Top three running backs in 2011 NFL draft

Everyone is looking for the next Barry Sanders, Walter Payton, or Adrian Peterson to make an immediate impact on the field (and even off the field). Drafting a running back can make or break a franchise, just look at Minnesota when Peterson was brought to the team he really opened things up for the passing game and he became a solid part as well. A good solid running back can put stability in the back field, sure up the passing attack and elevate a team in the standings. The key is to find the back that is suitable for the system that you are running. Look at Indianapolis, when they drafted Joseph Addai he became a viable threat for them not just rushing the ball, but also a solid threat for receiving out of the back field. This solidified the Colts as a championship contender and ultimately they became Super Bowl champions. It is imperative if you are willing to gamble on a franchise back you must do your homework stability is key, wear and tear on the body while in college could hurt draft status, also solid in the running game but also a good blocker to protect the quarterback. So there is much to go on when drafting a key piece of the offensive puzzle (just like most positions), and sometimes finding a player late in the draft could be a sweet surprise that is unexpected. Here we want to look at the top three running backs in this year’s NFL draft…

1. Mark Ingram- Alabama Crimson Tide

Ingram is a physical back, his speed is not impressive but his heart and his power are. Ingram has deep roots into the NFL as his father played for many seasons but he is looking to make a name for himself just as he did in Alabama becoming a Heisman trophy winner. He does put you in mind of another former SEC rusher, Emmitt Smith, and whoever drafts Ingram will hope the same success will follow. Ingram’s strengths are his power and his will to win, his weaknesses could be about his durability as he has been injured (knee issues) and he is not a homerun threat in the NFL.

2. Mikel Leshoure- Illinois Fightin’ Illini

Leshoure is a good mix of speed and power, with good pass catching skills, he has good size he could very well be the break out back in this draft class. Leshoure, has had many unfair comparisons with another Illinois running back, Rashard Mendenhall, which are unfair as both are different kinds of runners. Leshoure is talented and can make a big splash in the NFL, he reminds me of a LeSean McCoy type who can catch the ball out of the back field and can run away from defenders. Leshoure’s strengths his maturity and his NFL ready size, his weaknesses could be adjustment as a traditional running back, blocking out of the backfield and improving his running style (he runs high more danger to injury).

> Check out the great selection of NFL apparel & jerseys as well as NFL Fatheads and more!

3. Ryan Williams- Virginia Tech Hokies

Williams has good power and can “out quick you” he has incredible cut back ability and likes to hit people. Williams didn’t have the best offensive line while at VT but he made the most of his chances when he got them. He puts you in mind of a Steven Jackson as he uses power to make the big plays. His strengths fighting for his yards (perseverance) and purpose running (yards after contact), his weaknesses could be his durability as he has been injured and his maturity on and off the field.

By Sam Adams
Pro Football Fans Staff Writer