Between the emphasis on the passing game, backfields by committee, and the realization that good running backs can be found later in the draft, first-round running backs are becoming a rarity.

It’s 22 days until go-time for clubs looking to fill holes in their roster… 22 days as we count down the Path to Primetime. So what does the number 22 signify in our NFL draft conscious?

Based on the current state of things around the NFL, it’s tough to find any news that has major fantasy significance (sigh). So when several coaches and other organizational leaders discussed the state of their teams during the annual Owners Meetings, you can only imagine how quickly I jumped on the information.

The Saints were on the clock on “Path to the Draft” on Wednesday and Mike Triplett of the New Orleans Times-Picayune joined the show to discuss where the team could be heading in the draft. The Saints could be in a tough spot with a potential 26 unrestricted free agents and one of the highest payrolls from last season. And the team would still like to lockup QB Drew Brees long term.

As I expected, Marcell Dareus and Mark Ingram did not disappoint Wednesday.

RB Mark Ingram is participating in his pro day at Alabama on Wednesday, looking to follow in the footsteps in another former Crimson Tide back who made it big in the NFL — Shaun Alexander. But Alabama is more known for its quarterbacks that it has churned out.

But who is the tops?

If you’re looking for a deep sleeper to monitor this offseason, remember the name Lex Hilliard.

Since the lights are still on at Lucas Oil Stadium, here’s a look back at what we saw, learned and heard on Day 4 of the Combine.

Here’s a look at how some of the top quarterback and wide receiver prospects measured out Saturday at the NFL Scouting Combine.

And now for a few thoughts, observations and highlights as we wrap up Day 2 of the NFL Scouting Combine.

With the NFL Scouting Combine right around the corner (starting Feb. 24 on NFL Network), more than 300 prospects will descend upon Indianapolis to impress coaches, scouts and team executives. But that’s only the beginning of their journey, hopefully, to the NFL.