The Washington Redskins discovered a rare talent in Ryan Torain last season, but with the young and powerful running back's inability to stay healthy for any stretch of his career, Mike Shanahan will surely need reinforcements in the backfield. The team added Roy Helu and Evan Royster in the 2011 NFL Draft, but could look to bolster its running back core in free agency. Carolina Panthers veteran DeAngelo Williams is by far the top running back available.
Pros: If you were smart enough to draft Williams in your fantasy league in 2008, then you know what he can bring to the table. Williams rushed for 1,515 yards and a league-leading 18 touchdowns that season. He also happens to be used to splitting the load with another capable running back, as he's done with Jonathan Stewart in Carolina the past three seasons, and as he'd be expected to do with Torain in Washington.
Cons: While 27 may not sound old, it's already approaching over the hill for running backs in today's NFL. Williams missed 10 games last season due to injury.
Verdict: The Redskins have many needs, but with the development of Torain and a wealth of incoming potential, running back isn't necessarily one of them. The Redskins could add solid depth at the position without breaking the bank on Williams.
Other free agent running backs: Cedric Benson, Joseph Addai, Ronnie Brown, Ahmad Bradshaw, Mike Bell, Darren Sproles.
For more on NFL free agency, visit our StoryStream listing key 2011 NFL free agents the Redskins could target. Also, be sure to check out SB Nation's Redskins blog Hogs Haven.