Blue Chips
Cream of the crop heading into the post-season. This group combines both NFL measurables and significant collegiate success that have them on the path to being the top RBs selected in the 2006 draft.

Reggie Bush (Southern California - 3JR) 5’11” 200 4.45 - Career stats

2005 Honors: PAC-10 1st Team All-Conference, AFCA 1st Team All-American, Walter Camp 1st Team All-American, AP 1st Team All-American, Doak Walker Award winner, Walter Camp Player of the Year, AP Player of the Year, Heisman Trophy winner

Strengths: One of the most electrifying college players ever. Dynamic playmaker as a runner, receiver, and returner. Outstanding agility and quickness gets him through traffic, and then has the breakaway speed to take any touch the length of the field. He reportedly ran sub-4.40 times for the USC staff in the spring. Probably an itchy trigger finder, but no doubt he has elite speed. Tremendous receiver both out of the backfield and lining up split to the outside running conventional routes. Except for an ill-advised lateral attempt in the Rose Bowl that will haunt him for years, he has never fumbled on offense in his college career (one fumble on a punt return).

Weaknesses: He has been surrounded by incredible talent his whole career on one of the greatest three-year runs ever by a college team. In particular, the presence of 3JR RB LenDale White precluded Bush from demonstrating he can find the same success needing to run inside more and proving he can handle carrying the load throughout a season. I have a feeling his height, weight, and speed may come in less than advertised, though it shouldn’t adversely impact his draft status at all.

Outlook: It’s hard to find any angle to imagine him ending up a bust. He is both an elite athlete and an elite football player. He will be the first player selected on April 29th.

Laurence Maroney (Minnesota - 3JR) 5’11” 210 4.51 - Career stats

2005 Honors: Big Ten 1st Team All-Conference, Walter Camp 2nd Team All-American, AP 3rd Team All-American

Strengths: Classic one-cut runner who plants and explodes through the hole. Brings a very complete running game. Can work with good power and lean between the tackles, but has the vision and body control to bounce outside and hit the home run, despite apparently lacking elite timed speed. Elusiveness and intuition allow him to elude the big hits when tackled. Great ball security.

Weaknesses: Needs work in passing game, as a receiver and blocker. He can take a screen or a dump pass and turn it up field, but he is not fluid or crisp in running routes and catching the ball in a pattern. Played in explosive offense behind quality offensive line, which leads to concerns about production being a product of the system.

Outlook: Declared underclassman. He has been a superstar since his freshman season. In 2003 and 2004, he combined with former teammate, Marion Barber III, to be the only duo in NCAA history to run for 1,000 yards in consecutive seasons. The success of Barber in the NFL should strengthen the perception of Maroney, as Maroney was recognized as the superior back when the two played together. Finally got a chance to be featured in 2005 and took off strong. He bulked up prior to the season, but lost no quickness or speed. A lingering ankle injury slowed him down at the end of the season. While he is consistently ranked as a top five RB, many draft pundits seem lukewarm on his potential, as far as being a superstar. I believe it is tremendous. Maroney reminds me of Shaun Alexander in how effortlessly he appears to run the ball and in how he knows how to avoid the big hit, never seeming to take a lot of punishment on most tackles.

LenDale White (Southern California - 3JR) 6’2” 235 4.51 - Career stats

2005 Honors: PAC-10 2nd Team All-Conference, AP 3rd Team All-American

Strengths: Excellent physical tools with ideal measurables to be a workhorse at the next level. Bruising back who runs over people, you cannot arm-tackle him, but also has quick feet as he moves through the line and a little shake to make defenders miss in the open field. Very good speed for a big runner and decent hands.

Weaknesses: Undeclared underclassmen as of yet. Lack of opportunity to showcase himself in an all-star game (as he is an underclassman) is an inconvenience for scouts and GM’s, especially considering he has never had a feature opportunity due to the talent he has played with.

Outlook: Undeclared underclassman. He is a hammer with speed, a la Jamal Lewis. More popular players have overshadowed USC’s all-time rushing touchdown leader during his collegiate career, but NFL teams won’t under appreciate him. White outshined Reggie Bush and Matt Leinart in the Rose Bowl, which gives him visibility and momentum heading into the draft, making it more likely he’ll declare. With impressive workouts, he should emerge as a first round pick.

DeAngelo Williams (Memphis - 4SR) 5’9” 209 4.53 - Career stats

2005 Honors: C-USA 1st Team All-Conference, C-USA Offensive Player of the Year, AFCA 1st Team All-American, Walter Camp 1st Team All-American, AP 2nd Team All-American

Strengths: The most prolific yard-producer in NCAA history, he finished with a record 7,568 all-purpose yards. Also fourth all-time in rushing yards and had an NCAA-record 34 100-yard games. Compact and well built, he can run with surprising power, but thrives best as a slasher, using his quickness to be elusive in space. Very good receiver and elite return skills. His intangibles are outstanding. Raised in a poor and dangerous area, he spurned becoming involved in gangs and made himself a blue chip prospect. As one of the most highly regarded recruits in Memphis history, he handled the burden of expectations with one record-breaking season after another, and helping lead the Tigers program back to respectability, without the benefit of an elite supporting cast.

Weaknesses: Lacks ideal size, although he has a well-defined body. Has not proved himself against much elite competition in a mid-major with a usually weak preseason schedule and lower-tier bowl games. This perception, as well as an overall question of his toughness, was highlighted in his decision not to face Tennessee this year due to a sore ankle. Durability a bit of a concern, he has had some type of injury problem each year of his four years.

Outlook: Expected to declare as an underclassman last year, but he fractured his right fibula in the GMAC Bowl. Returned to claim more records and provide an outstanding encore that helped his draft stock, as he carried the team through a challenging season with the loss of the their top two quarterbacks in the first three games. Despite his accomplishments and talent, his measurables are a little less than desired. Still widely regarded by draft pundits as the top senior RB prospect, but even with impressive workouts, could fall as far as being the fourth RB drafted, depending on the underclassmen that declare. Reminiscent of Brain Westbrook in his measurables, skills, and multi-faceted game, as well as not playing in a marquee program. However, his record-breaking career has not left him overlooked.

Possible Day One
This group has the potential to be Day One picks, but they have concerns in one or more areas regarding measurables, durability, or character. Their collegiate achievement and/or measurables are not enough at this point to guarantee an early pick. They will have to impress teams in their all-star weeks and/or at the combine or in individual workouts to have their name called the first day of the draft.

