The Sporting News released their latest mock draft and it has the Packers taking Chris “Beanie” Wells of Ohio State.  Oh wait, my apologies to Buckeye fans, the would be The Ohio State University.  How snooty is that whole thing by the way?

Anyhoo, do you see the Packers taking a RB with the ninth overall pick?  I know they could use someone who can play the first half of the season as well as the second half.  I think they could accomplish that with some better blocking up front.  But, without the blocking an elite back can make the line look a lot better.  The problem with Wells is not that he can’t run.  It’s whether or not he can stay on the field.  From a pure talent standpoint, he’s the best back in the draft and if he can stay healthy he could be special.  Given his history that’s a big if.  Taking him in the top 10 is a risk of Kijana Carter proportions. 

You remember him, don’t you?  The uber-talented running back from Penn State the Cincinnati drafted in the first round only to watch him blow out his knees and never live up to his potential.  If Wells could be healthy, he could be one of the best backs in the league and someone will certainly take that chance.  I guess its a matter of no risk, no reward.  It just seems there are other positions and players available at that point in the draft that could provide a big return with lower risk.