2007 Fantasy Football Preview: Sleeper Picks - Running Backs

Now that more teams are implementing the two-back system this season, there will be more backs that will see their stock rise in fantasy football. There are also those players who had rough campaigns in 2006 and look to bounce back this season. Here's my list for the potential surprise running backs in fantasy football.

Joseph Addai, Indianapolis Colts
Addai produced exceptional numbers as a rookie in 2006 and will now be expected to carry the load alone this upcoming season with the departure of Dominic Rhodes. Addai is a potential late first round pick, but mostly likely will get drafted in the later rounds. The possibility of Joseph Addai having a breakout season with the defending Super Bowl Champion Colts is high.

Edgerrin James, Arizona Cardinals
He struggled in the first half of the season with the Cardinals but returned to form towards the end of the year. For those who are counting Edgerrin James out for this season may be making a big mistake. Look for the Cardinals to emphasize a strong rushing attack in 2007 and for Edgerrin James to get back on track.

Laurence Maroney, England Patriots">New England Patriots
It looks like Maroney will be the featured back this season and that can only mean more scoring opportunities for the second year back. Laurence Maroney was explosive in 2006, scoring 16 touchdowns as the second tailback on the Patriots. Getting the majority of the touches ranks Maroney higher this season and my pick as a huge sleeper in fantasy football.

Willis McGahee, Baltimore Ravens
Willis McGahee should see the end zone much more in Baltimore, where the strength of the offense is their rushing attack. His draft status in fantasy football will probably be late second to the early fourth round. His potential to be a feature back in fantasy football is big and if you happen to snag him in the middle of the draft, consider yourself lucky.