Maurice Drew (UCLA - 3JR) 5’8” 205 4.41 - Career stats

2005 Honors: PAC-10 2nd Team All-Conference (as RB, 1st Team punt returner), Walter Camp 1st Team All-American (kick returner), AP 1st Team All-American

Strengths: Outstanding multi-talented player whose tremendous speed and quickness lead to big plays on offense and special teams, where he is an elite return man. Although undersized, he is built well, packing surprising power and bringing excellent leg drive. Amazing quickness and elite breakaway speed.

Weaknesses: Lacks ideal size. Durability became a bit of an issue his final season, as he saw his heaviest workload.

Outlook: Declared underclassman. If it weren’t for Reggie Bush, everyone would be talking about Drew being the most electrifying player in the country. In addition to his skills running and receiving at RB, he is a blur as a return man, the Dante Hall of college the last three years. He returned 3 punts for TDs this season (on just 15 attempts), setting a PAC-10 record, and had another 65-yard TD punt return against Washington called back on a penalty. He hasn’t been returning kicks this year, but he has 2 kick returns for a TD in his career, as well. Overall, UCLA’s all-time leader in all-purpose yards has scored on a play of 40 yards or more 16 times in his career. Lesser recognition in the media won’t effect how scouts view the dynamic player. He is a bit short, but solidly built. He should be a Day One pick, but how early could depend on where his measurables truly show up as.

Michael Bush (Louisville - 3JR) 6’3” 250 4.56 - Career stats

2005 Honors: Big East 1st Team All-Conference

Strengths: Bruising runner who pounds the ball between the tackles with good speed and great athleticism for a big back. Scoring machine.

Weaknesses: While still an incredible athlete, the bulk he has added the last few years has left him without elite quickness and breakaway speed.

Outlook: Undeclared underclassman, as of yet. Outstanding all-around football talent started out a “Slash”, as he came in as a high school legend on both sides of the ball in Kentucky. Found a permanent home at RB in 2004 in one of the most talented backfields in the country, then had the feature role in 2005. A sprained left foot cost him two games, breaking a string of eight multi-TD games. He missed two games due to the foot, and then had another 3-TD game before getting shut out by VaTech in the Gator Bowl. The former stud prep QB is a super-sized back in the Greg Jones and Brandon Jacobs mode, but with more athleticism and very good hands. He’ll be a tremendously intriguing prospect if he declares early.

Jerome Harrison (Washington State - 4SR) 5’9” 199 4.50 - Career stats

2005 Honors: PAC-10 1st Team All-Conference, Walter Camp 2nd Team All-American, AP 1st Team All-American

Strengths: Consistently productive in breakout senior campaign. He was the only NCAA D-IA RB with 100 yards rushing in every game this season, setting a PAC-10 record with 100-plus yards in 14 straight games (dating back to last season), on his way to a school-record 1,900 yards rushing. Home run hitter with nose for the end zone, he had three TD runs over 50 yards and had a school-record 17 total touchdowns. Demonstrated he can carry the load as a feature back.

Weaknesses: Lacks size, bulk, and lower body strength. He needs to do a better job of hanging on to the ball, as fumbling has been a problem for him.

Outlook: Where his speed tests out will have a big impact on his draft position, because he has breakaway speed on the field, but all the information out there indicates he lacks elite speed as far as 40 time. A comparison to J.J. Arrington, whose PAC-10 record of 100-plus yard games he broke, works well. Both are a bit undersized and were overlooked before emerging as top senior prospects after incredible seasons.

Day Two
Weaknesses overshadow the strengths enough that these guys could miss being the early picks they could be. Upside is limited by one or more of measurables, accomplishments, durability, or character. All-star games and workouts performances could help some move into Day One, or fall to be undrafted free agents.

Joseph Addai (LSU - 5SR) 5’11” 210 4.44 - Career stats:

2005 Honors: None

Strengths: Versatile all-purpose back with excellent speed. Outstanding in the passing game, giving him tremendous potential to contribute immediately at the next level. An excellent receiver and polished blocker who can pick up the blitz. His hands and route running are strong enough that he has worked at wide receiver, at times, due to the crowded RB situation.

Weaknesses: Light resume. Primarily used as a third down back most of his career, he has not demonstrated he can handle carrying the load. Prone to untimely injuries. He has good vision, but can be indecisive in hitting the hole, doing too much dancing behind the line.

Outlook: Many draft prognosticators seem to be in love with him, but I don’t see it at this point. He is a nice prospect, but doesn’t seem the lock to have feature back potential that a team is looking for at RB in the first two rounds. Both times he has finally gotten a shot to be The Man, injuries have been a problem. In 2003, a knee injury allowed Justin Vincent to step in and take over. In 2005, Alley Broussard was set to be the workhorse again, before a preseason injury gave Addai an opportunity he gave away after just six games, due to a concussion and lingering ankle injury. However, an invite to Senior Bowl seems indicative NFL teams feel strongly about him. Finished well with a huge game in the Peach Bowl, but I think he needs to blow scouts and GMs away at Senior Bowl week and in workouts to be a Day One pick.

Brian Calhoun (Wisconsin - 4JR) 5’9” 194 4.41 - Career stats

2005 Honors: Big Ten 1st Team All-Conference, AP 2nd Team All-American

Strengths: Strong burst at the snap and elite speed to hit the home run when he gets to the second level. Surprising power for his size keeps him in goal-line packages.

Weaknesses: Undersized to be a feature back at the next level, better suited physically for change of pace role. Possible “product of the system”, as Wisconsin has had other successful RBs recently that failed to translate their success at the next level.

Outlook: Undeclared underclassman. Although Badgers running game has been plug-and-produce under HC Barry Alvarez, the Colorado transfer’s debut this year was still extremely impressive. Despite the fact he plays for a coach who historically doesn’t utilize his RBs in the passing game, Calhoun’s receiving talents were too much to not force Alvarez to change his ways. His talent as a receiver led to his former HC, Gary Barnett, asking him to consider a position change to WR (which contributed to his decision to leave Colorado). He was a collegiate Marshall Faulk in 2005, an explosive playmaker and TD-machine on the ground and through the air. Despite being undersized for a feature back (which Faulk also is, by the way), he demonstrated some incredible durability for as much as they used him. While Calhoun has not made up his mind about leaving early, with his incredible year and Barry Alvarez’s departure from coaching, it is easy to see him declaring and shaking up the rankings quiet a bit. He’ll need to overcome concerns about his size with strong workouts, particularly in demonstrating elite speed, to be a Day One pick, but I’m very high on his skills and potential.

