By now a lot of my readers have come to the understanding that I am not a huge fan of reaching for a running back too early in the draft. My philosophy doesn't include passing up on the truly elite fantasy 'backs. Instead, it indicates that I don't believe you should be reaching for second-tier RB1's in your draft.

With that in mind, let's take a look at running backs that you could pick up later in the draft who could provide you starting running back production.

Frank Gore, San Francisco 49ers

ESPN projected draft slot: 35.8 (final pick of the second round)

While they have a ton of running back options in San Francisco, Gore still remains their primary ball-carrier in the backfield. He has put up 1,200 total yards in each of the last six seasons, compiling over 1,400 yards four different teams. In the process, Gore has put up a total of 49 touchdowns during this span.

Gore might see his carries go down in 2012, but he will remain healthy and fresh throughout the season. That means you will be able to count on Gore in November and December, something that many fantasy owners had questioned in the past.

Reggie Bush, Miami Dolphins

ESPN projected draft slot: 55.0 (middle of the fourth round)

Bush put up his first 1,000 yard rushing season in 2011 for Miami. He is also a threat to catch passes out of the backfield, as evidenced by the average of 56 receptions he has put up through six NFL seasons.

Moreover, the Dolphins are going to be relying heavily on both the running and screen game with Ryan Tannehill starting the season behind center.

The only thing holding Bush back is the fact that he has to share a backfield with both Daniel Thomas and Lamar Miller. I will say one thing, there is no reason to believe that Bush cannot accumulate over 1,400 yards and double-digit scores in 2012. That puts him right in the middle of the RB1 conversation.