Replacing star RBs, WRs

Which teams are best-positioned to replace top players from 2012?

Originally Published: January 18, 2013

By KC Joyner | ESPN Insider

For the second year in a row, there are a record number of collegiate players declaring early for the NFL draft. When those losses are added to the seniors heading for a shot at the professional football ranks, it can make for a very rough go for teams having to replace these players.

Having said that, there are more than a few cases in which a team is slated to lose a high-impact starter, but should be able to absorb the defection with little loss or, in some situations, might actually see an improvement in production.

Here are five situations that fit this description.

Alabama Crimson Tide

Departing player: Eddie Lacy

Lacy could not have picked a better time to declare for the draft. His 2012 season saw him rank third in the SEC in rushing yards, and tied for second in rushing touchdowns, while carrying the load as the lead ballcarrier on a national championship team.

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