Jerious Norwood (Mississippi State - 4SR) 6’0” 204 4.41 - Career stats

2005 Honors: SEC 2nd Team All-Conference

Strengths: Speed is his biggest asset; he is a home run threat and can run away from defenders when he gets through the line of scrimmage. Extremely durable, never missed a college game. Could add value as a returner.

Weaknesses: Needs to add some bulk, but has the frame to do it.

Outlook: Consistently productive on poor Bulldog teams that won only four SEC games in his collegiate career. Demonstrated the ability to be a workhorse back, but needs to add bulk and refine his skills in the passing game to get the opportunity at the next level. If his speed is timed out as expected, he’ll be a fast-riser after the Combine.

DonTrell Moore (New Mexico - 5SR) 5’10” 212 4.53 - Career stats:

2005 Honors: MWC 1st Team All-Conference, MWC Offensive Player of the Year

Strengths: Technically a very sound runner, with good footwork, pad level and forward lean. He has been the a workhorse back for four years, becoming the most prolific runner in school and Mountain West Conference history, as well as one of the most productive in NCAA history (only the seventh player in D-IA to run for 1,000 yards in four consecutive seasons). Displayed tremendous work ethic and resiliency in returning to form in 2005 from a major knee injury at the end of the previous season. Became a reliable and productive receiving option in 2005, after not demonstrating much in that area previously.

Weaknesses: Less than ideal measurables. On the small side to be the punishing feature back he was in college, and lacks top-end speed to be a home run threat. In addition to his torn ACL, he has a history of at least minor injuries every year of his career, although he’s always battled through them to have productive seasons.

Outlook: Moore’s triumphant return from knee surgery in February and return to form less than nine months later has not only secured his place in record books, but completely salvaged his draft value. However, he lacked elite speed even before the injury, so despite being one of the top senior prospects, he’ll have to impress in an all-star week and workouts to move up to being a Day One pick.

Andre Hall (South Florida - 4SR) 5’9” 205 4.52 - Career stats

2005 Honors: Big East 1st Team All-Conference

Strengths: Very quick and agile back who hits the hole hard despite his size. Good receiver out of the backfield and can add value as a kick returner. Excellent durability as a workhorse runner.

Weaknesses: Undersized for a feature runner and lacks the elite speed you’d like from a smaller back. Frequently struggled against better competition.

Outlook: Two-time JUCO All-American provided consistently tremendous production in his two years of D-IA ball. Lacks the speed to overcome his size deficiency at the next level, but has nice set of skills as a change of pace back and special teamer, making him a solid Day Two pick.

Leon Washington (Florida State - 4SR) 5’8” 210 4.50 - Career stats

2005 Honors: None

Strengths: Talented all-purpose back in a year with an abundance of them. Role as a return man has decreased since his sophomore year, as his workload in the offense increased, but he has shown great talent in that area.

Weaknesses: Digressed significantly from prior season. Size is a problem. It appears he tried to bulk up heading in to his final season, but it stole some of his stamina and quickness. Durability issues have been a recurring theme in his career. Shoulder problems in the past and ankle problems this year, he hasn’t played a full season since his freshman year.

Outlook: Undersized dynamo took a big step back after a breakout 2004 season. Continued to split carries with 3JR Lorenzo Booker, but whereas Washington was more productive in 2004, Booker was in 2005. HC Bobby Bowden has said Washington came into the 2005 season overweight and it is why he has struggled, and why Bowden limited his touches. As he appeared to be getting into shape, injury problems kicked in. The offense struggled at time under a freshman QB and injuries problems began to mount on the offensive line as the season wore on. Together, that all worked to ruined what should have been a showcase season for a runner whose versatility, speed, and quickness made him one of the top senior prospects heading into the year. He will need a tremendous showing in the Combine and workouts to regain his draft value.

Gerald Riggs Jr. (Tennessee - 4SR) 6’0” 218 4.55 - Career stats

2005 Honors: None

Strengths: Physical runner with prototypical size and build to be a feature back at the next level. Good cutback ability for a big back. Keeps his legs moving and has good lean to break tackles and get the extra yard inside, as well as with a good stiff arm in the open field.

Weaknesses: Light resume due to injury problems and RBBC prior to his final season. Lacked elite speed prior to season-ending leg injury, now will have to demonstrate he hasn’t lost any of it, or his cutback ability, in the Combine and workouts.

Outlook: One of the nation’s top recruits in 2002, he had a challenging career as a Vol. After waiting three years, during which time he contemplated transferring, he finally got the sole feature role as a senior in 2005. Then he seriously injured his right leg and ankle in their sixth game. A fractured ankle and ligament damage on 10/22/05 ended his collegiate career. Losing out on a chance to showcase himself at an all-star game is a big loss, but he’ll have had about four months to heal before the Combine, where he will have a lot to prove in workouts. He has the size and power to start in the NFL, but lacks breakaway speed, making him a borderline Day One selection before the injury.

Mike Bell (Arizona - 5SR) 6’0” 215 4.56 - Career stats:

2005 Honors: PAC-10 Honorable Mention All-Conference

Strengths: Consistent and durable workhorse in prototype NFL RB body. Decent hands and understanding of passing game. Loyal, flexible, and resilient intangibles through turbulent years in the program. Rated seventh by NFS and tenth by Blesto among senior RBs heading in to 2005 season.

Weaknesses: Unable to fully showcase talent in struggling offense throughout his collegiate career. Fell just short of rushing for over 1,000 yards the last three seasons, largely due to lack of supporting cast. Lacks a second-gear in the open field, less than average desired speed. Runs too upright, needs to lower pad level.

Outlook: Highly recruited out of high school, Bell has had the misfortune of having his talents frequently wasted in a program in transition. In a better program, there is no doubt he’d have found more success and recognition, which would have helped his draft value. As it stands, he needs to impress in the post-season activities to find a chance on Day Two. He brings a nice all-around package, nothing outstanding, but solid in all facets.

Cedric Humes (VaTech - 5SR) 6’1” 231 4.52 - Career stats

2005 Honors: None

Strengths: Outstanding size/speed combination, one of the more appealing packages of measurables at RB in this draft class. Strong and powerful north-south runner who can be a workhorse back.

Weaknesses: Production hasn’t come close to consistently matching measurables and potential. Only missed one game in four years, but untimely injuries have prevented him from breaking out. Lacks agility and elusiveness, runs a bit upright. Has good straight-line speed, but needs time to build up to it, can’t explode off a cut.

