Premature 2010 Fantasy Player Rankings: Top 10 Running Backs
Running back rankings are based on PPR leagues (point per reception) that reward 1 pt. per 10 yards rushing/receiving and 6 pts. per TD rushing/receiving.
1. Chr
is Johnson
“Every Coaches Dream” has become just that. He’s shed the Slash n’ Dash moniker and stormed past the rest of the NFL as the clear cut best player in Fantasy Football. Johnson does it all and he does it all well. Usain speed, great vision, he runs through tackles, catches passes, plays every down, scores goal line TDs, scores 80 yard TDs, and has great hair. The only thing holding him back is a sweet name. “Christian Johnnywalker” would be a celebrity at this point.
2. Ra
y Rice
Not only has he excelled in the running game, but he’s also the Ravens receptions leader averaging over 5 a game. Ray Rice is a star. He’s become the focal point of the offense and he can score on any play, any down, at any point in the game. With McGahee potentially out the door next season, Ray could lead the NFL in touches. He’s also really nice guy, and he could lead in that category too.
3. Adrian Peterson
No one would question it if you took him first overall, but even as the most gifted running back in the NFL, Chester Taylor still spells him on third downs. Still, barring injury, or 60 some odd fumbles, he’s as good as there is as a lock to finish in the top 5. Also he’s become more of a factor in the passing game, and that 2,000 yard season could happen any year now.
4. Ma
urice Jones-Drew
The human bowling ball always picks up his spare. If he doesn’t hit 100 yards in a game, he’ll find the end zone. If he doesn’t get 20 carries, he’ll catch 5 passes. MJD is as consistent as they come, and it won’t change next season. His line is young and likely to improve. As an every down back who catches passes and gets the goal line work, Maurice is fantasy gold.
5. St
even Jackson
As a superstar on a bad team, you can’t help but feel like he’s wasting his talent as he approaches 30. Then you look at his numbers and realize, he’s actually still getting it done. Countless 100 yard efforts, a huge factor in the passing game, third down back, goal line back, and he’s really just 26. Sure, the herniated disc is of mild concern, but he’s looked fresh as ever otherwise. The off-season should take care of any lingering injuries, and the miserable Rams can only get better from here… I think.
6. Fra
nk Gore
The new west coast style offense has cut into Gore’s carries of late, but they find ways to get him the ball. Gore can haul in 7 passes a game with ease. The Niners could be contenders next year and Gore will be a major reason why. He’s a homerun threat, a goal line back, and a receptions monster.
7. DeA
ngelo Williams
D-Will is an elite talent that can score from anywhere on the field. When he gets his 20 touches, he goes over 100 yards. He’s also catching passes this year. His touchdowns are down thanks to a tough schedule and miserable quarterback play, but that position should be dealt with in the off-season. DeAngelo is just entering his prime and he’ll be the Panthers go to guy for years to come.
8. Mi
chael Turner
Turner scored at least one TD in a span of 7 games before his injury. He’s not a factor in the passing game, but his nose for the goal line and his 20 carries a game keep him in the top 10 for 2010. A healthy Matt Ryan will give Turner plenty of scoring opportunities.
9. 
Rashard Mendenhall
The new face of the coveted Pittsburgh Steelers running back position. The Steelers will undoubtedly bounce back next season with their hard nosed running game and Mendenhall will be a huge benefactor. Rashard is young and talented and secure of a job. He’ll likely be spelled on third downs, but he’ll be the focal point of the running game and a force in the red zone.
10. 
Jamaal Charles
If Kansas City doesn’t address this position next year early in the draft, Charles belongs right near the top 10. He’s only started 6 games, and points-wise, he’s already in the top 20 among running backs. Even if they do bring in some competition, it’s hard to see them limiting Charles. He’s just been too good. He’s averaging 5.2 ypc and he’s been a major factor in the passing game. He’s shifty and fast, yet strong for his size. “I’m a physical player and I can run the ball like Chris Johnson does,” says Charles. It’s hard to disagree at this point. Sign me up.
Just missed the cut, and why:
Ronnie Brown – Depends on the recovery. Ricky Williams.
Thomas Jones - Age. Shonn Green. Leon Washington…And if you disagree, you can have him.
Joseph Addai – Scoring TDs but only averaging 3.7 ypc. Donald Brown will be a factor.
Cedric Benson – Larry Johnson could work his way in. Non factor in passing game
Knowshon Moreno - Could be the next star, but still unproven.
Ladainian Tomlinson – The burst is gone. Rarely involved in passing game.
Brian Westbrook – LeSean McCoy, Concussions jeopardizing career.
