Quote:Michael Turner (RB)-Atlanta Falcons: Turner is on borrowed time because he has been a workhorse running back since signing with the Falcons in 2008 and is 30-years-old, which is ancient for running backs. He led the NFL in rushing attempts twice (2008 and 2010) and was second in 2011. His 1,189 carries were the most in the NFL during his first four seasons in Atlanta. Turner’s workload has been reduced to 14 carries a game this year. As a consequence, he is projected to fall short of 1,000 rushing yards after averaging slightly over 1,400 rushing yards per year with the Falcons. Since only eleven running backs have hit the 1,000-yard rushing mark at 31-years-old, Atlanta may be more comfortable having Turner count $2 million in dead money on the cap than paying him $5.5 million next year.

Quote:2013 NFL Free Agent Running Backs
By: Roshan Bhagat

Reggie Bush (MIA) Ð After several tumultuous years in the NFL, Reggie Bush will again be at the top of his class-in free agency. Though a stretch from the elite back many thought he'd become, Bush has developed into the best offensive weapon for the Dolphins as a runner that has now shown the capabilities of running between the tackles and adding tremendous value as an outlet out of the backfield. There has no knowledge of extension talks between the two sides, so the expected plays in the offseason will be for Reggie to attempt to test the market and the Dolphins considering the franchise tag.

Rashard Mendenhall (PIT) Ð Averaging nearly 1300 yards from scrimmage and 10 touchdowns per season over the last three, Mendenhall's interest to the Steelers (and on the market) will depend on how he returns to the field after tearing an ACL in January. The combination of Isaac Redman and Jonathan Dwyer has provided the Steelers with a meager 2.6 yards per carry through 2 games and doesn't figure to be the long-term solution at the position, which suggests the two parties here will work to determine fair compensation in the offseason. Coming off an injury, an incentive-laden or short-term guaranteed contract are in play.

Peyton Hillis (KC) Ð The Chiefs had a plan in mind to pound defenses with two backs whose running styles could not be more different. The combination of Hillis and Charles hasn't worked quite as they had imagined, but former Madden cover has been an effective runner for them out of the backfield. Depending on how the rest of the season plays out, splitting carries and salary will be reevaluated by the men upstairs.

Felix Jones (DAL) Ð Drafted as a Jerry Jones favorite and a dangerous weapon on special teams and offense, Felix Jones has become unproductive on both units and has a questionable future in Dallas with DeMarco Murray emerging as one of the league's best backs. In a change of scenery, perhaps the speed back can rekindle some of his explosiveness and reemerge elsewhere. In a weak free agent class, perhaps one of these signings could pan out with the right fit.

Shonn Greene (NYJ) Ð After a couple strong games to close his rookie season, Shonn Greene has been a solid back for the Jets-nothing more, nothing less. As a strong between-the-tackles runner, he complements a strong defense and a ball control offense, but lacks the explosiveness to jump into that next tier of backs. With little else behind him and a weak free agent class, the Jets should show interest in returning Greene at the season's conclusion.

Danny Woodhead (NE) Ð As a kick returner and passing down running back, Danny Woodhead has a niche that will draw interest. If Shane Vereen plays well, his journey around the league will have to continue.

Bernard Scott (CIN) Ð For several years now, the Bengals have been interested in finding more touches for their 6th round pick from Abilene Christian in 2009. Though he'll still serve in a primary back-up role to BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Scott will have an opportunity to showcase his talent when he returns from injury, if not for the Bengals, then for the rest of the league.

(10-26-2012 04:37 PM)Anomaly Wrote:  Here are the "headline" free agent RBs, but I have a feeling we would draft a RB before we signed one.

http://www.footballsfuture.com/2013/fa/rb.html

(10-26-2012 11:30 PM)phocis850 Wrote:  What is wrong with Smith? Every time he's ran he has shown he can hit the hole hard.