Outlook: He looks the part of a feature back and should test out like one, but he has never consistently demonstrated it. After being stuck behind Kevin Jones, he looked like the heir apparent to the recently strong RB tradition at VaTech, when a broken leg in spring practice before the 2004 season began to derail his potential. He didn’t miss a game, but he wasn’t right until the end of the season, and 4SR Mike Imoh had integrated himself into the picture by then. 2005 started with Humes and Imoh splitting carries, then Humes suffered a broken arm on 10/8/05. He had surgery to install a plate and six screws in the arm and the original prognosis was he’d miss 4-6 weeks. The team had a bye on 10/15 and Humes sat out at Maryland on 10/20, but it was the only game he’d miss in his career. Less that three weeks after breaking his arm, with a brace specially designed by the VaTech School of Engineering, Humes demonstrated some remarkable resiliency and returned on 10/27. With Imoh dinged up, Humes finished the season splitting carries with 2FR Branden Ore and Humes had a great performance in the Gator Bowl. I think Humes is a guy who could have a big all-star game and then impress at the Combine and in workouts, so he could be a late riser.

Taurean Henderson (Texas Tech - 5SR) 5’9” 205 4.55 - Career stats

2005 Honors: Big XII 1st Team All-Conference

Strengths: Versatility and durability. Outstanding receiver groomed in pro-style offense and knows how to find holes in pass coverage to bail his QB out.

Weaknesses: Lacks ideal size without elite speed to compensate.

Outlook: Undersized dynamo is overlooked in the Red Raiders air-based attack, but he has been extremely productive and is one of the most versatile players in NCAA history. He is the only player in NCAA history with over 2,000 yards rushing and receiving in his career and set the NCAA record for receptions by a RB. Many, including myself earlier this year, have under appreciated Henderson’s production and accomplishments. While a bit undersized for a feature back, he is a Mewelde Moore-type of player who simply gets the job done running and catching. He won’t be a high draft pick, but his productivity won’t be forgotten on Day Two. Ideal third-down back that can be a special teams ace.

Wali Lundy (Virginia - 4SR) 5’10” 214 4.61 - Career stats

2005 Honors: None

Strengths: Multi-talented threat with a tremendous nose for the end zone (ACC all-time career TD leader with 52). Very good short-yardage runner with power for his size, vision to find the crease, and explosion to get through to the second level.

Weaknesses: Durability and fumbling. His production as a receiver has decreased each year, after an incredible 58-435-4 as a true freshman. Lacks quickness to beat defenders to the corner and straight-line speed to hit the home run if he gets in the open field.

Outlook: One of the biggest disappointments of the year, after being one of the most productive runners in the nation his first three seasons. Coming into 2005, Lundy was fifth in career rushing yards among active D-IA players. He and DonTrell Moore were the only two players in the country with three seasons of 800+ rushing yards. His 10 100-yard games were the most by any active player in the ACC. He had scored 22 TDs in his last 14 games and his 41 TDs were third among active college players. His problems actually began mid-season in 2004, when inconsistency and fumbling landed him in HC Al Groh’s doghouse, allowing Alvin Pearman to break out and propel himself to being a fourth round pick. Lundy will now be lucky to go that high. However, 2005 started off well, as his problems with Groh appeared to be behind him. Groh complemented the off-season Lundy had and named him a team captain. He looked in great shape at the Spring Game, but left early after turning his ankle, and then sprained his foot in the season opener. It took him half the season to recover, and he was off the radar by then. Lacking ideal size and speed, I don’t see the Combine or workouts stopping his freefall. Looks like Walter Reyes all over again.

Chris Barclay (Wake Forest - 4SR) 5’10” 180 4.50 - Career stats

2005 Honors: ACC 1st Team All-Conference, ACC Offensive Player of the Year

Strengths: Slippery runner with breakaway speed. Extremely durable, never missed a college game due to injury (missed one in four years, due to a suspension in 2005). Intelligent player who can add value as a kick returner and decent receiver out of the backfield.

Weaknesses: Undersized and doesn’t have a frame to carry much more bulk. Overlooked from lack of publicity. Some discipline issues almost cost him his job in 2005.

Outlook: One of the most underrated RBs in the country; he posted three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons on his way to re-writing the school’s rushing records. Barclay digressed a bit in 2004 after his breakout true sophomore campaign and started 2005 with a suspension and losing his starting job. However, he quickly worked his way back and finished as the conference’s offensive player of the year. An undersized slasher, he does have breakaway speed, but will face discrimination in getting a chance to be a feature back at the next level due to his size. His consistent and significant production over his career hasn’t gotten much recognition at a mediocre Wake Forest program, so he’ll need to make a name for himself at an all-star game and in the Combine and workouts. Very hard to project at this point, since he is the type of player who could fall through cracks come April.

End Game
Names likely left to be considered late Day Two as fliers, needing breakout all-star week and/or workouts to move up. Most are undrafted free agents at this point.

Wendell Mathis (Fresno State - 5SR) 6’0” 211 4.58 - Career stats

2005 Honors: WAC 1st Team All-Conference

Strengths: Power runner inside, shifty through the hole and sheds tackles to into the second level. Good in short-yardage and goal line.

Weaknesses: Lacks bulk to be power runner at next level. Lacks breakaway speed.

Outlook: The UCLA transfer has been a very successful runner between the tackles and took on a workhorse role in 2005, despite carries being spread in a talented backfield. Primarily a north-south runner, but will have to bulk up to play that way at the next level.

Prince “P.J.” Daniels Jr. (Georgia Tech - 5SR) 5’10” 211 4.56 - Career stats

2005 Honors: ACC 2nd Team All-Conference

Strengths: Physical north-south runner with a well-built frame who delivers the blow and moves the pile when he runs. Worked to improve himself in passing game to the point you can say he has decent hands and blocking skills.

Weaknesses: Lacks top speed and agility. Back-up 3SO Tashard Choice was frequently more effective when given the chance.

Outlook: Former walk-on exploded in 2003, leading the ACC with one of the best seasons rushing the football in school and conference history. Struggled through injury-plagued 2004 (variety of leg problems) and 2005 (shoulder and sternum), but still led the team in rushing both years. He doesn’t possess tremendous physical gifts, so he is unlikely to help himself at the Combine and in workouts. However, he’s thrived on being a hard worker, smart, and coachable. A team looking for “character” guys will be the type to take a late round flyer on him.

Damien Rhodes (Syracuse - 4SR) 6’0” 211 4.55 - Career stats

2005 Honors: None

Strengths: Decent size with frame to add more bulk. Strong runner with some elusiveness in open field.

Weaknesses: Still raw and underdeveloped as a runner. Lacks instincts and vision to compliment his physical abilities.

