Break Out Running Backs in 2009

NFL News - July 9, 2009 - Written by Ryan Smith

Last years draft class 0f 2008 saw 5 running backs taken with in the first 25 picks.  In 2009 the NFL draft saw only one running back taken with in the first 25 picks and that running back was Knowshon Moreno from Georgia University taken 12th overall by the Denver Broncos.  Knowshon Moreno will likely see lots of playing time for the Denver Broncos in his first year as an NFL running back but, its last years draft class i want to see play in 2009.  The Oakland Raiders first round draft pick last Year Darren Mcfadden, only started 5 games in his rookie season and, Dallas Cowboys First round draft pick Felix Jones only played in 6 games all year in his rookie season due to injury. 

Some running backs from the 2008 draft class did excel however.  Titans first round draft pick and 24th selection over all Chris Johnson proved he can get it done in the NFL.  Johnson rushed for over a 1,000 yards claimed 9 touchdowns all while splitting time with another running back.  Jonathan Stewart taken 13th overall in the 2008 NFL draft also played well his rookie year while splitting time with DeAngelo Williams of the Carolina Panthers.  Stewart rushed for just under 1,000 yards but, totaled 10 touchdowns in his rookie campaign.  Since this years draft only contained one well known back, we will have to rely on last years draft of running backs to excite us on the field. 

Felix Jones is with out a doubt the running back to watch in the 2009 season.  The Dallas Cowboys were able to see glimpses of the future in the first 5 games of 2008 when Felix Jones averaged over 8 yards a carry reliving starting RB Marion Barber.  Felix Jones ran for 266 yards on just 30 carries in the first 5 games of his rookie year and also returned a kick off for a touchdown.  Jones is healthy this season and is expected to have certain plays designed for his speed and cut back abilities.  Marion Barber is also excited to have Jones back, as Barber had his most successful year splitting carries with former Cowboy RB Julius Jones.  Felix Jones just might be the best running back in the 2008 draft class, we will soon find out in 2009.