Mike Anderson

Anderson posted the second 1,000-yard season of his career in 2005, ending up as the Denver feature back by default more often than not, as Tatum Bell failed to capitalize on his opportunities. Now with the Ravens, Anderson will fill the same insurance policy role he held with the Broncos and wait patiently for Jamal Lewis to break down. As with all running backs who come down from the mountains, Anderson will have to prove he can still be productive without his blocking scheme creating massive holes for him. Anderson has relatively low mileage on him, but anything over 30 is old for a ball carrier, and Anderson, who will turn 33 in September, is virtually prehistoric.

Anderson, who is returning from a groin injury that ended his 2004 season, entered training camp No. 1 on the depth chart. He's drawn praise from the coaching staff and has been the most consistent running back thus far in camp. Even if Tatum Bell eventually emerges as the starter as most expect, Anderson figures to see time in short-yardage and possibly goal-line situations.

Anderson, who rushed for 257 yards and three touchdowns in 2003, will be in the fold for the starting tailback job. However, you'll have to wait it out until the end of training camp to figure out who wins the battle.

2002 was Anderson's first season as a fullback and his numbers reflected that. He gained 386 rushing yards with two touchdowns while adding 167 receiving yards with two touchdowns. His production in 2003 should be the same with Clinton Portis firmly entrenched as the tailback. However, we believe if Portis were to go down, Anderson would get the first shot at tailback.