2009 Fantasy Football Player Profile-Marion Barber III

RB Marion Barber III, Dallas Cowboys

2008 Stats: 885 rushing yards, 417 receiving yards, 9 total TDs
Projected 2009 Stats:  1079 rushing yards,  400 receiving yards, 14 total TDs
Projected Fantasy Round: 1st Round
Running backs to be picked ahead of Marion Barber: Adrian Peterson, LaDainian Tomlinson, Michael Turner, etc.

Fantasy Outlook:

Why you should draft Marion Barber:  Barber had some injury issues in 2008, but he still racked up 1302 all-purpose yards and nine total touchdowns.  Over the last three seasons, Barber has averaged over 12 touchdowns per year.  Barber has also increased his receptions every season he has been in the NFL, including last year where he hauled in 52 passes. 

Why you may want to stay away from drafting Marion Barber:   In 2008, Barber was limited to under 60 rushing yards in eight contests, and he was held scoreless the last three games of the season.  In addition, Dallas has vowed to give Felix Jones more touches in 2009, which could mean less opportunities for Barber. 

Bottom Line: If Barber is healthy in 2009, his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield and his nose for the end zone make him an upper tier, No. 1 fantasy running back.