Fantasy source.(fantasy football)

PLAY ACTION by GEORGE WINKLER

Forget the old standard that you must use your first two draft picks on running backs. If the 2003 season proved anything, it's that high-quality backs can be had much later--like after Week 6 on the waiver wire. The trick is figuring out where to draft this season's surprises heading into next season.

Domanick Davis, Texans. Despite not starting until Week 7 and being inactive for two games, Davis rushed for 1,031 yards and eight touchdowns in his rookie season. What makes his future even brighter is that he is a pass-catching threat (47 receptions, 351 yards) in an offense with burgeoning talent around him. Projected '04 pick: second or third round.

Rudi Johnson, Bengals. Corey Dillon likely has played his last game in a Bengals uniform. That's great news for Johnson, who rushed for 957 yards and nine touchdowns despite having to share the workload. An average of 4.5 yards a carry helped him pile up numbers quickly. Projected '04 pick: second or third round.

Brian Westbrook, Eagles. A 5-8, 200-pound dynamo, he can score as a runner or as a receiver. He also took two punt returns the distance this season. His versatility helped him lead the team with 13 scores, and his touches will increase with Duce Staley likely to leave the Eagles. Projected '04 pick: third or fourth round.

Onterrio Smith, Vikings. The season was frustrating at times for his owners, but Smith turned out to be worth the wait. Filling in for injured starter Michael Bennett, Smith rushed for 148 and 146 yards in Weeks 15 and 16. His value could rise or fall depending on the Vikings' plans for Bennett and Moe Williams. Projected '04 pick: fifth or sixth round.

M@IL BONDING