The excitement surrounding the 2025 NFL Draft is building, particularly for the running back position, where two names are generating substantial buzz: Dylan Sampson of Tennessee and Quinshon Judkins of Ohio State. As the draft approaches, analysts and fans alike are keenly evaluating their performances and potential fit in the professional landscape.
According to recent updates from Draft Wire, Dylan Sampson is currently ranked as the seventh best running back in the upcoming draft class. Formerly a key player for the Volunteers, Sampson stood out during his time at Tennessee, racking up impressive statistics over three seasons. He logged 2,492 rushing yards and scored 35 rushing touchdowns while also contributing in the passing game with 40 receptions and 342 receiving yards.
Jeff Risdon from Draft Wire noted, "Sampson is nifty and runs smart, seemingly always finding the best path at just the right time." While he is known for his quick feet and ability to create space, some criticize his tendency to forget his size when running inside, which might require adjustment at the next level.
Sampson also showcased his skills at the NFL Combine, where he recorded a vertical jump of 35 inches, a broad jump of 10 feet and four inches, and completed 13 bench press repetitions. Despite not participating in the 40-yard dash, his performance demonstrated athleticism that could captivate NFL teams.
On the other side, Quinshon Judkins is making headlines not only for his solid stats but also for the significant impact he made on Ohio State's success last season. Judkins transferred from Ole Miss after a noteworthy two-season run where he amassed 2,725 rushing yards and 31 touchdowns. His strong performance continued with the Buckeyes, where he rushed for 1,060 yards and scored 14 touchdowns across 16 games.
A highlight of Judkins’ career was during the national championship game against Notre Dame, where he scored twice on the ground and added a receiving touchdown, further elevating his draft stock.
As the draft date nears, Judkins is being evaluated closely by scouts. Reports indicate that he possesses good size and runs with a high level of contact aggression. His future as a potential first-round pick has been debated extensively. "He's a borderline Day 1 NFL talent who likely won’t be taken until the 2nd round," analyst Sal Vetri remarked.
Moreover, Judkins demonstrated impressive athletic metrics at the NFL Combine, registering a broad jump of 11 feet, a vertical leap of 38.5 inches, and a swift 40-yard dash time of 4.48 seconds. These numbers all paint a picture of a dynamic athlete ready for the next level.
While the competitive atmosphere intensifies, the recognition of these rising stars occurs against the broader narrative of college football and its influence on the NFL Draft status. Deion Sanders, a former NFL star now coaching at Colorado, has also attracted attention for his remarks about the mental toughness of players, emphasizing that preparation is key in the lead-up to the draft.
The 2025 NFL Draft promises to be an exciting event not just for its top-tier prospects but for the teams searching to fill key roles in their lineups. As for the budding careers of Sampson and Judkins, this draft could mark the beginning of a new chapter as they transition from collegiate stars to professional athletes.
With Sampson and Judkins setting their sights high, they lead a group of talented players that includes other notable names like Ashton Jeanty of Boise State, and several others, all vying for their chance in the NFL spotlight. The anticipation grows as NFL teams begin final preparations and scouting reports are compiled in the weeks leading to the draft.
Ultimately, whether it’s Sampson’s nimble footwork or Judkins’ blend of size and speed, fans will have much to watch for at the 2025 NFL Draft. As teams assess their options, each player will look to cement their legacy as not just drafted players but as future NFL stars.
