Offseason Preview: Running Backs

Moving ahead with our offseason preview, we are up to the running back position. Obviously, we have Steven Jackson in the fold already, but it’s no secret that the depth behind SJ39 leaves plenty to be desired. Now, as much as I would love to see the Rams sign a top-notch guy, I highly doubt that it would be economically feasible. I think the move here is for the Rams to look for veteran who is reasonably priced and who can catch the ball and spell Steven, and then use the draft to get his heir-apparent either this season or next. Here is the list I came up with, and although these aren’t some of the top names that could be available, they are the guys who are the right fit for us right now.

Darren Sproles – Once again, I like to start it off with my number one choice. Sproles would be a perfect fit here for several reasons: First, he is small and quick, a perfect compliment to SJ39. Second, he is an excellent receiver out of the backfield, which is exactly what we need. Third, he should be reasonably priced and he isn’t the kind of back that needs a ton of touches in a game. Finally, he is exceptional in the return game, which means he gives us a boost in more than one position. I’ve already heard Sproles’ name mentioned in connection with the Rams, so keep a close watch on him in the coming months.

Leon Washington – I admit that the chances of taking Washington out of Seattle are slim, but I would love to have him here in St. Louis. We should have gotten him last offseason, but that’s a different story. Washington is a game-breaking talent in the return game, and he can be effective out of the backfield when given the chance.

Pierre Thomas – Thomas really fell off the map this season thanks to some injury troubles, but that could be a blessing in disguise for a team like St. Louis. The Saints are rich at the running back position with Chris Ivory and Reggie Bush, so they don’t need to keep Thomas in the fold. He has proven to be capable of being a top guy when healthy, and a limited workload behind Jackson could spell a rejuvenation for the former Fighting Illini back.

Ahmad Bradshaw – We know Spags loves ex-Giants, and New York was frustrated by his lack of ball-security this season. I think he would be a nice fit here despite those problems because of the talent he brings to the table, but I doubt he gets out of New York.