Peterson impresses, Henry surprises

Adrian Peterson put up an impressive unofficial 4.38 40-yard time at today's combine which should solidify him as the top RB and a lock for a top ten pick.

Marshawn Lynch's 40-time was less impressive. Lynch was looking to run a sub 4.40. Instead he ran an unofficial 4.52. (Lynch's official time was 4.46)

The fastest unofficial 40-time was turned in by Chris Henry of Arizona. Henry blazed a 4.33 40-yard dash. At 6' and 230 pounds, Henry is an intriguing prospect. Henry was a seldom used reserve his first two seasons at Arizona and only put up 581 yards last season as a junior. He looks to have all the physical talent, but where was the production in college?

Russell will sit, Peterson and Lynch will perform

The bad news, JaMarcus Russell announced he won't perform any drills this weekend at the combine.

The good news, Adrian Peterson and Marshawn Lynch will perform all combine drills including the 40-yard dash. Both players said they expect to run in the 4.3-4.4 range.

Running back group weak in 2007

The last two drafts have spoiled NFL teams with a bevy of future stars. However, 2007 will be a weak draft for future NFL running backs. There isn't a single senior RB projected as a first rounder, only juniors Adrian Peterson and Marshawn Lynch are guaranteed first round picks.

Top seniors Michael Bush and Kenny Irons both had disappointing 2006 seasons. Bush missed the entire season after breaking his leg in the first game and could return to Louisville next season as a medical redshirt. If he enters the draft, he won't have much of a chance to workout for scouts. Doctors have said he won't be fully recoverd till early March.

Irons battled injuries and inconsistency all season. He'll need to show up big in the Senior Bowl, combine, and pro day to get himself back into the first round.

This group is a far cry from last year's Bush, Maroney, Williams, Addai, White and Drew.

Lynch to enter 2007 NFL Draft

As expected, California running back Marshawn Lynch said he will skip his senior season to enter the NFL draft. Lynch was the Pac-10's offensive player of the year after rushing for a conference-best 1,356 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Lynch is expected to be a first round pick and some think he could be drafted over Adrian Peterson.

Lynch impressive in perhaps his final game at Cal

In probably his last game at California, Marshawn Lynch ran for 114 yards and two touchdowns to lead the Golden Bears to victory in the Holiday Bowl. Most expect Lynch to skip his senior year and enter the 2007 NFL draft.

Look for Lynch to get drafted in the top half of the first round as he is the total package for a running back prospect. He has very good size and is a good interior runner. He also has the elusiveness to make people miss, the speed to outrun defenders, and is a play-maker in the passing game.

Lynch over Peterson on Draft Day

Six months ago no one thought Marshawn Lynch would be drafted higher then Adrian Peterson. That is now a possibility. Both are excellent backs and if they declare, probable top ten picks. But while Peterson finished the season with another injury, Lynch is putting the finishing touches on another impressive year.

The Cal junior has compiled over 1400 total yards, 9 TDs, and sports a 6.3 ypc average. Lynch is the perfect size for a RB at 5-11 and 215 lbs. He's a good interior runner and can break tackles, yet has the elusiveness to make people miss, and the speed to outrun defenders. He also has the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield and make big plays in the passing game.

Peterson is faster and taller then Lynch, but hasn't been able to stay healthy. Some scouts are worried that with his long frame, Peterson runs upright and opens his body up for punishment and injury. The junior also hasn't been involved in the passing game at Oklahoma and doesn't have the receiving skill that Lynch does.

Their final draft order won't be decided till draft day and a lot will be determined during post-season workouts, but there is now a possibility that Peterson won't be the first RB off the board during the 2007 NFL draft.