Outlook: After living in Walter Reyes’ record-breaking shadow for three years, he was unable to live to up the high upside as the feature RB he had shown glimpses of as a back-up. He is a good physical specimen, but hasn’t shown the skills or instincts to be a good runner. A “better athlete than football player” type. His special teams ability, beyond just as a kick returner, will find him work on Sundays, but his upside as a RB leaves him a late Day Two pick at best.

Terrence Whitehead (Oregon - 4SR) 5’10” 220 4.60 - Career stats

2005 Honors: PAC-10 Honorable Mention All-Conference

Strengths: Fundamentally sound power runner who breaks tackles. Decent receiver out of the backfield.

Weaknesses: Lacks burst and a second gear. Durability has been a bit of a problem.

Outlook: Largely overlooked due to some bigger names in the PAC-10, but Whitehead put together another very good year and helped the Ducks put together a surprisingly good season. He was impressive enough to hold off blue chip 1FR Jonathan Stewart. If his speed tests out better than expected, he will be a name to watch as through the post-season festivities leading up to Draft Day.

Jerod Void (Purdue - 5SR) 6’1” 216 4.54 - Career stats

2005 Honors: None

Strengths: Ideal measurables for a feature back. Good top end speed, can run away from defenders in second level. Excellent receiver groomed in pro spread system. Outstanding all-around special teams player, can return both punts and kicks, as well as a good tackler and punt blocker.

Weaknesses: Lacks initial quickness and burst, needs time to build up to top speed. Runs too upright and lacks elusiveness, opening himself up to big hits. Needs to add thickness, but has the frame that can handle it. Doesn’t run with enough power for his size.

Outlook: After building his freshman and sophomore season as an emerging all-purpose runner with an excellent nose for the end zone, he digressed in 2004. He started 2005 out strong before derailing his season with a dislocated shoulder in the fourth game. 2FR Kory Sheets stepped up while he was out, flashing some big play ability. Void wouldn’t carry the load again until the last few games of the year, before Sheets outshined him again in the season finale. Void is a good athlete and football player, but lacks the instincts and fundamental of a running back. He is a bit like a wide receiver rushing the ball. However, he has nice potential and measurables, with hands and the ability to contribute in a variety of ways on special teams that should give him a chance to play on Sundays.

Quinton Ganther (Utah - 4SR) 5’10” 216 4.57 - Career stats

2005 Honors: MWC 2nd Team All-Conference

Strengths: Strong legs and upper body giving him explosive quickness and cutting ability.

Weaknesses: Lacks second gear. Sparse resume.

Outlook: JUCO transfer moved into a feature role for the first time at the D-IA level in 2005 and helped keep the Utes respectable after losing HC Urban Meyer and 1st overall pick QB Alex Smith, among others. An invite to the Combine shows Ganther is on the NFL radar, and he definitely passes the eyeball test, but he has a lot to prove. He should be impressive in strength testing and run drills well, but his speed is not expected to be elite. An undrafted free agent, unless he wows them at the Combine and in workouts.

Best of the Rest
An assortment of prospects with one or more intriguing facets, but the negatives currently outweigh the positives enough that right now, they will be undrafted free agents, at best, and many will be in another line of work this fall.

J.R. Lemon (Stanford - 5SR) 6’1” 225 4.55 - Career stats

2005 Honors: None

Strengths: Ideal measurables and build for a feature RB, definitely passes the eyeball test. Tremendous all-around athleticism and an intelligent player.

Weaknesses: Durability, consistency, and experience. Lacks vision and instincts.

Outlook: Tons of potential, but has never been able to put it together. After appearing to emerge in 2004 and finishing as the teams leading rusher, a hamstring injury kept him out of most of training camp and the first three games. He also didn’t seem to click with new HC Walt Harris, and he returned to finish off his final season as the least effective part of a three-headed RB monster. He has flashed some talent, but the times have been too few and far between. It’s hard to tell if he just lacks the “it” to be a quality feature runner, or injuries and turbulent changes to the team in his collegiate career have prevented him from being able to capitalize on his potential. He could blow teams away in workouts, but currently does not have a Combine invite, so he’ll have to do it in a lower-tier all-star game or two and at Stanford’s Pro Day. At this point, he’s too much of a question mark to be more than an undrafted free agent.

Lonta Hobbs (TCU - 4SR) 5’10” 220 4.53 - Career stats

2005 Honors: None

Strengths: Very good measurables and build. Technically sound, running with good pad level and lean. Very good in short-yardage with a nose for the end zone.

Weaknesses: Durability a major concern. Unpolished in the passing game.

Outlook: After exploding on the scene and re-writing the school’s record book as a true freshman, he has digressed every year since, mostly due to injuries. A groin injury wiped out almost all of 2005 and he has fallen off the draft radar, but should get a chance as an undrafted free agent.

Demetris Summers (3JR - formerly South Carolina) 6’0” 210 4.55 - Career stats

2005 Honors: None

Strengths: Showed great potential at one time, a natural runner. Decent speed and excellent size, definitely passes the eyeball test.

Weaknesses: Discipline, maturity, and experience. Off-field issues ended his collegiate career before he was even old enough to enter the draft. Did not play football in 2005.

Outlook: Not a sequel to the Maurice Clarett Story, but more of a spin-off. One of the top RB recruits in the country in 2003, he burst on the scene as a true freshman. He led the team in rushing and was an SEC All-Freshman with what appeared to be a bright future. Once again led the team in rushing in 2004, but failed to improve through an injury-plagued season. Then he was kicked off the team by new HC Steve Spurrier in March 2005, after a second failed drug test. Poor grades made transferring options a problem. So Summers hired a trainer and planned to work out all year to prepare for the 2006 draft. I haven’t seen an update on how he is progressing, but assume this is still his plan. While Summers was impressive his freshman year, he was no Maurice Clarett, and his play declined in 2004. He’ll be lucky to get a shot as an undrafted free agent.

Germaine Race (Pittsburgh State - 3JR) 5’11” 221 4.50 - Career stats

2005 Honors: Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association 1st Team All-MIAA, MIAA Offensive Player of the Year, AFCA 1st team All-American, AP 1st Team Little All-American

Strengths: Ideal measurables for a feature back, excellent combination of size, speed, and strength. Dominated DII competition.

Weaknesses: Domination of competition was DII. Season ended on sour note, as hamstring problems bothered him their last five games, keeping him out of their quarterfinal playoff loss.

Outlook: Underclared underclassman, as of yet. After gaining over 5,000 yards and scoring 75 TDs in 39 games, there is not much left for Race to do in DII. Physically, he appears to be ready to play at the next level, but a successful leap from DII to the pros is rare, much less as an underclassman.

