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2013 marked the first time no running backs were drafted in the first round of the NFL Draft since the 1960′s, and it was an even bigger surprise that the Cincinnati Bengals made North Carolina’s Giovani Bernard the first back off the board in the second round (37th overall).
Bernard had a very productive two seasons for the Tar Heels, after being medically redshirted due to a torn right ACL in 2010, with over 1,200 rushing yards each season, 92 combined receptions and 33 total touchdowns (25 rushing, six receiving, two punt returns). He gained some positive buzz through the pre-draft process, drawing some comparisons to Ray Rice of the Baltimore Ravens along the way due to his similar build (5’8″, 202 lbs.) and all-around skills. Can the rookie make a significant impact for fantasy football owners in 2013?
BenJarvus Green-Ellis had a productive first season with the Bengals in 2012, setting career-highs in carries (278), rushing yards (1,094) and receptions (22) while starting 15 games. But one of Cincinnati’s top priorities this offseason had to be finding a back with better versatility to complement “The Law Firm”, and Bernard fits that bill.
How the workload will be split between Green-Ellis and Bernard is unclear at this point, but Bernard should get an opportunity to earn a significant role as an every-down player due to his ability as a pass catcher. Green-Ellis was effective in a short yardage and goal line role with the New England Patriots in 2010 and 2011, with 24 combined rushing touchdowns, so he could easily move back into a similar role this coming season.
With Green-Ellis likely vulturing rushing scores, Bernard’s touchdown total is unlikely to be impressive during his rookie season. But it would not be surprising to see him finish as the highest-scoring rookie running back in PPR leagues, and I think he has the potential to be a solid low-end RB2 or high-end RB3 regardless of scoring format.
Brad Berreman is a contributing writer at Rant Sports.com. Follow him on Twitter @bradberreman24.
