The running back free agent class looked a lot better last week, let's just say that. 5 of the running backs amongst the men that were set to become free agents were all under 26 years old, and all arguably were elite talents. In the last week, each of them have decided to stay with their current teams and now the running back class is much beleaguered and watered down. Which means one thing is most likely going to happen: a team that's primarily searching for a running back is going to overpay one of these men. With that said, let's play the game, shall we?
Michael Bush - For the last few seasons, Michael Bush has been the definition of "the running back who'd be interesting to watch as an every down back." All signs are pointing towards Bush getting that very opportunity this coming season. While he got the snaps with McFadden being injury prone since he got into the league in 2008, Bush certainly never was the feature back for Oakland. Bush's YPC has dipped over the last three seasons (4.8 in 2009 to a mere 3.8 this past season) which may present a caution towards some teams, but no doubt with the watered down market, Bush will get an assortment of teams calling for his services.
Michael Bush will play for the Cincinnati Bengals in 2012
Peyton Hillis - Peyton Hillis had a dream season in 2010, ultimately landing him on the Madden 12 cover. Well, that didn't turn out so well like many before him. Hillis had a bogus 2011 filled with 4 different agents, causing dissension and angst in the Cleveland locker room, and even reportedly considering retirement and joining the CIA. I think that this may bring a lot of concern towards Hillis from the get-go and teams will be hesitant to sign someone who was on the verge of quitting just because of an bush league attitude. The Juggernaut will have to wait a while to find a home for the 2012, but ultimately, like everyone else, will probably find a spot somewhere (and perhaps somewhere where he'll fit right in).
Peyton Hillis will play for the Detroit Lions in 2012
Cedric Benson - Benson's done a great job reinventing himself since he got to Cincinnati a couple of seasons ago and since then he's been a pretty productive player. After a downtrodden couple of years in Chicago after being selected with the 4th overall pick, Benson played himself out of The Windy City and landed in Cincinnati where he turned his career around and actually produced. While I see his tenure ending in Cincinnati I do not expect Benson to be on the market for long. He'll find a home and should make the most of it so long as he keeps himself out of trouble and isn't overpaid. One of them isn't so guaranteed given the market, but the other is still up for debate.
Cedric Benson will play for the Oakland Raiders in 2012
Ryan Grant - It's unfortunate, from Ryan Grant's perspective, that James Starks had his chance to shine in the 2011 NFL Playoffs. Grant's become somewhat forgotten all of a sudden, despite him being an above average running back from his arrival in Green Bay in 2007 to 2009, arguably at the time, within the Top 15 of the league. His age at the moment though is probably going to cause buyers to be hesitant, as that factor always tends to do, and his dual threat ability has been hindered so his work in the passing game has kind of died down. But I can see Grant staying put in Green Bay and accepting his role because to be quite honest even with all that I've said, that's probably what he's going to be doing anywhere else.
Ryan Grant will play for the Green Bay Packers in 2012
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