Running Backs

[BAMARICH]

With what Terry and Earle are kicking around on the football board (KD going pro looks fairly likely), I believe this shakes things up for all potential recruits in this area (especially for Grant and Eason). Playing time would seem to be more readily available at Bama for both of these guys than at any of their other possible destinations. BTW, if KD does jump pro, then the door opens wide for any one of our four signees from 04 to get the job with hard work and determination (also provides Mike Ford one more reason to get qualified... hope he was already).

 

[Love the Ping]

I'm not as in the know as those guys, but from the quotes attributed to KD lately, I don't think he is leaving.

Any recruit coming in is going to have a battle, with or without KD, though. Coffee and Johns both look like good players to me. Upchurch has great ability if he can recover, and who knows about Ali Sharrieff? Terry Grant is our best hope IMO, with Dixon probably second best.

 

[runtheoption22]

When of his HS coaches posts on another board, and KD told him he was coming back. However, what Terry was alluding to was the fact that KD said a "late first, early second" would entice him to come out-- and that could be a distinct possibility since the potential list of RBs in this years draft is relatively low. His draft status COULD get that high.

 

[UAB-CT]

So, who would be some of the top backs for next year for the draft? maybe Peterson, leaving early? I think KD could be considered one for next year. If he is injury free, with a better OL infront of him, I think he could have great year next year. That is if he doesn't have to split too much time with others.

 

[derek4tide]

Will KD announce after the bowl game

or wait a few more weeks?

 

[bayoutider]

I haven't said much about this situation. What I know is KD's mother wants him to come back. Coach Woods want him to come back. Coach Shula has been brutally honest with KD telling him if he can be a first or second round pick he shold look at that option. KD has said Coach Shula is the most honest coach he has played for. I know the coach rto is speaking of and he talks with KD on a regular basis. He also doesn't post anything that should be kept quiet unless it is on a private, invitation only, forum.

 

[Love the Ping]

If Darby comes back, obviously he is the starter and will probably snag another 1,000 yard season and probably leave UA as the school's all-time leading rusher.

If Darby doesn't come back, the rest of those guys are going to have a tough time beating out Jimmy Johns. He looks more and more comfortable at that position as the season moved forward. He has learned to not run quite so straight-up, and he is a specimen, plain and simple. I can't wait to watch his career progress.

 

[derek4tide]

Johns moves so well

and his power is scary. I see him making a move for a starting job somewhere on the field next year. Maybe RB or LB, but somewhere. He could even give JPW a run for his money as well.

 

[Love the Ping]

Rader and Croyle in bowl practices both said they expect JJ to do some big things at RB during his career at Alabama. He could see him playing FB in spots, but I don't want him to add too much weight. He is a specimen right now and can move so dang well. I don't think defense is in his future anymore.

 

[bamabryan]

I am not in the know, but I just don't see KD turning pro.

Of course you never know about injuries, but I think it's in his best interest to come back. Unless he gets hurt (which is always a possibility), I think his stock will only improve.

Regardless if he comes back or not, I worry a little about keeping all the rb happy...KD (maybe back/maybe not), Jimmy Johns, Mike Ford (assuming he makes it, which some of the guys on this board who seem to be in the know thinks he will), Coffee, Upchurch, Sharrief.

KD is the man provided he comes back.

Possible position change for one or two guys?

He keep reading JJ will stay at rb...I love his ability and there are flashes of greatness.