NFC rankings: running backs

Posted: June 14, 2008
Sporting News correspondents


More: AFC running back rankings

In the latest installment of NFL offseason position rankings, SN's correspondents break down the running backs in the NFC.


1. VIKINGS: They have the best 1-2 punch in the league with Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor. Peterson has a rare blend of speed and power and freezes defenders with his moves. Taylor is less explosive but runs just as hard.

2. EAGLES: Brian Westbrook is the NFL's most dangerous all-around back. He's almost unstoppable in the open field. Correll Buckhalter is a reliable power runner, and newcomer Lorenzo Booker is a pass-catching threat.

3. REDSKINS: Clinton Portis can still break open a game on any carry. Ladell Betts hits the holes quickly, has good acceleration and is an excellent receiver. Fullback Mike Sellers is a powerful blocker and capable short-yardage back.

4. GIANTS: Few teams can match the depth in the Giants' backfield. Brandon Jacobs is a load but must become more durable. Derrick Ward averaged 4.8 yards per carry in 2007, and Ahmad Bradshaw has the speed to become a star.

5. COWBOYS: Marion Barber will get his shot to start. He's a battering ram who can get the tough yards and close out games. The team hopes rookie Felix Jones will provide the big-play threat it lacked the past couple of years.

6. RAMS Steven Jackson has an imposing blend of speed, power and pass-catching ability, but durability was a problem in 2007. Antonio Pittman and Brian Leonard haven't established themselves as viable options.

7. 49ERS: Frank Gore is a tough runner between the tackles and has the receiving skills to thrive in new coordinator Mike Martz's offense. Michael Robinson and DeShaun Foster are solid backups with good receiving skills.

8. FALCONS Not only can newcomer Michael Turner pound defenses with his 237-pound body, but he has big-play speed. Jerious Norwood also has breakaway ability, and Ovie Mughelli is a bruising lead blocker.

9. PACKERS: Ryan Grant was a revelation in his First year as a starter. He's big, moves the pile and is a home run threat. Brandon Jackson is shifty and can churn out yards between the tackles. DeShawn Wynn must mature fast.

10. BUCCANEERS: Even without Cadillac Williams, who will spend most of '08 rehabbing his knee, this is a strong unit. Earnest Graham is a workhorse, and Warrick Dunn and Michael Bennett provide a change of pace.

11. CARDINALS: Edgerrin James still can squeeze 5 yards out of nothing, but he doesn't provide many big plays. Backup Marcel Shipp is a tough inside runner but lacks speed.

12. PANTHERS: With rookie Jonathan Stewart's strength inside and DeAngelo Williams' speed outside, the Panthers appear to have a nice combination. But Stewart is coming off toe surgery and Williams still has to prove himself.

13. SAINTS: Reggie Bush, who averaged 3.7 yards per carry and dropped too many passes in '08, must prove himself all over again. Deuce McAllister is coming off surgery on both knees. Pierre Thomas has proved he can fill in effectively -- at least for a short stretch.

14. SEAHAWKS: They made a lot of changes, but it's hard to say they'll be better. Julius Jones hits the hole hard but averaged 3.6 yards for Dallas in '07. T.J. Duckett has good size.

15. BEARS: Cedric Benson's job is in jeopardy after he was arrested twice this spring. If Benson goes, rookie Matt Forte likely will start, with Adrian Peterson as the backup.

16. LIONS: Third-round pick Kevin Smith likely will start, and his one-cut style fits the team's new zone-blocking scheme. Tatum Bell is the biggest name among the backups.