Ryan Gilbert (Houston - 5SR) 5’10” 230 4.60 - Career stats

2005 Honors: C-USA 1st Team All-Conference

Strengths: Thick legs provide power and explosiveness for this bruising runner, who flashes a bit more speed than expected. Very good receiver.

Weaknesses: Light resume, back-up who got his shot due to injury.

Outlook: The LSU transfer was a pleasant surprise in Conference USA after emerging from a RBBC when 5SR Anthony Evans went down. Build and powerful running style is reminiscent of another former Cougar, Antowain Smith. Gilbert wasn’t on anyone’s radar at the beginning of the season, but appears to have worked an invitation to the Combine, so he has an opportunity to impress. Upside as a short-yardage FB with good hands, which would help him get drafted late Day Two, if a team felt he could handle the blocking aspect.

Antoine Bagwell (California University of Pennsylvania) 5’11” 185 4.54 - Career stats

2005 Honors: PSAC West 1st Team All-Star, PSAC West Offensive Player of the Year, AFCA 1st team All-American, AP 2nd Team Little All-American

Strengths: Tremendous acceleration through the hole, wastes no time getting to top speed. Record-setting production in just two years.

Weaknesses: Achievement against lower level of competition. Needs to get stronger and add more weight. Missed out on the type of physical development you get in a year-around training program in a D-IA program.

Outlook: Received a scholarship to Nebraska, but left after Frank Solich was fired, also was currently playing DB and wanted to be a RB again. So he went to JUCO and found an opportunity in DII. Recognition of his consideration of a legitimate NFL prospect is demonstrated in him being a rare DII player invited to play in one of the predominantly Division I all-star games, the Hula Bowl. His size and speed are not outstanding, but he was top prospect out of high school and has been productive enough he could get a chance as an undrafted free agent.

Kejuan Jones (Oklahoma - 5SR) 5’9” 190 4.55 - Career stats

Strengths: Thick legs give him excellent power for a smaller back. Excellent in short-yardage and goal-line situations, hits the hole hard and fast. Tough, intelligent, and unselfish team player.

Weaknesses: Lack of size. More quick than fast on the field, although his timed speed should be decent. Lacks patience to let blocks develop.

Outlook: After being the featured back in 2003, he took a back seat to the Adrian Peterson Experience. Demonstrated being a tremendous team player in not complaining about being passed over. Accepted his role and produced in it. As Peterson struggled with injuries in his sophomore campaign, his value was shown again in 2005. He’s been overlooked and is undersized, but I think he’d make an outstanding third down back at the next level. His rare combination of receiving ability and short-yardage power make him ideal for the role, if he can develop as a pass blocker and add value on special teams. No invites to all-star games or the Combine will make it tough for him to get drafted, though.

Albert “A.J.” Harris (Northern Illinois - 4SR) 6’1” 220 4.42 - Career stats

2005 Honors: None

Strengths: Physically and from a measurables standpoint, the ideal prototype feature back. Breakaway speed for any size back.

Weaknesses: Light resume. Better athlete than football player.

Outlook: Despite tremendously impressive physical characteristics, Harris was stuck behind Michael Turner, then passed by 4JR Garrett Wolfe, and based on the production of each, it’s hard to argue. He has been very productive when given the opportunity, but those opportunities have been few and far between. He’ll have to learn to play special teams to have a shot as an undrafted free agent at the next level.

William Leroy “P.J.” Pope Jr. (Bowling Green - 4SR) 5’9” 216 4.55 - Career stats

2005 Honors: None.

Strengths: Outstanding production prior to 2005. Thick frame and strong for his size.

Weaknesses: Undersized, lacks speed, and was injured most of 2005. Ball security has been a problem. Production was helped by being product of high-powered collegiate offense.

Outlook: Tremendously productive bowling ball rolled through back-to-back All-MAC 1,000 yard rushing seasons for the first time in school history in 2003 and 2004. However, he went down in the season opener at Wisconsin with two sprained ankles and wasn’t effective most of the season. Pope was surpassed by 5SR B.J. Lane, his long-time back up and an equally uninspiring NFL prospect. If he ever was on any draft board, he’s been scratched off.

Patrick Cobbs (North Texas - 5SR) 5’8” 190 4.60 - Career stats

2005 Honors: Sun Belt 1st Team All-Conference

Strengths: 2003 NCAA D-IA rushing champion. Excellent quickness and good power for his size. Adds value as a return man.

Weaknesses: Undersized and success was against primarily mid-major competition. Missed 2004 with injury, during which a true freshman was able to replicate his accomplishments, taking away some of their significance as the system obviously contributed significantly to the results. Struggled in a job-sharing role in 2005, which hurts his perception as even a part-time player, since he doesn’t have the measurables to be a feature runner at the next level.

Outlook: After leading D-IA in rushing in 2003, Cobbs looked to again be one of the most productive RBs in the nation in 2004. However, an early knee injury resulted in him missing the rest of the season and taking a redshirt. His replacement, 2SO Jamario Thomas, filled in more than adequately as a true freshman. In an unexpected encore to Cobbs’ own out-of-nowhere emergence, Thomas amazingly ended up leading the nation in rushing for 2004. The much-anticipated combination of this dynamic duo in 2005 was tremendously disappointing. Neither was able to get momentum going in any game splitting carries and the team was knocked hard off their perch above the Sun Belt Conference. It wasn’t until Thomas was shut down with a hamstring injury, eight games into the season, that Cobbs again flashed his 2003 form, ending the season strong with four consecutive 100-yard games. Lacking ideal measurables before the injury and subsequent disappointing start to the 2005 season, Cobbs will likely be an undrafted free agent.

De’Arrius Howard (Arkansas - 5SR) 6’0” 228 4.54 - Career stats

2005 Awards: None

Strengths: Pounding runner with ideal measurables. Effective in short-yardage and goal-line situations.

Weaknesses: Blank resume. Consistently beaten out and pushed to the background by superior talent on his own team.

Outlook: The Razorbacks’ top returning rusher from 2004 was once again unable to capitalize on his promising physical potential. First he sat behind Fred Talley, then he failed to overtake the inconsistent Cedric Cobbs, and last year was leap-frogged by DeCori Birmingham. It looked like he would finally get his chance last year, and he started out very well with back-to-back 100 yard games, the first two of his career. Then he struggled at USC and was promptly replaced by true freshmen Felix Jones and Darren McFadden, who went on to have breakout seasons. Howard has some untapped potential that misfortune and probably some lack of motivation on his part, has kept suppressed. He was on the Doak Walker pre-season watch list prior to 2003, before Cobbs took over, so his potential has been recognized. However, he’ll need to find work at the next level as an undrafted free agent, because all he has going for him is measurables and potential.

