Why You Should Not Draft A.P. #1

Adrian Peterson won the rushing title last season, led the NFL in yards from scrimmage with 1,885 and had the most 100-yard rushing games with ten.  So based on that, he should be an obvious choice to be the first running back selected, right?  Not so fast.

There are a few important factors to consider before writing Peterson’s name in the top slot of your draft board.  While there’s no dispute on whether Peterson will be able to pile up the rushing yards again, it should be pointed out that the Vikings don’t always use A.P at the goal line.  In fact, Peterson had only 18 rushing attempts inside the 10 yard line, a relatively low number for a feature back.  Part of that may be because Peterson led all running backs in total fumbles (9) and fumbles lost (4) last season.  That number ties him with the retirement announcements of his new quarterback Brett Favre.  And don’t forget about back-up, Chester Taylor, who often finds his way on to the field on third downs and also managed to rush for four touchdowns last season.

So if not Adrian Peterson, then who should be selected as the #1 running back?  There have been doubters saying that Michael Turner will not be able to repeat his stellar 2008 season, but I’m not one of them.  Turner had only 61 less rushing yards last season than Peterson, but seven more touchdowns.  He is a lethal red-zone weapon, leading the NFL in red-zone carries and among the leaders in goal line touches.  With the addition of Tony Gonzalez now occupying a safety in the defensive backfield, Turner will have one less defender stuffing the box.  Look for Turner to add to his 17 TD total from last season.  Making him the #1 pick will shock your league – but it also may help you win it.

This post was written by TFSF