NFL draft: Running backs

By JUDD ZULGAD, Star Tribune

Last update: April 17, 2008 - 8:01 PM

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NFL DRAFT PREVIEWS

This is Day 2 of the Star Tribune's position-by-position preview for the NFL draft April 26-27 in New York City.

Sunday: Quarterbacks

Today: Running backs

Tuesday: Receivers/tight ends

Wednesday: Offensive linemen

Thursday: Defensive linemen

Friday: Defensive backs

Saturday: Linebackers

THE CREAM ...

DARREN McFADDEN, Arkansas

This isn't going to be an easy act to follow.

One year after Oklahoma's Adrian Peterson more than delivered on his promise as the top running back in the draft, McFadden finds himself in a position to be a top-five selection. Fair or not, let the comparisons begin.

Peterson, of course, fell to the Vikings with the seventh overall selection because of concerns about a collarbone injury. The 6-1, 211-pound McFadden also could slip, but that would be because of worries about various off-the-field incidents, including a January bar fight. "I know I put myself in a bad situation," he said. "I shouldn't have been in [it], and I take full responsibility."

McFadden's on-the-field ability, however, might be too enticing to pass up. His acceleration and speed helped him rush for more than 1,000 yards in three seasons at Arkansas, and he was twice a runner-up for the Heisman Trophy. A solid performance at the NFL combine (4.33 seconds in the 40-yard dash) didn't hurt .

And how does McFadden feel about the Peterson comparisons? "I admire Adrian Peterson," he said. "He's a great running back, and I feel like if I go in and do all the work that I should do and put in the right work necessary, I could have the type of season he did."

... AND THE CROP

1. RASHARD MENDENHALL, ILLINOIS

A full-time starter for only one season, Mendenhall (5-10, 225) rushed for 1,526 yards and 16 touchdowns last year, including 155 yards on 17 carries in a Rose Bowl loss to USC. He ran a 4.41 in the 40, but there have been concerns about his ability to hold on to the ball.

2. JONATHAN STEWART, OREGON

Rushed for 1,469 yards last season and had 20 touchdowns over the past two years but had surgery in March to repair a turf toe injury. Stewart (5-10, 235) ran a 4.48 40 at the combine and could be ready when training camps open in late July.

3. FELIX JONES, ARKANSAS

Stuck behind McFadden in college, Jones rushed for 1,117 yards and 11 touchdowns last season. He hits the hole fast and is elusive, and he's valuable because he's a good receiver and can return kicks.

SLEEPER

RAY RICE, RUTGERS

The all-time leading rusher at Rutgers with 4,926 yards and 49 touchdowns, the 5-8 Rice showed good speed at the combine. The obvious concern is his size, but Rice did show good durability while at college.

PURPLE FEVER

With Peterson and Chester Taylor forming one of the NFL's best 1-2 punches, the Vikings don't need to consider a running back on Day 1. However, they could be in the market to take a running back on the second day in order to provide depth and add youth.