As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the spotlight is shining brightly on potential new additions for NFL teams as they assess talent in the collegiate ranks. Notably, the New England Patriots, under the guidance of newly appointed head coach Mike Vrabel, are eyeing the Oregon Ducks' standout running back, Jordan James, as a significant prospect to bolster their roster.
James captured the attention of Patriots scouts when the team met with him in Eugene, Oregon, just a day before Oregon's Pro Day on March 22, 2025. This meeting signifies New England's commitment to strengthening their running back position, particularly given the ball security issues exhibited by last season's starting running back, Rhamondre Stevenson, who fumbled six times during the 2024 season. With zero fumbles in 386 career college rushing attempts, James emerges as a compelling option for the Patriots.
“Extremely impressed with Oregon RB Jordan James. . . . He’s extremely mature in his approach at the position and was as well-spoken an athlete that has been up at the podium this week,” remarked Ryan Fowler of the Draft Network during his coverage of the NFL Combine, indicating James's readiness and potential to succeed in the NFL.
Standing at 5 feet 10 inches and weighing 210 pounds, James has impressed scouts not just with his ability to carry the football but also with his physical play style and intelligence on the field. Moreover, his performance in the 2024 season was noteworthy, as he totaled 1,267 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns, finishing his Oregon career tied for fifth all-time with 31 rushing touchdowns.
In addition to the Patriots, James's visibility in the draft landscape has risen significantly. He is expected to be drafted between the third to sixth rounds, with some forecasts even suggesting he could surprise and land on Day 2 of the draft, depending on team needs. “I want to say this right now. . . . Jordan James is the most underrated running back in this class,” declared Todd McShay, a former ESPN NFL Draft analyst, highlighting the player's potential impact on whichever team selects him.
Meanwhile, across the league, other teams are ramping up their efforts to prepare for the upcoming draft. The Dallas Cowboys have been a topic of discussion, particularly surrounding Ohio State's Quinshon Judkins, who has created a buzz after a viral workout video displayed his strength and agility. Judkins's performance at the NFL Combine included a remarkable 4.48-second 40-yard dash, further affirming his position as a top contender. Fans have begun to imagine him as a prime solution for the Cowboys' need for a robust running back alongside current options like Deuce Vaughn, Malik Davis, and Hunter Luepke.
Since signing Javonte Williams to a one-year contract on March 13, 2025, Dallas appears to be seeking more firepower in their backfield. With mock drafts indicating a strong possibility of selecting Judkins in the early rounds, he has emerged as a player to watch in the draft process.
Judkins's proficiency as a three-down back is notable, as he averaged 246 attempts for 1,262 yards and 15 touchdowns throughout his collegiate career, along with 59 receptions for 442 yards and an additional five touchdowns. His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game positions him as a versatile asset that many teams crave.
Yahoo Sports has forecasted growing enthusiasm around Judkins potentially securing a top-three pick among running backs in the first round of the draft, which would mark a notable achievement—the first time since 2018 that three running backs are projected to be selected in the opening round. His physical style of play and ability to absorb contact could resonate well with teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, as mentioned by Charles Robinson.
As for the Patriots, if not James, they might consider Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty with their first-round selection, depending on how the draft unfolds. Jeanty has gained a reputation as an explosive athlete, making him a potential frontrunner for New England if James is drafted early.
The upcoming 2025 NFL Draft will take place from April 24-26 at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin, gathering immense attention from fan bases across the league. NFL observers are already speculating over the prospects of previous draft records being broken, with mock drafts suggesting that 10 to 11 Oregon Ducks could be selected this year, surpassing last year’s record of eight.
“Now our goal is to see how high every one of those guys can get drafted,” remarked Oregon coach Dan Lanning, showcasing the pride and anticipation surrounding his players as the draft nears.
The stage is set, and excitement is building as teams prepare to make pivotal decisions on future stars. The Patriots and Cowboys illustrate how the running back class is raising eyebrows and proving critical as teams identify prospects who can transform their rushing attacks.
