The Falcons intend to utilize RB Jacquizz Rodgers more as a rusher and receiver in 2012 after he averaged five yards per touch in ’11. Rodgers showed more elusiveness as a receiver than he did as a rusher last season, averaging only 3.6 yards per carry. His longest gain — and only gain longer than 16 yards — came on a 31-yard touchdown reception in Week 14.
With featured back Michael Turner entering his first season over the age of 30, all indications are the team is serious about its intent to keep him on a pitch count. Backup Jason Snelling is able to pick up tough yards between the tackles while spelling Turner, and Rodgers could provide a dynamic element in the backfield. Any comparisons to Saints RB Darren Sproles would be premature, but Sproles’ role in New Orleans is similar to the one the Falcons envision for Rodgers.
This has been a common theme throughout the offseason and it's only going to push Turner's value down even further. We're currently expecting a 10% drop in carries for Turner, but he's still a good bet for double-digit TDs, so he projects to be a very solid RB2. He should provide very good value in the 4th round.
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