The running back position seems to be up for grabs for a lot of teams each season. The season opener was a perfect example, as Pierre Thomas, Mark Ingram and Darren Sproles got action out of the backfield for the New Orleans Saints, while James Starks and Ryan Grant split the action for the Green Bay Packers.
As of 10:15 p.m. EDT, Starks was available in 46% of Yahoo! fantasy leagues, Thomas was available in 37%, and Sproles was still up for grabs in 51%. All three men will quickly be signed, as they all looked great at various times. Just like these men are opening eyes with their opening night performance, what other backups could make a fantasy splash in 2011?
Jason Snelling
The Atlanta Falcons backup running back saw considerable action over the past two seasons, and has averaged 4.1 yards per carry during his career. Should starter Michael Turner struggled or be injured, Snelling could make a big impact for Atlanta.
Montario Hardesty
The backup to Peyton Hillis with the Cleveland Browns could get some action this season. Hillis had a great start to the 2010 season, but as the season wore on and his body was getting hit, he broke down. Hardesty could be used to spell Hillis from time to time, and could become a star this season if Hillis were to suffer a serious injury.
Delone Carter
With Peyton Manning seemingly done for the year following his third neck surgery in 19-months, the Indianapolis Colts may rely more on the running game than they have during the Manning era. If that is the case, the injury prone Colts backfield could see the rookie from Syracuse get a serious look from Coach Jim Caldwell.
Daniel Thomas
At this point, nobody knows how much Reggie Bush will actually play this season with the Miami Dolphins. He has struggled to stay healthy for a good portion of his professional career, and should injury be an issue again in 2011; Thomas could be a fantasy season-saver, much like Hillis was a year ago. The second round selection from Kansas State has great speed and great hands, which NFL quarterbacks love.
For a look at season recaps for the Atlanta Falcons, go here for easier access.
More from this contributor:
Must Sit Players for Week 1
Drafting Individual Defensive Players?
Top 2011 Fantasy Football Rookies
Roddy White Best Receiver in NFL
Keys to 2011 Falcons Success
Hobson Lopes is a fan of the Atlanta Falcons, thanks to Deion Sanders.