Top 10 Running Backs in the 2025 NFL Draft
Top 10 Running Backs in the 2025 NFL Draft
By Jason Bolton April 21, 2025 11:36
The 2025 NFL Draft running back class is a rare blend of depth and star power, headlined by Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty—a prospect some scouts call the best in a decade. From bruising power backs to elusive all-purpose threats, here’s how the top 10 stack up based on film, stats, and insider evaluations.
1. Ashton Jeanty (Boise State)
Jeanty’s 397 touches in 2024 led the FBS, producing 1,847 rushing yards, 22 touchdowns, and a highlight reel of broken tackles. His 5’8½”, 211-pound frame and Alvin Kamara-esque versatility make him a first-round lock. “He’s the best RB I’ve scouted since Ezekiel Elliott,” NFL Network’s Maurice Jones-Drew said. Jeanty’s 102 forced missed tackles (second in FBS) and reliable pass-blocking cement his three-down potential.
2. Omarion Hampton (North Carolina)
Hampton’s 1,504 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns came with a punishing 6.1 yards per carry. At 6’0” and 221 pounds, his 4.46 speed and jump-cut agility drew comparisons to a young Steven Jackson. “He’s a first-round talent in any other year,” a Panthers scout told The Athletic. Concerns about his heavy workload (289 carries) linger, but his balance through contact (3.9 yards after contact per rush) quiets doubters.
3. TreVeyon Henderson (Ohio State)
Henderson’s 1,254 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns showcased his breakaway speed (4.34 40-yard dash) and improved patience. “He’s a home-run hitter who learned to take singles,” Buckeyes coach Ryan Day said. Durability questions (19 missed games since 2021) might push him to Day 2, but his 17 career 20+ yard runs scream upside.
4. Kaleb Johnson (Iowa)
Johnson’s 6’1”, 224-pound frame and 4.57 speed evoke Derrick Henry comparisons. His 1,189 rushing yards and 9 touchdowns featured a knack for outside zone reads, with 37% of his yards coming on runs outside the tackles. “He’s a smoother Arian Foster,” an NFC scout told Yahoo Sports. Improved pass-catching (24 receptions) could make him a Round 2 steal.
5. Quinshon Judkins (Ohio State)
Judkins’ transfer to Ohio State netted 1,132 yards and 16 touchdowns, but his 4.3 yards per carry (down from 5.7 in 2023) raised concerns. “He’s a chain-mover, not a game-breaker,” an AFC executive said. Still, his 29 career touchdowns and north-south physicality (3.8 yards after contact per rush) fit power schemes.
6. Cam Skattebo (Arizona State)
Skattebo’s 1,511 all-purpose yards and 42-yard touchdown pass in the CFP quarterfinals showcased his Swiss Army knife potential. His 102 forced missed tackles (third in FBS) and bulldozer mentality (5’10”, 225 lbs) drew praise. “He’s this year’s Kyle Juszczyk with better wiggle,” a Pac-12 coach told NFL.com.
7. Dylan Sampson (Tennessee)
Sampson’s 1,063 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns came with 4.7 yards per carry, but his 6.8 yards per reception and elite acceleration (4.38 speed) stand out. “He’s a better version of Jahmyr Gibbs,” a Titans scout said. Questions about his size (5’11”, 195 lbs) could limit him to third-down duties early.
8. Devin Neal (Kansas)
Neal’s 1,348 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns highlighted his vision and cutback agility. His 4.48 speed and 24 career receptions add versatility, though his 5’11”, 210-pound frame lacks ideal bulk. “He’s a perfect fit for outside-zone teams like Miami,” ESPN’s Jordan Reid noted.
9. Damien Martinez (Miami)
Martinez’s 1,217 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns featured a bruising 6.2 yards per carry. At 6’0” and 235 pounds, his 3.9 yards after contact per rush scream early-down potential. “He’s a faster LeGarrette Blount,” a Dolphins staffer told The Athletic. Limited pass-catching (12 receptions) caps his ceiling.
10. DJ Giddens (Kansas State)
Giddens’ 1,226 rushing yards and 8 touchdowns came with patient, one-cut precision. His 4.49 speed and 6’1”, 212-pound frame project as a rotational back. “He’s a richer man’s Alexander Mattison,” a Vikings scout said.
The Wildcards
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RJ Harvey (UCF): Led FBS RBs with 1.8 yards per route run but needs more urgency between the tackles.
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Bucky Irving (Oregon): Undersized (5’10”, 195 lbs) but electric in space (6.1 yards per carry).
The Verdict
This class offers something for every scheme: Jeanty’s all-purpose brilliance, Hampton’s power, and Henderson’s explosiveness headline a group that could produce five Day 2 starters. As one NFC GM summarized: “You’re getting a quality back in Rounds 1-4—just don’t expect the next Adrian Peterson.”
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