Where Will Trent Richardson Go?

Added on Apr 26, 2012 by Scott in

NFL

One of the more intriguing storylines heading into tonight’s opening round of the 2012 NFL draft is the landing spot for Alabama running back Trent Richardson. The consensus top runner and only one with a legit first-round grade, Richardson should come off the board at #4 to Cleveland. After all, he is considered by some pundits to be the most skilled back since Adrian Peterson. But what if the Browns pass on him? Which other teams are interested? Let’s take a look.

Cleveland Browns (#4) – Again, if the Browns elect to go quarterback or defense, it would be somewhat of a surprise. With Peyton Hillis in Kansas City and Montario Hardesty an injury waiting to happen, Richardson just makes sense with this pick. He’s tough, fast and an excellent receiver out of the backfield. Whether it’s Colt McCoy under center or someone else, the big ‘Bama back will alleviate the pressure.

Tampa Bay Bucs (#5) – LaGarrette Blount’s inconsistency and fumbling woes have already placed him on new head coach Greg Schiano’s watch list. Trent lost one fumble in 614 career touches in college. That stat alone is enough for the Bucs to pull the trigger if he’s there at #5. They’ll likely go defense, but players like Richardson don’t come along very often.

St. Louis Rams (#6) – The rumors that Steven Jackson would be upset if the Rams took Richardson (or another back later) have been growing louder in recent days. Whether they are true or not is irrelevant, because odds are wide receiver Justin Blackmon will be the selection. However, if Blackmon is off the board, Richardson might be the next best option. Jackson will be 29 in July, and with over 2500 touches in eight seasons, he’s definitely entering the downside of his career.

Miami Dolphins (#8) – The ‘Phins have glaring needs all over the place, but running back isn’t one of them. Reggie Bush and Daniel Thomas should be plenty to carry them in 2012 and beyond, as long as Bush plays like he did at the end of last season.

Carolina Panthers (#9) – DeAngelo Williams. Jonathan Stewart. Mike Tolbert. They wouldn’t, would they?

If Richardson falls out of the Top 10, then some seriously wacky things will have to occur. But this is the NFL draft, so anything is possible.