Top Free Agent Running Backs

1. Ronnie Brown – Miami (UFA)

I seriously doubt that the Dolphins will let Brown get anywhere near the open market nest March, but crazier things have happened during an off-season, so never say never I guess. That being said, if he somehow finds his way into the free agency period, look for him to break the bank with a major deal, as someone will be all too happy to back up the Brinks truck in exchange for his services.

Likely destinations: Miami, Washington, Cleveland, Seattle

2. Jerious Norwood – Atlanta (UFA)

Norwood has the ability to be a game changing back, especially when he’s paired with a bigger RB that can handle the short-yardage plays, like Michael Turner has for the Falcons. His speed, elusiveness, and versatility will make Norwood a wealthy man on the free agent market, if the Falcons don’t lock him up first that is.

Likely destinations: Atlanta, Kansas City, Seattle, Washington

3. Darren Sproles – San Diego (UFA)

Sproles is lightning fast and one of the most dangerous return men in the game today, but his size could limit his role with any team he signs with, unless of course he sticks with the Chargers, who aren’t likely to use their franchise tag on him again next spring. Either way, I suspect Sproles will be picking up a nice pay day once the free agency period commences, and any team lucky to get him will reap the reward on the field next fall.

4. Pierre Thomas- New Orleans (RFA)

Thomas is not free to explore the market completely, but I wouldn’t be surprised if a team is willing to give up a pair of picks to get him away from the Saints, as he has the ability to be a dominant lead rusher for several years to come. All of that of course is subject to whether or not the Saints choose to pay him now or later, but one way or another he’ll be a feature back someplace soon.

Likely destinations: New Orleans, Cleveland, New England, Washington

5. Willie Parker – Pittsburgh (UFA)

Parker will have a few issues heading into the free agency period next spring, as his age (28) and injury history will lead some teams to pass on his services, despite his ability to make big time plays, but I still think he’s worthy of a final solid contract regardless. After all, they don’t call him “Fast” Willie Parker for nothing, and he has the skills to make opposing defenses pay when they don’t account for his speed and agility out of the backfield. That said, I’d be surprised if the Steelers keep him around, as Rashard Mendenhall is starting to come into his own this year.

Likely destinations: Pittsburgh, Washington, New England, Seattle

Other Notable UFA Running Backs

• Chester Taylor – Minnesota
• Leon Washington – New York Jets
• Kenneth Darby – St. Louis
• Kevin Faulk – New England
• Jerome Harrison – Cleveland
• Adrian Peterson – Chicago
• Cadillac Williams – Tampa Bay
• Ricky Williams – Miami

Other Notable RFA Running Backs

• DeShawn Wynn – Green Bay
• Kolby Smith – Kansas City
• Le’Ron McClain – Baltimore

Notable UFA Fullbacks

• Tony Richardson – New York Jets
• Justin Griffith – Seattle

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