2016 AFC North Rankings by Position: Running Backs
By Joe Serpico
No. 3: Baltimore Ravens running backs Justin Forsett, Buck Allen and so many more
The Ravens have added so many running backs this offseason that it makes you wonder what the plan is at the position. They have six backs on the roster – Justin Forsett, Javorius Allen, Lorenzo Taliaferro, Terrance West, Trent Richardson and Kenneth Dixon – who are all capable of not only making the team, but having a significant role on offense. This group is one of the top position battles to watch as the Ravens head into the regular season.
Forsett will likely get the first crack at the starting gig as he has been the team’s primary option the last two seasons until a broken arm ended his 2015 season early. He has been the primary guy for the Ravens since the team released Ray Rice, accumulating 2,323 total yards and 10 scores since becoming the starter.
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The knock on Forsett is his age as he will be 31 by the time the season ends. That could be the reasoning for the Ravens having a plethora of young backs behind. Allen took over as the lead guy once Forsett went down and did a solid job. We knew he would be a terrific receiver out of the backfield, which was clear in a 12-catch performance against the Miami Dolphins last season. He did not necessarily run away with the job either.
Allen is one of three running backs the Ravens have drafted in the fourth round in as many years. Dixon was taken in the fourth round just a few weeks ago and has a strong chance of making the team. Taliaferro is another fourth-rounder should not be forgotten about. He was the backup last year until a foot injury knocked him out for the year.
Ozzie Newsome also has two former Browns backs that have attracted some attention in the league. Richardson was the No. 3 pick in the 2012 draft, but has been a colossal bust. West is a local product from Baltimore that was drafted by Cleveland, but so far, has failed to live up to his third-round choice. Both have an opportunity to make an impression this preseason, even if they do not make this team.
The Ravens have talent at the position and cannot keep them all. They will go with the backs they feel make the the best group for Marc Trestman’s offense, but no one is guaranteed a spot. There is a lot of competition at running back for Baltimore, but having too much talent is better than having none.
Next: The Latest in the Browns Running Back Circus