The Cincinnati Bengals shocked a lot of people (not me) when they made former Tar Heels’ running back, Giovani Bernard, the first running back selected in the 2013 NFL Draft, early in the second round.  Bernard was my No. 1 rated running back of this year’s class and is a multi-dimensional weapon.  But the big question here, is what kind of fantasy production will the rookie back have in 2013? Let’s take a look and try to figure that out. 

As you can see in the table above, Bernard put up big numbers in his two years starting for North Carolina, particularly in 2012; leading the ACC in rushing yards, yards from scrimmage, punt return yards-per return and punt return touchdowns.  He was also in the top three in rush attempts, yards per carry, rushing touchdowns, and total touchdowns.  He completely dominated ACC defenses on the ground, in the passing game and as a punt returner. 

While the Bengals still have BenJarvus Green-Ellis on the roster, he’s very one dimensional and doesn’t bring the explosive, game-changing ability to the offense that Bernard does.  Yes, “The Law Firm” put up a respectable 1,157 rushing yards (good for 12th best) last season and finished the year with 157 fantasy points (18th best running back), but he’s now at the dreaded 28-30 age range where most running backs SERIOUSLY decline, almost instantly.  It’s hard to imagine that Green-Ellis will continue to be a top-20 running back for very long. 

For this upcoming season, It’s highly likely that the Bengals will utilize Green-Ellis for short yardage and goal-line situations and lean on Bernard as their primary back, as well as in the passing game.  In 2012 Bernard also showed a serious knack for returning punts and the Bengals could even look to use him on special teams.  In the end, Bernard is a very solid RB1 option in standard, PPR and dynasty leagues and should put up very respectable numbers in his rookie campaign. 

2013 Stat Projections: 232 carries, 1,250 rushing yards, 40 receptions, 450 receiving yards and 18 total touchdowns.