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Backfield in motion A look inside the draft's top QBs and RBs
It's ironic that the consensus top pick in the 2001 NFL Draft is a quarterback -- because one of the most compelling components of Michael Vick's game is his ability to run the football. While Vick and Drew Brees are the only two quarterbacks with a chance of going in the first round, there's a strong collection of running backs who are likely to hear their names called before the start of Round 2. LaDainian Tomlinson came into the winter projected to be a second-round selection. Teams were concerned about the style of offense he played at TCU and the relatively weak competition he faced. But his performances at the Senior Bowl, the combine and his personal workout have turned Tomlinson into the top running back prospect. At 5-foot-10 with 4.4 speed, he's a faster version of Emmitt Smith, and at 218 pounds he's durable and tough enough to excel in the NFL. For most of the past year, Mississippi's Deuce McAllister was considered the blue-chip back, and he'll still be a high first-round pick. While durability remains the big question, his style reminds me of the former Viking Chuck Foreman -- with an open-field burst like Eric Dickerson -- and I expect McAllister will be able to play every down and distance situation in the NFL. Michael Bennett's off-the-field problems may have caused his stock to drop somewhat during the past month, but he should still go in the first round. At Wisconsin, Bennett displayed rare speed, and though he could struggle early in his career, he should blossom into a very good NFL back. LaMont Jordan's stock has gone the opposite direction. In fact, the guy who gained more than 4,000 yards at Maryland has moved himself into the first round with strong showings in the postseason bowl games. He has great power and is hard to bring down. Travis Henry ran in Jamal Lewis' shadow at Tennessee, but he left as the school's all-time leading rusher. Henry's consistency and determination could make him a guy who could carry the ball 30-plus times a game. As a rookie last year, Lewis helped the Ravens reach the Super Bowl. Ron Dayne, also a rookie, helped the Giants get there as well. With that kind of precedent, the premier backs in this draft class are going to be expected -- and needed -- to make immediate impacts. Pat Kirwan, who spent 12 years as a pro football coach, scout and personnel administrator, is an NFL analyst for CNN/Sports Illustrated and a regular contributor to CNNSI.com. Chat with Pat at 1 p.m. EDT Wednesdays.
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