Survivor I - Rudi Johnson Commentary

NOTE: this draft was completed on 7/24

Recent Stats

YR	RSH	RSHYD	RSHTD	REC	RECYD	RECTD	FPT	RANK
2002	17	67	0	6	34	0	10.1	110
2003	215	957	9	21	146	0	164.3	19
2004	361	1454	12	15	84	0	225.8	8

Positives - Rudi is a powerful runner who had decent speed through the hole. He had a great year last year (1450 yds / 12 rtd.), and there’s nothing stopping him from repeating. He faced a tough schedule last year, and this year with an easier schedule on paper and an improving defense, he should have more chances to grind it out. Palmer having his first full year complete under center can only help Rudi. Opposing D’s will always have to respect the downfield threat of Chad Johnson, giving Rudi some decent space to work with.

Negatives - Rudi doesn’t catch very many balls (15), and he is not as explosive as some of the other backs in the league. He may also lose some time to Chris Perry this year.

Draft Strategy - I was surprised that Rudi was here at this point in the third round. This was one of my quickest picks of the draft. With Barber and Lewis, I know have 3 backs that could all end up in the top 10 if things work out right. Was eying either Joe Horn or Reggie Wayne here, but they went right before me at 3.2 and 3.4. Again, RB represents strong value as there is a possibility to start three each week.