When to take a third running back is one of the most underrated aspects of a fantasy draft.
If you look at the Nos. 21-30 backs on my draft list below, you see a ton of talent. That doesn't mean you should rush out and grab one (or two).
It depends who you selected as your top two backs.
If you went RB-RB to start your draft, you probably have two every-week players. Using, say, a fifth-round pick on a third back would be a waste because chances are this guy isn't going to play much for you. You'd be better off grabbing a wide receiver who figures to start for you.
But if, on the other hand, you were lured by the superstar talent available at quarterback and wideout in the first three rounds, and the entire Top 20 backs are gone by the time you turn your attention to that position, this is when the 21-30 batch becomes important to you.
This is when you need to grab not one, not two but at least three of these guys. Landing, say, Pierre Thomas, LenDale White and Kevin Smith in Rounds 4-5-6 would give you the potential of having two pretty darn good backs each week ... complementing the league's best set of quarterbacks and wide receivers.
There's enough talent at 21-30 this year to use that strategy. Consider it.
2009 Fantasy Football Draft List: Running Backs
1. Adrian Peterson, Vikings. Why he's No. 1.
2. LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers. Why he's No. 2.
3. Brian Westbrook, Eagles. Why he's No. 3.
4. Matt Forte, Bears. Why he's No. 4.
5. Chris Johnson, Titans. Why he's No. 5.
6. Marion Barber, Cowboys.
7. Brandon Jacobs, Giants.
8. Joseph Addai, Colts.
9. Michael Turner, Falcons.
10. Frank Gore, 49ers. Why they're Nos. 6-10.
11. Steven Jackson, Rams.
12. Clinton Portis, Redskins.
13. Willie Parker, Steelers.
14. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers.
15. Reggie Bush, Saints.
16. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins.
17. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars.
18. Ryan Grant, Packers.
19. Marshawn Lynch, Bills.
20. Steve Slaton, Texans. Draft strategy for Nos. 11-20.
21. Pierre Thomas, Saints.
22. LenDale White, Titans.
23. Derrick Ward, Buccaneers.
24. Laurence Maroney, Patriots.
25. Thomas Jones, Jets.
26. Darren McFadden, Raiders.
27. Willis McGahee, Ravens.
28. Kevin Smith, Lions.
29. Cedric Benson, Bengals.
30. Beanie Wells, Cardinals.
Who are Nos. 31-40? Click here to find out.
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