There are three running backs likely to be taken in the first round of Saturday's NFL Draft.

One has a history of injuries. The other hasn't proven he can run between the tackles. The third left school a year early and has run into some trouble with the law in the last three months.

If there is a silver lining to all of this, it's that running back is the easiest position for a blue-chip player to step in and make immediate contributions.

"It's not as big an adjustment for the backs as it might be for the quarterbacks and the receivers," said Ernie Accorsi, general manager of the New York Giants. "Receivers and quarterbacks have to learn the details of the passing game.

"The backs just run."

That's not entirely true. Marty Schottenheimer was reluctant to use rookie running backs until they had a firm grasp of pass-blocking schemes. However, in terms of basic duties, most would agree that making a splash as a rookie is most common at running back.

"The natural instinct is to run the ball," Chargers president John Butler told Sports Illustrated. "There's a lot less to learn for a back than maybe some of the other positions."

One thing is certain: If a team uses a high pick on a back, it expects immediate productivity.

That said, Cleveland will likely have its choice of running backs with the No. 3 pick on Saturday. It must choose between Mississippi's Deuce McAllister, who -- when healthy -- is the best overall back in the draft; TCU's LaDainian Tomlinson, who led the nation in rushing last year despite the knock that he can't get tough yardage inside; and Wisconsin's Michael Bennett, whose character has been questioned by recent brushes with the law.

All three have the ability to make an impact, but on draft day, there's a fine line between, say, Curtis Ennis and Edgerrin James.

"It's a gamble," said Terry Bradway, the New York Jets director of football operations. "Every pick in the draft is a gamble."

Here are the top 10 running backs available in Saturday's NFL Draft:

Deuce McAllister, Mississippi -- The most complete running back in the draft. If he can shake the knock of being fragile, he'll be the first back selected.

LaDainian Tomlinson, TCU -- Led the nation in scoring last year. Some scouts wonder if he can do it at the next level.

Michael Bennett, Wisconsin -- The fastest back in the draft. He will go in the first round despite character issues.

Kevan Barlow, Pittsburgh -- Has been compared to Curtis Martin and was the best back at the Senior Bowl.

Travis Henry, Tennessee -- Knows how to play running back. He will be productive at the next level.

LaMont Jordan, Maryland -- Could be the sleeper of this crop, a Pro Bowl back in the making.

Anthony Thomas, Michigan -- His stock has risen because of his ability to play either running back or fullback.

James Jackson, Miami -- The latest in a long line of Hurricanes to make a splash at running back.

Rudi Johnson, Auburn -- Was the SEC offensive player of the year, but doesn't have the burst necessary to be an every-down back in the NFL.

Hodges Mitchell, Texas -- Small, but extremely quick. A team looking for a third-down back can do worse than Mitchell.

Fullbacks

Dan Alexander, Nebraska -- A gifted all-around talent. Big and fast. The best fullback in the draft.

Ja'Mar Toombs, Texas A&M -- If he can control his weight, he is the prototypical NFL fullback -- big and bruising.