Camp Countdown: Running Backs

Training Camp 2009 is scheduled to begin with the first practice on the morning of Aug. 2, and it figures to be an intriguing summer for the Dolphins. We take a look at the Dolphins heading into camp by breaking down the team by position with an analysis of the biggest issue at each spot and a projection of the roster battles. This installment looks at the running backs.

RUNNING BACKS

On the roster: RB Ronnie Brown, RB Lex Hilliard, RB Ricky Williams, RB Patrick Cobbs, RB Anthony Kimble, FB Chris Brown, FB Lousaka Polite

Number likely to be kept: 4

On the 2008 opening-day roster: RB Ronnie Brown, RB Ricky Williams, RB Patrick Cobbs, FB Boomer Grigsby

The big training camp question: Can any of the three young players do anything in camp and the preseason to convince Tony Sparano and his staff to keep them over the four established veterans?

Analysis: Just like quarterback, the Dolphins appear completely set here. There's talent and depth at this position, so much so that Patrick Cobbs might not get many snaps on offense despite doing nothing but producing whenever his number is called. Brown should be even better this season now that he's almost two years removed from his severe knee injury and Williams is still going strong despite turning 32 in May.

Who will make the team: Brown, Williams, Cobbs, Polite