Throughout the summer, 3GML beat writers from across the country will be breaking down the position groups for each of the seven 3GML franchises. The assigned point values will assist with our 2017 3GML pre-season rankings and projections!
RUNNING BACK
BUFFALO BILLS
2017 Lead Back(s): Todd Gurley II (82) & James White (80)
Breakdown: Todd Gurley found more attention focused on him following his 2015 MVP campaign during what was (by his lofty standards) a down season. Gurley would surely offer that he's happy holding the 2016 Lombardi trophy instead of the wearing the league MVP crown. With James White set to fill in admirably as a nice change-of-pace pack, look for Gurley to continue to take advantage of deep coverages (the Rodgers-effect) and to finish with another 1,200+ yard season.
Depth: Kenneth Dixon was a nice addition for depth at the position, but the team will need to find a 4-game replacement as the RB is set to serve a 4-game drug suspension to start 2017.
Writer #1: 8
Writer #2: 7
MIAMI DOLPHINS
2017 Lead Back(s): Eddie Lacy (84), Latavius Murray (83) & Duke Johnson Jr. (80)
Breakdown: It's hard to count out the Dolphins running game. This team is the definition of ground and pound. Due to the nature of their offense, the Dolphins will lean on three backs to carry the load. The complimentary nature of Lacy, Murray, and Johnson should lead to defensive front sevens being worn out by the 4th quarter. One would imagine that they will each have their own packages in the Dolphins offense and, as long as each is OK with ten carries a game, look for more of the same success from this squad.
Depth: D'onta Foreman & James Conner add some great depth. Conner will likely play Fullback to start but is a back of the future. Foreman was a great pickup and with Conner, will likely feature heavily in upcoming seasons.
Writer #1: 8
Writer #2: 8
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
2017 Lead Back(s): Jonathan Stewart (85) & Dion Lewis (81)
Breakdown: With the selection of Alvin Kamara, the Patriots chose their back of the future who may turn into their year one lead back. Jonathan Stewart is 'long in the tooth' and Dion Lewis is not an every down back. Look for Kamara to end the season with the most Patriots touches.
Depth: The team may look to add a fourth back to the mix once the pre-season rolls around.
Writer #1: 7
Writer #2: 7
NEW YORK JETS
2017 Lead Back(s): David Johnson (90) & Jordan Howard (82)
Breakdown: The Jets probably have the most versatile back in Johnson. He is capable of 2,000 yards rushing and 1,000 yards receiving if everything goes right. Their offensive line only makes this backfield more dangerous. Howard was a steal and only adds to this 3GML favorite.
Depth: Paul Perkins, Dalvin Cook, & Jamaal Charles are all capable in their own right. Perkins is a bruiser and Cook could be one of the best backs in the league before you know it. If Charles can regain a fraction of his old self, look for another weapon out of the backfield.
Writer #1: 9
Writer #2: 10
CURRENT 3GML POINTS (LEAGUE RANKING)
Buffalo Bills: 55
New York Jets: 55
New England Patriots: 48
Miami Dolphins: 42
Tomorrow: WR/TE breakdown...
