Our bloggers have been busy identifying keepers for their respective conferences the last few weeks. But what about the guys currently on your roster? You know, the guys that you're hoping have a BIG year, but if they do, it could be their last.
With next season in mind, let's take a look at some running backs that could declare for the 2011 NFL Draft....
Mark Ingram, Alabama - There is not a more prototypical NFL back in the country. Big and strong on his feet, he has deceptive speed and ability to catch out of the backfield. I simply can't see him sticking around for another year (barring injury of course). Probability of Return: 5% Impact: Trent Richardson
Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech - Williams was one of the most impressive backs in the country last season. He showed great vision, cutback and surprising power. Williams is currently listed as our #2 rated running back on our sister NFL Draft Site. The one thing to watch is how much of his workload is split with Darren Evans. With strong 2010 campaigns, they both could be off to New York for the NFL Draft. Probability of Return: 30% Impact: Darren Evans &David Wilson
Jacquizz Rodgers, Oklahoma - He stands at only 5-foot-7, but he packs a punch. Just ask Pac-10 defenders. Rodgers has already racked up 639 touches in just two years. This will be his last. Probability of Return: 5% Impact: TBD
John Clay, Wisconsin - Big and powerful, he should do well in the NFL. He'll need to show that he can also block and catch out the backfield to be considered a first round pick though. Probability of Return: 25% Impact: Montee Ball
LaMichael James, Oregon - James was the beneficiary of the Punch Heard Around the World and he made the most of the opportunity. The big question is, can the 5-foot-9 and 185-pound back run between the tackles or is he a beneficiary of the Ducks' offense which is tailor made to his skill set? Probability of Return: 85% Impact: Kenjon Barner, Lache Seastrunk & Dontae Williams.
Others: Owners of Shane Vereen, Montel Harris, Jordan Todman and Jeff Demps might have to sweat out big seasons. However, with 2011 shaping up to be a strong class of backs, the odds appear to be in favor of them returning. One special note, we've been asked about the possibility of Dion Lewis leaving early as there is some confusion on whether he was a high school graduate or a prep schooler. Lewis attended Blair Academy, but was not a prep schooler. Blair Academy has both a high school graduate and postgraduate programs. Rest assured, he's a true sophomore and is not eligible for next year's draft.
From the Blogs: ACC Keepers - Big Ten Keepers - Big 12 Keepers - Pac-10 Keepers - SEC Keepers