The 2011 NFL Draft doesn't sport a great class of running backs. But Illinois' Mikel Leshoure is one of the better ones and he has decided to go pro instead of returning to school for his senior season. Leshoure's mother, Jazz Jones, broke the news during a Monday interview and her son made it official Tuesday. "I believe I've accomplished everything I can at the college level and want to go after my dream of playing in the NFL," Leshoure said. "I've had a wonderful experience at the University of Illinois and will always consider myself an Illini." Leshoure set school records with 1,697 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns this season. He also had nine 100-yard games in 2010. He saved his best for last as he ran for 330 yards against Northwestern at Wrigley Field on Nov. 20 and then shined in Illinois' win over Baylor in the Texas Bowl with 184 yards and three touchdowns.

Fantasy Analysis:

I watched that entire game against Northwestern and Leshoure was nothing short of amazing. From the mocks I've seen, he could be the top running back in the draft or he could be available in the third or fourth round. He's a strong, bulky back -- six-foot, about 230 pounds -- who isn't afraid of contact, but isn't much of a receiver. He may not have considerable fantasy value immediately, but he's a player to watch depending on where he lands.