20. Laurence Maroney, New England Patriots
Maroney had only 185 carries last year, and the Patriots' spread attack doesn't lend itself to big rushing numbers. When they needed it most, he produced, but he needs to be more consistent.

21. Jamal Lewis, Cleveland Browns
Age and injury may ultimately end Lewis' Cinderella ride sooner than later. But he plays in a balanced offense with a strong passing game, and his power-running style is a perfect fit behind the strong left side of the Browns' line.

22. Brandon Jacobs, New York Giants
Jacobs is big but is also deceptively fast and good in the open field. He also runs behind an underrated line. However, injuries have plagued him, and Ahmad Bradshaw and Derrick Ward will once again compete for carries, limiting Jacobs' production.

23. Earnest Graham, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Bucs are starting to collect running backs like they are quarterbacks. Graham, a north-south power runner, works best between the tackles, so he may need some complementary speed help. He is also a reliable receiver in Jon Gruden's offense.

24. LenDale White, Tennessee Titans
White is the starter, and coach Jeff Fisher is committed to the run, but the former USC star will share carries and has yet to show signs of being the breakout player Tennessee had hoped he would be.

25. Julius Jones, Seattle Seahawks
There was a time not too long ago that Jones was the starter in Dallas and that meant something. Although he may be substituted in certain situations, he will be the starter in Seattle. Jones is a strong perimeter runner and could flourish if given a chance to stay on the field often.

Maybe next year?

The top breakout candidate to crack the top 25 for '09:

Jonathan Stewart, Carolina Panthers. Stewart is the total package, a speed back who can also run with power and catch the ball. DeAngelo Williams has been given every chance to win the job and just hasn't done it.

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