Mid-Round RB: Who Ya Want?

[Roy P]

If we are to believe John McClain, we won't be drafting a RB until the 3rd round. While I'd be fine with Shonn Greene or Andre Brown, I imagine that they both will be off the board before our pick #77.

Let me be clear, I'm looking for a guy to move the sticks on third and short by running between the tackles. Rashad Jennings appears that he'd be able to do that, but I have too many questions about his character or work ethic. He is a guy who may eat himself out of job and become a 265lbs wasted pick. Apparently, his older brothers have had to mentor him into becoming more mature and serious about football. I'm concerned that he might not be a "self-starter" and may need constant supervision.

While Peeman has really great measurables, I'll admit that I was very impressed by his Combine, there was not much production from him. There is the question of his small hands and other negatives that I won't go into.

Therefore, I'm left with Javarris Williams. He may be the best north-south runner after Andre Brown. He has a low center of gravity and can push a pile and break tackles. I won't go on record saying he is an every down back, because I'm not sure how well he can run on the edges, he doesn't have break-away speed, and won't make you think of Barry Sanders with his elusiveness. However, for a late round pick who can complement Steve Slaton, this guy can carry a load.

Want some production as proof?
He leaves the university ranking second in school history with 849 carries, 4,329 rushing yards and 5,117 all-purpose yards. He ranks third in school annals in scoring with 264 points and 44 total touchdowns, as his 42 touchdowns rushing set a TSU all-time mark.

Only two other players ever rushed for more than 1,000 yards in a season for the Tigers, and Williams accomplished that feat three times. He is also the only player to lead the team in rushing four times in his career, as he owns four of the top seven spots on Tennessee State's single-season record list for rushing yardage.