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.

Broncos' Bell, Plummer for Houston's first?

The Denver Post is floating a rumor which has the Broncos sending Jake Plummer, Tatum Bell, and draft picks to the Texans in exchange for Houston's first round pick (8th overall).

This sounds like pure speculation from the writer, but we felt we'd pass it along in case it has more substance. It also suggests that Bell is on the block and Plummer has certainly played his last down as a Broncos QB.

The Broncos are rumored to want Adrian Peterson and they'll need a trade like this to have any shot at him. Although, if Peterson is available at the 8th spot, the Texans would jump at the chance to grab him, which makes this trade scenario even less likely.

Browns desperate to draft Peterson

According to John McClain of the Houston Chronicle, someone "well-connected" with the Browns has convinced him that they want Adrian Peterson desperately.

We are still a long way from the draft and this could be a smokescreen, but the top of the draft is starting to take shape. The Raiders are rumored to want JaMarcus Russell, the Lions - Joe Thomas and now the Browns - Peterson.

Oklahoma's Peterson to enter NFL Draft

Oklahoma junior running back Adrian Peterson will skip his final year of eligibility and enter the NFL Draft, according to two sources close to the situation. An official announcement could come as early as Thursday.

Adrian Peterson is a true franchise back. He’s a playmaker and a workhorse. He has durability concerns, but his potential will make him a top 10 pick.

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.

Peterson will play in Fiesta, last game at OU?

Oklahoma runningback Adrian Peterson returned to practice on Friday and is expected to play in the Fiesta Bowl. Peterson has been out since he broke his collarbone Oct. 14 against Iowa State. The junior is expected to enter the 2007 NFL draft and should be a top ten selection. Peterson has all the skills to be a star in the NFL. He's big and strong, but still has room for more growth. He couples that size with excellent speed, and very good athleticism. The only concern with Peterson is his inability to stay healthy.

Texans 2007 draft debate

The Houston Texans shocked the world last year by passing on Reggie Bush and selecting Mario Williams with the first overall pick. Houston should have a top five pick for the 2007 draft and the debate has already begun on who they should select.

Do they give up on David Carr and take a shot at Brady Quinn? After passing on Bush, do they add a franchise RB like Adrian Peterson? Or upgrade their defense again with Gaines Adams?

Peterson looks to be the obvious choice, however if Kubiak follows his blueprint from his days as the Denver OC, running back will never be a high selection. Instead he'll choose to develop a low-round RB to fit his system. All his 1000 yd backs were drafted in the 4th round or later, except for one. Terrell Davis (6th Rd), Mike Anderson (6th Rd), Oladis Gary (4th Rd), Reuben Droughns (FA), Clinton Portis (2nd Rd). It seems unlikely they will give up on Carr, so defense could the choice.

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.