Cory Ross (Nebraska - 5SR) 5’6” 198 4.52 - Career stats

2005 Honors: Big XII Honorable Mention All-Conference

Strengths: Built very thick with incredible lower body strength that provide excellent burst. Quick and elusive runner with surprising power and good linear speed. Improved receiving skills shown in almost doubling his output from previous season in catching the ball.

Weaknesses: Extremely undersized. Dances in the backfield too much at times instead of hitting the hole.

Outlook: After breakout 2004, this bowling ball started strong and ended strong, but was ineffective as a RB during much of a season in which he had a lot to prove to build his draft value. He is not as talented as Quentin Griffin, who managed to get drafted early Day Two, despite his diminutive stature. Ross lacks elite speed and does not offer tremendous upside in other areas (i.e. as a returner) to give enough reason to overlook his size.

Chris Taylor (Indiana - 4SR) 5’11” 216 4.46 - Career stats

2005 Honors: None

Strengths: Speed.

Weaknesses: Light resume as durability has been a problem over the years and he has been beaten out by better backs.

Outlook: When 2004 leading rusher 3JR Benjarvus Green-Ellis transferred prior to the 2005 season, it finally opened the door for Taylor and 5SR Yamar Washington. After a strong spring, Taylor took the lead of the RBBC and was more productive than Washington throughout the season. Taylor was solid, but unspectacular, in his only season with significant work. He has decent build and measurables, with speed his biggest asset. He has taken to barnstorming all-star games to increase his exposure, but remains an undrafted free agent prospect at this point.

Shermar Bracey (Arkansas State - 4SR) 6’1” 227 4.56 - Career stats

2005 Honors: None

Strengths: Powerful runner with ideal size and decent speed, can surprise you with a long run. Very productive, when given the opportunity.

Weaknesses: Light resume due to always being a back-up. Flashes of talent he showed, when given a chance, were against mid-major competition. Runs too upright, not very technically sound overall.

Outlook: Antonio Warren’s back-up had some big games in mop-up time or when Warren was injured, but never had an opportunity to show what he could do as a feature runner. He has more impressive measurables than Warren, which could get him a look as an undrafted free agent, possibly as a FB.

Antonio Warren (Arkansas State - 5SR) 5’10” 201 4.64 - Career stats

2005 Honors: Sun Belt 1st Team All-Conference

Strengths: Productive runner put together back-to-back 1,000 yard seasons and was sixth in the nation in rushing after four games, before an ankle sprain derailed his season.

Weaknesses: Sub-par measurables. Impressive production against mid-major competition. Durability an issue.

Outlook: The quiet star of the Sun Belt has been consistently successful since emerging from a RBBC in 2004. However, he doesn’t have the physical skills to succeed at the next level. Unlikely to even make it as an undrafted free agent. His back-up, Shermar Bracey, actually has a better shot because of superior size and speed.

Derrick Ross (Tarleton State - 4SR) 5’10” 238 4.65 - Career stats

2005 Honors: Lone Star Conference 1st Team All-Conference, Lone Star Conference South Division Offensive Back of the Year

Strengths: Powerful runner with great size who ran over and dominated DII competition.

Weaknesses: Domination was of DII competition. Unpolished from learning in a DII program and lacks even average speed for the NFL, where he’ll no longer be able to run over people.

Outlook: Late rising small school prospect is too slow and unpolished for a feature RB role. Could be looked at as a FB.

Chauncey Washington (USC - 3SO) 6’0” 210 4.55 - Career stats

2005 Honors: N/A

Strengths: Unknown.

Weaknesses: Blank resume, hasn’t been on the field since his true freshman year and didn’t even practice with the team last year.

Outlook: After being academically ineligible the last two years, Washington was recently declared ineligible again for at least the spring. He could still be eligible in time for the fall, but considering he took last year off to totally focus on academics, there seems to be no reason to believe he’ll make it this time. Prior to finding out he would be ineligible for the spring, he said he’d consider declaring if he was ineligible again, but has not made a decision. The smart move would be to transfer to a lower division, but obviously smart is not his strong suit. Apparently he has a problem with taking a step down after being a heralded recruit with a scholarship to USC. If he declares, he’ll almost certainly be nothing more than an undrafted free agent. He played sparingly his freshman year and hasn’t even been on a football field in almost a year.

Seymore Shaw (Central Oklahoma - 5SR) 5’11” 220 4.59 - Career Stats

Strengths: Punishing north-south runner with ideal size to be a workhorse back.

Weaknesses: Legal and behavior problems. Played Division II his last season.

Outlook: Once looked at as the heir to Tatum Bell’s starting spot and next great Cowboy RB, an untimely injury cost him a shot and he was passed by Vernand Morency, who went on to have a breakout 2004 and be drafted by the Houston Texans. With the path to starter no longer blocked in 2005, off-field troubles also surfaced again prior to the season. He came to OSU with baggage due to an arrest in high school for striking a girl and was only a partial qualifier due to academics. This time, another female acquaintance had a protective order slapped on him in late May 2005 and he is still facing a litany of charges from an incident involving her. This led to an indefinite suspension in June, shortly after which Shaw decided to transfer to Central Oklahoma (DII). Already in his last year of eligibility, Shaw couldn’t transfer to another D-IA program and play. After missing two games due to injury, he has been passed by fellow 5SR Kevin McKenzie, a former Tulsa transfer. Shaw rushed for 149-631-5 (4.2 ypc) in 8 games, while McKenzie has 169-839-7 (5.0 ypc) in 10 games. Regardless of his decent success this year, it’s at a much lower level and he’s never shown he can carry the load at the D-IA level, plus he comes with a lot of baggage. Unlikely to get a chance as an undrafted free agent, much less get drafted.

B.J. Mitchell (Nevada - 4SR) 5’8” 208 4.65 - Career stats

2005 Honors: WAC 1st Team All-Conference, WAC Offensive Player of the Year

Strengths: Strong and well-built, with surprising power for his size. Great work ethic.

Weaknesses: Size and speed.

Outlook: After backing up Chance Kretschmer for three years, Mitchell earned the feature role and had a breakout season, leading the conference in rushing and helping the team to a share of the WAC title for their first time since joining the conference. He is a product of hard work and succeeded as a physical runner, but he is to small to thrive that way at the next level and lacks speed to offset his size deficiency. He won’t be drafted and is unlikely to even get a shot as an undrafted free agent.

