Fantasy football: Scouting the running backs

Joseph Addai, Colts: Indianapolis has been dreadful running the ball the last few years and coaches are promising that will change. Addai, who has a nose for the end zone, could be a gem as a No. 2 back.

Marion Barber, Cowboys: He's notorious for wearing down as the season progresses. For whatever it's worth, Felix Jones (218 pounds) reported to camp heavier than Barber (214). That might tip the scales (ahem) in Jones' favor.

Cedric Benson, Bengals: Not only did Benson set a career high with 301 carries, his 4.2 yards per carry also was a personal best. Benson has never played a full season, so be sure to handcuff him with Bernard Scott. (Sorry, Bengals fans. Didn't mean to use Benson and "handcuff" in the same sentence.)

Michael Bush, Raiders: Has more of an upside compared to backfield mate Darren McFadden, but deserves to be no more than bye-week roster filler.

Arian Foster, Texans: Had two terrific games to end last season and appears to have parlayed that into the starting job. Hate to dismiss the local guy, but forget Steve Slaton for now. Foster is the guy you want.

Ryan Grant, Packers: As his eight games with less than 65 yards rushing last season indicates, consistency is the only thing keeping Grant from being a top 10 overall pick. He sustained a concussion in preseason that doesn't appear threatening at this point. Still, it's worth noting that Brandon Jackson is Grant's immediate backup.

Shonn Greene, Jets: The apple of many fantasy players' eyes after running for 135 and 128 yards in two playoff games. Don't reach too high, however. The addition of LaDainian Tomlinson could spell trouble for Greene in the red zone.

Frank Gore, 49ers: After Gore finished strong last year with three 100-yard games in his last four, it's worth noting that San Fran closes 2010 with favorable matchups at St. Louis and home to Arizona. Rookie Anthony Dixon, and not Brian Westbrook, is the handcuff to have if/when Gore gets hurt.

Steven Jackson, Rams: Ran for 1,400 yards last year even though everybody in the stadium knew he was getting the ball. St. Louis will be better than 1-15 (5-11, maybe) and Jackson will score more than four TDs. Would you settle for eight?