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Fantasy Football Preview 2013: Six rookie RBs every owner needs to know

By Zachary Thompson

Dec 9, 2012; Tampa FL, USA; An NFL logo is seen on the field after a game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 9, 2012; Tampa FL, USA; An NFL logo is seen on the field after a game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /
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Montee Ball-Denver Broncos

May 10, 2013; Englewood, CO, USA; Denver Broncos running back Montee Ball (38) during rookie minicamp at the Broncos training facility. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
May 10, 2013; Englewood, CO, USA; Denver Broncos running back Montee Ball (38) during rookie minicamp at the Broncos training facility. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /

Upside: Ball was a big-time rusher at Wisconsin and is getting a shot at the Broncos starting job. He’s a strong runner between the tackles and is already getting first-team reps at Denver’s camp. The Denver offense is expected to be among the best in the league meaning their running back will have big-time value even though he’s alongside Peyton Manning in the backfield.

Downside: Manning will throw for a ton of touchdowns this year meaning there will be weeks that the Denver RB’s are just extra blockers for him. Ball does have competition in camp from Ronnie Hillman and Knowshon Moreno and a dreaded running back by committee is a distinct possibility.

Verdict: Ball could be the top rookie running back on this list if he was assured of playing time. Right now, I’d take him third behind Bell and Bernard, but if he earns the starting roll during preseason he could jump to the top of the list. If you can get him as your third RB, don’t hesitate to pull the trigger.

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