William “B.J.” Lane (Bowling Green - 5SR) 5’10” 201 4.55 - Career stats

2005 Honors: None

Strengths: Quick with decent hands.

Weaknesses: Thick upper body, but thin legs. Light resume, career back-up who did nothing special when given feature work in his last season.

Outlook: Career back-up was a great compliment to 4SR P.J. Pope and was decent, but unspectacular when given more of a workload after Pope was hurt in the season opener. A change of pace back without great measurables and experience, he shouldn’t even get a look as an undrafted free agent.

Athletic Quarterbacks
Every year there are a few QB prospects with terrific athleticism (read: running ability), but suspect upside as a passer. They usually are considered for other positions, such as wide receiver or defensive back, but despite their running skills and speed, they never seem considered for RB. One day the wisdom of trying this will catch up to NFL teams. In case it’s this year, here are the top athletes at QB who are likely to be considered at other positions. Vince Young won’t be asked to be anything else, so I didn’t bother including him. McNeal probably has the best chance of this group to remain looked at as a QB. The versatile Robinson has played RB (along with every WR role).

Reggie McNeal (Texas A&M - 4SR) 6’2” 196 4.40 - Career stats

Brad Smith (Missouri - 4SR) 6’2” 210 4.52 - Career stats

Michael Robinson (Penn State - 5SR) 6’1” 220 4.56 - Career stats

Marcus Vick (Virginia Tech - 4JR) 6’0” 215 4.45 - Career stats

All-Star Games
Here’s where you can catch the top senior RB prospects playing in their last game before the draft. It was historically frowned upon to invite underclassmen to these events, but the competition to get talent to attract attendance and scouts is fierce, so we are starting to see exceptions.

The Senior Bowl is the most prestigious and will have the most NFL front office members and scouts in attendance. Many players may accept invitations to other games earlier, but rescind if invited to the Senior Bowl, as invitees to that game are finalized last (the week before the game). Generally, the top senior prospects will only participate in the Senior Bowl, if any. There will be some overlooked or snubbed, especially if a particular position is deep with senior talent.

Some players with little to no draft value will accept more than one invite and barnstorm multiple games attempting to increase their value through more exposure. However, as most of the games also involve a few days to a week of practice, which is just as important to their evaluation as the actual game. Because of this, most prospects only participate in one game, even though you may see them with multiple offers extended below. Injuries can also, of course, change plans as well. Bottom line, the players attached to the games in the lists below are very much subject to change up to the game.

Senior Bowl
Saturday, 1/28/06 3pm EST on ESPN

South
Leon Washington, Florida State
Jerious Norwood, Mississippi State
Joseph Addai, LSU
Mike Bell, Arizona
DonTrell Moore, New Mexico*

North
DeAngelo Williams, Memphis
Lawrence Vickers, Colorado (FB)
Jerome Harrison, Washington State*
Cedric Humes, Virginia Tech*
Matt Bernstein, Wisconsin (FB)*

* Speculation, I’ve only seen the other six RBs officially invited. The final rosters should have about ten.

East-West Shrine Game
Saturday, 1/21/06 4pm EST on ESPN

East
Leon Washington, FSU
De’Arrius Howard, Arkansas
Wali Lundy, Virginia
Nick Hartigan, Brown (FB)

West
Jerome Harrison Washington State
Taurean Henderson, Texas Tech
DonTrell Moore, New Mexico
Reggie McNeal, Texas A&M (QB)
Gilbert Harris, Arizona (FB)

Hula Bowl
Saturday, 1/21/06 7pm EST on ESPN

West
Cory Ross, Nebraska
Patrick Cobbs, North Texas
Brad Smith, Missouri (QB/WR)
Naufahu Tahi, BYU (FB)
Shawn Willis, Oklahoma State (FB)

East
Andre Hall, South Florida
Antoine Bagwell, California University of PA
P.J Pope, Bowling Green
P.J. Daniels, Georgia Tech

Las Vegas All-American Classic
Saturday, 1/14/06 4:30pm EST

East
Chris Taylor, Indiana
Shelton Sampson, Northwestern State
Chris Barclay, Wake Forest
James Coleman, FSU (FB)
Quadtrine Hill, Miami (FB)

West
Bryson Sumlin, Fresno State
Joe Rubin, Portland State
J.R. Lemon, Stanford
John David Washington, Morehouse
Naufahu Tahi, BYU (FB)

Cactus Bowl (DII)
1/6/06 7:35pm EST

East
Antoine Bagwell, California University of PA
Anthony Carfagno, East Stroudsburg (FB)
Martin Hicks, Winston-Salem State

West
Jamar Day, Nebraska-Omaha
Matt Birkel, Saint Cloud State
Rashon Myles, Abilene Christian

Magnolia Grid-Iron Classic (D-IA v. D-IAA)
12/24/05, 12pm EST

I-A (and other)
Chris Taylor, Indiana
Anthony Sherrell, Eastern Michigan
J.R. Lemon, Stanford
De De Dorsey, Lindenwood
Kasey Young , Western New Mexico (FB)

I-AA
Keldrick Williams, Alabama State
Sean Treasure, Minnesota State
Terrence Freeney, Northern Iowa
Anthony Harris, Nicholls State (FB)

Combine
The following is the preliminary list of senior running backs that are invited to the Combine. The list will be updated when the deadline for underclassmen to declare has past and they have been invited. It is rare a RB not invited to the Combine goes on Day One. The Combine will be held 2/22/06 – 2/28/06 at the RCA Dome in Indianapolis, IN.

Addai, Joseph (LSU)
Bell, Mike (Arizona)
Bernstein, Matt (Wisconsin) - FB
Daniels, P.J. (Georgia Tech)
Ganther, Quinton (Utah)
Gilbert, Ryan (Houston)
Hall, Andre (South Florida)
Harris, Gilbert (Arizona) - FB
Harrison, Jerome (Washington)
Henderson, Taurean (Texas Tech)
Humes, Cedric (Virginia Tech)
Kirtman, David (USC) - FB
Lundy, Wali (Virginia)
Mathis, Wendell (Fresno State)
McNeal, Reggie (Texas A&M) - QB
Moore, DonTrell (New Mexico)
Norwood, Jerious (Mississippi)
Riggs Jr., Gerald (Tennessee)
Robinson, Michael (Penn State) - QB
Ross, Cory (Nebraska)
Ross, Derrick (Tarleton State) - FB
Smith, Brad (Missouri) – QB/WR
Tahi, Naufahu (BYU) - FB
Vickers, Lawrence (Colorado) - FB
Washington, Leon (FSU)
Whitehead, Terrence (Oregon)
Williams, DeAngelo (Memphis)