The long off-season is almost over and fantasy football time is upon us. In breaking down the key to fantasy success, it is well known that the running back position is the most crucial.

This year it appears that there are more quality options than in previous years, which will help people to avoid reaching for less than solid running backs in the second round of their drafts.

LaDainian Tomlinson is clearly in a league of his own and the consensus number one choice, but the next tier of backs have plenty to offer, as well.

Steven Jackson and Frank Gore are both coming off career years and their pass catching ability out of the backfield increase their value substantially.

Larry Johnson and Shaun Alexander appear to be on the downside of their careers based on wear and tear, but still score a lot of touchdowns and will put up plenty of fantasy points as they are the primary ball carrying options for their teams.

Joseph Addai, Brian Westbrook, Willie Parker and Reggie Bush should all build upon last years success and are excellent first round options. 

At this point in the draft things get a little more intriguing. The next group of running backs can still carry your team and give you great depth at the position.

Travis Henry is new to Mike Shanahan's offense, but we have all seen what the Denver coach can do with mediocre talent and Henry is very well suited for the Broncos run blocking scheme.

Laurence Maroney is the man in New England and should excel without Corey Dillon there to vulture touchdowns.

Willis MaGahee, Ronnie Brown and Cedric Benson all have the opportunity to blossom and put up big points as the main options on there teams.

Clinton Portis, Brandon Jacobs, Maurice Jones-Drew and Thomas Jones will be sharing some carries, but each have the potential to put up solid numbers. 

The depth is evident when following each of the names listed above, however, there are still players remaining, such as Duece McAllister, Fred Taylor and Marion Barber, who can likely be had at a bargain price.

Then there are the rookies – Marshawn Lynch for the Buffalo Bills and Adrian Peterson for the Minnesota Vikings, who have significant upside and are of great value especially in keeper leagues.

There are other sleepers that I did not mention as well, but as you can see there are plenty of backs who can lead you to the fantasy football mountain top and in contrast to years past, success in regard to running backs can be had even after L.T. and L.J. are off the board!