Training Camp Preview Part 2: Running Backs

The second part of Miami Dolphins Nation's Training Camp preview features possibly the most talented and deep position on the Dolphin's roster. The Dolphin's rush offense ranked 11th in the league last season which is pretty impressive considering defenses didn't have to respect the deep pass could commit more to stopping the run. There is no reason to think Miami won't improve that ranking this season with a revamped offensive line and with Ronnie Brown at full strength after having a full off-season of workouts.

Projected Depth Chart

1. Ronnie Brown: There is no doubt Ronnie is the most talented back on this team and maybe the most talented player. The only question is how good can he be. We have seen glimses of greatness from him throughout his career, whether it be the five TD's against the Patriots, him leading the league in total yardage in 2007 before going down with a tore ACL, or all of those highlights of him trucking defenders. However, it just doesn't seem like he has ever reached his full potential, whether it be the ACL injury or him splitting carries with Ricky Williams. I mean its hard to believe that Ronnie has only made it over the 1,000 yard barrier once in his career. But, this season I just get the feeling that this kid is due for a great year. In my opinion he has the talent to be a top 5 back in this league, but it just hasn't all come together for him yet. On this team it would be hard for anyone to run for 1500 yards, with Ricky getting 100+ carries and the potential for Pat White to get some reps in the wildcat formation. However, during OTA's Ronnie looks to be in the best shape of his life and getting the majority of the carries. This might finally be Ronnie's year to finally be the stud we all know he is. Expect new career highs in yardage and touchdowns.

2. Ricky Williams: Ricky did a great job of contributing last season with over 600 yards and provided a great one-two-punch with Ronnie. He is getting up there in age and is obviously not the same back that he used to be but, he still has the talent to be a great number two in this league. However, expect his production and carries to drop some this season as Ronnie becomes more of the featured back in this offense, but at least he has played his way out of being hated by Dolphins fans as most people don't even remember the early retirement and failed drug tests.

3. Patrick Cobbs: This guy does it all, he was all over the field last year rushing, receiving, and playing special teams. He is not the most talented guy out there, but he is just a hard-nosed do it all guy. Cobbs didn't even run for 100 yards last year, but when called upon averaged over seven yards a carry. Cobbs led all Dolphins running backs with 295 receiving yards, including a 80 yard touchdown, which is pretty darn good for a number three. Expect, Cobbs to continue to have a role in this offense and on special teams this year, and maybe even get more opportunities.

4. Lex Hilliard: Was a 6th round pick out of Montana in the 2008 draft. Didn't get any playing time last year during the regular season but carried 24 times for 68 yards in the pre-season.

5. Anthony Kimble: Is an undrafted free agent out of Stanford. Kimble posted very good numbers at Stanford running for 717 yards on only 120 carries and 6 touchdowns.

Position Battles: There really are no position battles depth chart wise besides Hilliard and Kimble and that will likely be for a roster spot. However, Ronnie and Ricky will battle for a split carry role or Ronnie being more of the featured back. Early signs show that Ronnie's role is already increasing but, Ricky will still get his opportunities especially early on. As of right now expect Ronnie carries to increase from last season and Ricky's will most likely decrease but, if Ricky can get hot he will continue to get carries.

Roster Spot Battles: Lex Hilliard will battle with Anthony Kimble for the final running back spot on this roster as the Dolphins will most likely only keep four running backs. Hilliard has the size as he weighs in at over 240 but Kimble is a faster back. Who can make the biggest impact on special teams will most likely decide this battle.
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