There’s also chatter that Bradshaw handles kickoff return duties, per The New York Daily News . That certainly takes him out of the equation for a lead role. So, while he’ll certainly eat away some of Jacobs’ carries and goal-line work if Jacobs falters again, the bulldozer gets the nod out of the gate and should be drafted as a late RB2 or early RB3.
6. Houston: Arian Foster, Steve Slaton and Ben Tate
Slaton was one of the darlings of the 2008 NFL season, as he racked up more than 1,600 total yards with 10 total touchdowns. Unfortunately, Slaton was afflicted with fumbleitis and struggled markedly as a sophomore, and a nerve injury was later diagnosed. The Texans are optimistic that Slaton will be cleared for the start of training camp.
The Texans also added Tate to the mix out of Auburn. He’s a beast between the tackles and is likely to siphon off goal-line carries. But, as Tate was quick to point out when I talked to him last month, he’s also got great foot speed (sub-4.4 at the combine). He’s working back from a hamstring injury and participated during the most recent OTAs.
With Slaton and Tate ailing, Foster's been working with the first unit. He finished the season with strong efforts against the Dolphins (97 yards) and Patriots (117 yards) while scoring three touchdowns.
Summary: Foster may enter training camp as the No. 1 option for Gary Kubiak, but I agree with the early draft trends and believe that Tate wins out before it’s said and done. Do I hear ROY? The Houston offense certainly has the firepower to put up a hefty point total. The only thing that concerns me is the potential for a Shanahan-inspired multi-back system.
7. Washington: Larry Johnson, Willie Parker and Clinton Portis
Speaking of Shanahan, he’s back on the sidelines and ready to torment fantasy owners once again. He’s reunited with his former Denver pupil Clinton Portis, who currently stands as the top option of a three-man veteran committee. He returns from an injury-riddled 2009 campaign (494 yards in eight games) and will seek to fend off former Pro Bowlers and first-round fantasy options Larry Johnson and Willie Parker.
Summary: If healthy, I have to believe Portis wins out in the three-man battle, particularly given his ability and willingness to pass protect. That’s certainly not been a strong point for either Johnson or Parker in their respective histories. However, Portis’ health, the arrival of two other capable backs and the Shanahan effect can't be dismissed. He comes into the season as a RB3, and more than a few have run screaming to the hills instead of snagging him, but there’s a ton of upside potential.
