Fantasy Running Back Report - Part I

The preseason has wrapped up and we have seen many running back battles come to end and many just beginning. Let's take a look at some of the battles. 1. Miami Dolphins - Ricky Williams vs. Ronnie Brown Williams is likely to start, but the question is for how long and how valuable will he be. The Dolphins are being very careful with Brown, who saw his first preseason action going 47 yards and scoring 1 TD, but this is expected for a player coming off a knee injury. We see Williams giving you decent value for the first 3-4 games, but see him going down with some injury early on. The fact is he hasn't played a full NFL season since 2003, though in 2004 he played 12 games. His desire is a definite question, but the fact is his body will not take the hits of a full NFL season. Williams is a mirage while Ronnie Brown is for real. Expect Brown to be a top back for the second half, just in time for the Fantasy Football playoffs. Even if Williams remains healthy Brown will out gain him in total yardage and is much more valuable in PPR leagues. One thought is if you drafted Williams trade him after the first or second week, especially if he does well. On the other hand, if Brown has the expected slow start, make an offer for him at a cheap price. Brown will win this battle hands down by the end of the season and could give you a very good playoff running back. Winner: Ronnie Brown 2. Houston Texans - Steve Slaton vs. Ahman Green vs. Chris Taylor Ahman Green agreed to restructure his contract Wednesday, Aug. 27. Green reduced his base salary in 2008 from $3.8 million to $1.8 million, freeing up $2 million in salary cap money. He will be able to make up $3 million in per-game bonuses, receiving $200,000 for every game he is active after the team's season opener. Yes, this is good news for Green owners, but not enough to be more valuable than the rookie Steve Slaton. Why? Upside. You know what you are getting with Green. Maybe a couple good starts, but likely split time and injury problems. Slaton on the other hand could be the next Dominick Davis (remember him?). We are not saying he will, but he could be. He at least will be a solid back if given a chance, we have seen that in training camp and preseason. In college he rushed for 1836 yds and 25 TDs as a Junior for West Virginia. In 2006 he finished 4th in the 2006 Heisman Trophy race after rushing for 1,744 yards on 248 carries with 16 touchdowns. Not exactly a small-time back. Winner: Steve Slaton Sin City Scout