Jason Snelling

Snelling had just 3.4 YPC on 44 rushing attempts last season but remained a vital part of the team on third downs, as he’s easily the Falcons’ best back in pass protection. He re-signed with Atlanta on a three-year deal during the offseason, so expect more of the same in 2012. Michael Turner remains the undisputed workhorse, but he’s 30 years old and has surpassed 300 carries in three of the past four seasons. If Turner were to go down, the Falcons would employ a timeshare, but while Jacquizz Rodgers may be a more exciting option, Snelling would likely lead the team in touches.

When Michael Turner left the field last season, the offense rarely missed a beat. That’s because Snelling, who also brings receiving skills to the table that Turner doesn’t possess, is capable of running between the tackles the way Atlanta’s offense requires. He could lose some third-down work to rookie Jacquizz Rodgers; however, his value is more dependent on Turner’s health.

Snelling started two games last season and recorded career highs in attempts (142), yards (613) and touchdowns (4). If Michael Turner and Jerious Norwood are healthy, Snelling will struggle to repeat those numbers.

Snelling might not make the team. Second-year runner Thomas Brown offers much more upside as well as kick return potential, and Norwood and Turner have the real workload locked down. In addition, his versatility as a potential fullback is made less noteworthy due to Verron Haynes' presence.

Snelling saw most of his carries in short-yard situations in 2007, but the acquisition of the bigger and stronger Michael Turner hurts Snelling's chances at retaining that job this season. Snelling may get some work on special teams, but we expect he'll have a minimal presence on offense for the Falcons in 2008.

Snelling's best chance to make the team appears to be as a fullback, as the Falcons have a lot of options at the halfback position. The Falcons signed Ovie Mughelli to replace Justin Griffith, but Snelling could stick around as his backup.