RealGM Wiretap
Ray Rice and A.J. Green are two of the most productive skilled position players in the AFC, carrying their respective offenses as much as nearly any non-quarterback in the game.
Rice was a second round pick by the Ravens in 2008 out of Rutgers and quickly supplanted Willis McGahee as the featured back. Rice is a high volume threat and led the NFL in total yards from scrimmage in 2011 while finishing second and third in 2009 and 2010 respectively.
Rice’s usage dropped last season with 257 rushing attempts and 43 receptions, but he still had 1,621 total yards from scrimmage. Rice’s 4th and 29 play against the Chargers will live in infamy, as will the way he was able to grind out 131 yards on 30 carries at Denver in the Divisional Round.
Rice is incredibly elusive when he gets into space and he has also proven to be highly durable. The presence of Bernard Pierce taking some carries from Rice figures to extend his career and allow him to perform at the highest level possible when it truly matters.
Green followed up an outstanding rookie season by catching 97 balls for 1,350 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2012. Green doesn’t quite have the same status as Calvin Johnson, but he similarly is a downfield threat that his quarterback relies upon to win jump balls. The Bengals’ offense is heavily reliant on Green, especially since their running game doesn’t have a dominant back and there isn’t a legitimate No. 2 receiver.
There was never any doubt about Green’s physical gifts at a strong 6-4, but his route running was an issue. Green’s production has been better than expected while continuing to develop the type of savvy at receiver that comes along in time.
Green is likely to post similar numbers in 2013 and his yards per reception could very well slide back up to his rookie season levels (13.9 to 16.3) if the Bengals are able to establish better alternate threats in Giovani Bernard as a multi-dimensional running back, along with Mohamed Sanu and Andrew Hawkins at wide receiver.