Fresh off the press are my 2012 Week One Running Back Rankings for this week. I, and other owners, were ecstatic that Maurice Jones-Drew finally ended his holdout Sunday. But temper that enthusiasm. Even though MJD is back, it's still going to be Rashad Jennings in at starter against the Vikings. But don't fret. We'll see MJD in about two-to-three weeks back to his old self.
There are a few debuts this year with Buccaneers Doug Martin making his first NFL start against the Panthers. I have him ranked a bit low compared to the matchup, but I protected myself just in case Martin has a brain fart, which I doubt we'll see. Browns Trent Richardson is also set to make his NFL debut against the Eagles. However, unlike Martin, I think Richardson's points could be hard to come by against an Eagles Defense that improved it's front seven over the offseason.
With that said, lets see which players I think could blow up, surprise and those who you might want to consider leaving on the bench this week. Don't forget that it looks highly doubtful that Chargers Ryan Mathews will play this week, leaving Ronnie Brown as the starter. Although, well, you'll see he isn't ranked very high.
Along with the running back rankings, make sure to check out the rest of the rankings in our rankings section.
MAJOR UPDATE (9/6) It looks like Marshawn Lynch's back problems will keep him out of this weekend's game against the Cardinals, although he has yet to be ruled out. With that said, Robert Turbin could be a sneaky low-end RB2/flex option.
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Keep An Eye On:
Jonathan Stewart - For now, Stewart is a game-time decision against the Buccaneers due to an ankle injury. He's been held out of practice, but that could be because the team wants him healthy for Week One. If he plays, I love him as a possible RB2 against a pretty crappy Bucs Defense. Of course, if J-Stew does play, it will also knock Williams' value as an RB1 down to an RB2. Both of these guys could have great games this week.
