Speed, elusiveness and versatility are three key attributes that fantasy owners should always be looking for out of their running backs. They are also adjectives that describe the abilities of backs LeSean McCoy of the Philadelphia Eagles, and Jamaal Charles of the Kansas City Chiefs. With the ability to break off huge touchdown runs at any moment in a game, these two should be chosen early in all fantasy drafts this coming season. So with such similarities in skill- sets, who should be taken earlier?

Jamaal Charles, Running Back, Kansas City Chiefs:

Charles came off of an injury in 2011, and showed fantasy owners why he was still worthy of being considered a top back in the league. Since entering into the league in 2008, he has never averaged less than 5.3 yards per carry, and last season posted a career high of 1,509 rushing yards on 285 attempts. The only drawback from Charles’ game in 2012 was his lack of touchdown production. Despite only producing five touchdowns, he managed to finish as the no. eight fantasy back. While the Chiefs were the worst team in the NFL last season, they look to be much improved. With additions of quarterback, Alex Smith, and tight end, Anthony Fasano, the Chiefs should be a much more formidable opponent in 2013. However, the addition of head coach, Andy Reid, could put a huge dent in Charles’ fantasy value this coming season. Coming over from the Philadelphia Eagles, Reid is not only bringing over a new level of excitement, but also his outrageous run/pass ratio. With a pass-happy philosophy, Reid could be the cause of much frustration for the fantasy owners of Charles. However, he still deserves to be taken early in all fantasy drafts.

2013 Stat Projection: 250 rushing attempts, 1,400 yards rushing, 6 rushing touchdowns

LeSean McCoy, Running Back, Philadelphia Eagles:

There are few other running backs in the NFL that I am as high on as McCoy for this coming season. New head coach, Chip Kelly, should be able to get the best out of him, and in what should be a run-heavy offense, I expect McCoy to excel. If he can stay healthy for a full year, he should provide fantasy owners with great value. While he should be taken early in all drafts, he could easily be one of this year’s top-five fantasy rushers. Do not hesitate to take McCoy early, but if for some reason he slips into the third or fourth round, he should be a no-brainer selection.

2013 Stat Projection: 295 rushing attempts, 1,650 yards rushing, 15 rushing touchdowns

In Comparison:

I think Charles will be selected higher than McCoy in almost all fantasy drafts this coming season, as he deserves. However, I believe that McCoy will produce much better fantasy numbers this year. Having either player on your roster should translate to wins, and owners everywhere should be happy with the opportunity to select either one.