Running back is a position where players breakout every year. Last year backs such as Michael Turner, Pierre Thomas and Derrick Ward brokeout and became names that were known by the common fan. Here are my predictions for running backs who will breakout this year and possibly make their first Pro Bowl.
Felix Jones Cowboys: Before his season ending injury, Jones showed the potential that could make him one of the game's most explosive backs. Now that Jones is healthy and the lack of depth in the Cowboys receiving corps, look for Jones to get lots of carries this year and considering that he will be doing kickoffs as well don't be surprised if he has over 2000 total yards.
Kevin Smith Lions: Smith had a very good rookie season but the thing that sticks out the most is that as the season went on and he earned more carries, he played better. Even though he played behind one of the worst offensive lines in the league, Smith still managed to have 938 yards and 8 touchdowns. Regardless of who starts at quarterback between Matthew Stafford and Daunte Culpepper, Smith should face less eight man fronts and improve on his rookie totals. Don't be surprised if he runs for over 1100 yards this year.
Ray Rice Ravens: Even though the Ravens have Willis McGahee, there is a very good chance that Rice will be the starting running back when the season starts. Rice has fresh legs and proved during his time at Rutgers that he is a very durable back. Now that Derrick Mason has retired, the Ravens will be looking to run more on offense and Rice who is also a good receiver out of the backfield, should get the majority of those carries. It wouldn't be surprising if Rice runs for over 1,000 yards this year.
Jerious Norwood Falcons: Considering he averages 5.8 yards a carry for his career, it's hard to believe the Falcons don't get Norwood the ball more. Even though the Falcons have Michael Turner ahead of Norwood, he should get lots of playing time this year. Turner had over 370 carries last year and most backs who have that heavy a workload either decline or get hurt the next year. Just ask Shaun Alexander or Larry Johnson. Considering that, Norwood should get plenty of opportunities this year and if he is as impressive as he has been with his chances so far, he should be fun to watch.
Jamaal Charles Chiefs: Charles is in a situation very similar to Norwood's. Both are very explosive and should get a lot of playing time this year as they are both behind backs who have had heavy workloads. In Charles' case, it is Larry Johnson who while he has still been productive, hasn't been the same since his 2006 season where he had 416 carries. With Todd Haley coming in as the new coach, the Chiefs will also be looking to pass the ball more and Charles is a better receiver out of the backfield. While Charles won't get tons of touches, don't be surprised if he breaks some highlight reel runs and has over 1000 total yards.
Fred Jackson Bills: Most fans don't know who Jackson is, but he is one of the league's best kept secrets. He is one of the best backup running backs in the league and is also a very good receiver out of the backfield. Due to Marshawn Lynch's three game suspension to start the season, Jackson should get lots of carries and will be able to showcase his skills in a starter's role. While the starting gig won't last the whole season, look for Jackson to still get 10-12 touches a game even when he resorts back to being Lynch's backup.
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