Top Five Running Backs in the 2011 NFL Draft

Ranking the Running Backs in the 2011 NFL Draft

Randy Inman
Welcome to my first attempt at ranking the top five running backs for the 2011 NFL draft. I do wonder how many underclassmen running backs will declare for the draft if the 2011 NFL season is delayed. If you want to see my quarterback rankings click here and for my 2011 NFL mock draft then go here.

Yes I know you mock draft guys can get a little insulting. So I will answer a few questions first. No I don't do drugs, no I didn't ride the short bus in school and yes my parents were married and not related to each other. Now that that is out of the way please read on for my 2011 NFL draft running back rankings.

No.1. Mark Ingram- Alabama

The general consensus is that Mark Ingram is the best running back in the 2011 NFL draft. He may be a tad small to be a 20 carry a game back week in and week out but the NFL has gone to a running back by committee type approach on many teams. Ingram has shown enough receiving ability that it won't be a concern for him on the next level.

No2. Daniel Thomas- Kansas State

I love Thomas's size and strength and believe it will do him well in the NFL. Thomas is a good receiver and should be able to pass block decently when he goes pro. Daniel Thomas even is a decent passer and some team using the Wildcat could take advantage of that skill.

No.3. Mikel Leshoure- Illinois

Leshoure doesn't have elite NFL speed but he is fast enough. His nice size and power will earn him significant playing time and a spot on the top five running backs in the 2011 NFL Draft, list. Mikel Leshoure won't help the return game and hasn't proven to be a top receiver but he is still a capable runner.

No.4. Ryan Williams-Virginia Tech

Ryan Williams has good speed and while he may be a little small should flourish in a running back rotation for some team. Williams had an off year as far as rushing yards last season but he still can find the end zone. If Williams does come out for the 2011 draft he should go fairly early.

No.5. LaMichael James-Oregon

It is hard to see LaMichael James stock going any higher than it is right now so I expect him to declare. LaMichael James isn't a guy big enough to carry the load for a team but he will have his moments where his speed will make some big plays.

Published by Randy Inman

Im 42 years old, Grew up in North Carolina, and descend from the same family as the person the Inman Character was based on in the movie/book Cold Mountain. I run Footballdogz.com and love Pro Football. Spor...  View profile

2 Comments

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  • J.C. Grant11/30/2010

    LaMichael James is an exciting player. He doesn't need more than 10 or so carries a game to be a difference maker.

  • Joshua Huffman11/29/2010

    Nice List. I've never really thought that Mark Ingram would be that great of a NFL HB. Good, nothing special.

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