NFL Fantasy Football 2009: The Top Five Rookie Running Backs to Draft

Lets face facts, the 2009 NFL Draft did not produce the bumper crop of elite running backs that that the 2008 draft did. This alone will make finding a fantasy gem among this year's runner's a more daunting task, and one which must balance a player's talents and attributes with the opportunity to play or start. Here then are the top 5 rookie running backs to go after in your 2009 Fantasy Draft.

Knowshon Moreno (Denver Broncos)

Moreno was the top running back drafted this season, going on the 12^th pick of the first round to the Denver Broncos. Though he lacks the breakaway speed of most elite runners, Moreno is at his best when he runs between the tackles. A highly aggressive runner, Knowshon can find the holes easily and cut through them. Denver is an ideal fit for this runner from Georgia, since the team has no top flight runners among its running back corp. Last season the Broncos ran by committee, with little regarded Peyton Hillis leading all runners with just 343 yards rushing. Look for Moreno to start right away, and pick up between 800-1000 yards rushing this season.

Chris Wells (Arizona Cardinals)

This big and highly athletic back from Ohio State may be the answer to Arizona's running woes. Last season the pass happy Cardinals were ranked 32^nd in the NFL in rushing with an anemic 73.6 yards per game, which means that Wells will get a fair shot at starting for the team. When he does touch the ball, Wells is an instinctive runner with great balance and speed, who can bull his way for additional yards after first contact. Look for Wells to get going good after the mid point of the season, and for him to gain 600-750 yards on the ground for the Cardinals this season. Also, look for him to get the ball near the goal line, adding to his fantasy football value.

Donald Brown (Indianapolis Colts)

Brown was the second back selected in the first round of the draft, going 27^th overall to the Colts. Turning pro after an impressive Junior year which saw him gain 2,083 yards on the ground for Connecticut, Brown is a tough, explosive runner with decent breakaway speed. With Addai injured last season, the Colts' running game was limited to just 79.6 yards per game (31^st in the NFL), which means that Brown will get a good look this pre-season. If he does well, look for him to pick up his fair share of carries next season, and pick up 500-600 yards rushing this season.

LeSean McCoy (Philadelphia Eagles)

McCoy is a quick, elusive runner with a nose for the end zone, who was selected as the 21^st pick of the 2^nd round in the 2009 Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles. With durability often a problem with Eagles running backs, McCoy should get a good shot as spelling Brian Westbrook this season. As a fantasy owner, you should take a "wait and see" approach with McCoy and unless he is in the midst of a good preseason when your Draft is held, you should only pick him up on waivers once the regular season is underway. At best, McCoy will get you 600-750 yards from scrimmage this season.

Shonn Green (New York Jets)

With both Thomas Jones and Leon Washington unhappy about their contract, and skipping voluntary offseason workouts, Shonn Green might be a good sleeper option this fantasy season. Green, a hard nose runner out of Iowa, is coming off a productive college season which saw him gain 1,850 yard yards rushing. Green though lacks explosiveness and is not a great blocker, both factors that may limit his productivity in 2009. Look for 500-600 yards from scrimmage for Shonn Green this fantasy season.

Statistical Sources:

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/stats

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/2009/draft/breakdowns/by_position/RB.html