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Traditionally, rookie running backs are usually able to contribute more quickly than their counterparts at most other positions. Their physical skills just seem to translate quickly into NFL success, and they are ready to be put on the field in some way almost immediately at the start of their career. So it is generally easier to evaluate the success than an NFL RB might have as opposed to, say, quarterbacks.

The first RB off the board was Knowshon Moreno, taken 12th by the Denver Broncos. He is a very solid back, with explosion and shiftiness out of the backfield. He was a very productive runner for Georgia, and appears to have all the tools to be a good NFL RB whenever he gets the chance to play. The Broncos backfield is plenty crowded now, and Josh McDaniels showed in New England that he is not afraid to spread the ball around to keep defenses honest. So Moreno should be productive when he does get the ball, but it's uncertain if he will get consistent touches as a rookie.

The next running back selected was Donald Brown out of Connecticut, who was taken 27th by the Indianapolis Colts. He is a very versatile back that can do many things well. It is uncertain how many carries he will get with Joseph Addai in the backfield, but he should put up very efficient numbers playing in that offense. He is an explosive runner, and he can catch the ball out of the backfield, which will make him an additional threat for Peyton Manning. He could be the most productive running back in the rookie class, especially if Joseph Addai gets banged up or if they really try to limit his workload. After being an extremely productive college runner he should continue that in the NFL.

The third round running back taken was Chris Wells out of Ohio St., who was taken by the Arizona Cardinals. He is a strong, physcial back, that also has some breakaway ability with his 4.5 speed. While the Cardinals are more of a passing offense, Wells should battle Tim Hightower to get the majority of the touches, and should especially be able to make a living in the red zone as a rookie. The Cardinals like to run the ball when they get inside the 10, and that will benefit Wells, who is a solid short yardage runner.

The only 2nd round RB was LeSean McCoy, taken by the Philadelphia Eagles. He should fit in great in that offense, as his game is very similar to Brian Westbrook's. He is explosive and very versatile. He can catch the ball well out of the backfield, and he is a good runner. He will be a nice weapon to have along with Westbrook, and should be very productive.

When looking at the rookie RBs, nobody jumps out as being a superstar in the mold of Adrian Peterson or LaDainian Tomlinson, but there appears to be a lot of solid running backs that should be able to contribute at the pro level, both as rookies and over the long-term. How productive they are will likely depend on their usage, and how the teams utilize their abilities and skills. It will be interesting to see them grow and develop.

Learn more about this author, Juan Leer.
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