By Dean Michaels, NFL Writer

Darren Sproles
Darren Sproles

In 2011, New Orleans Saints running back-return specialist Darren Sproles showcased his versatility, setting the single-season NFL record for combined net yards with 2,696 (1,089 kick return, 710 receiving, 603 rushing, 294 punt return).

"After breaking the record, you would have thought that's what he had planned to do the whole time, the minute he stepped foot in our building," says Saints quarterback DREW BREES. "That's what I love about him. There's not a guy that works harder than him at practice, that practices harder than him, that approaches this game with a bigger level of pride than him. He's got a big heart, and that's all that matters."

Sproles' versatility has created problems for opponents trying to defend him.

"He is tremendous and I am a big fan of his," says Carolina Panthers head coach RON RIVERA. "The Saints use him the way you're supposed to. He can play the dot for you in a two-back set. He can play the off-set back for you in shotgun. He can play a wing. You can put him in motion. You can bring him back in. The young man poses a lot of headaches for coordinators and head coaches that are defensive minded."

NFL players with the most combined net yards in a single-season in NFL history

Player Team Year Combined Net Yards
Source: NFL
Darren SprolesNew Orleans20112,696
Derrick MasonTennessee20002,690
Michael LewisNew Orleans20022,647
Lionel JamesSan Diego19852,535
Fred JacksonBuffalo20092,516

Darren Sproles: Mister Versatility - NFL's Best Players Profile 2012