As the 2025 NFL Draft unfolds, excitement is palpable among fans and analysts alike, especially with the selection of standout players who are set to make an impact in the league. Among the most talked-about prospects is Quinshon Judkins, a running back from Ohio State, whose journey has captivated many. Judkins declared for the 2025 NFL Draft in January after a remarkable college career that showcased his talent and potential.
Before transferring to Ohio State, Judkins made waves at Ole Miss, where he broke school records as a freshman in 2022. He rushed for an impressive 1,567 yards and scored 16 touchdowns on 274 carries across 13 games, earning him the SEC Freshman of the Year honors, a first-team All-SEC selection, and the prestigious Conerly Trophy as Mississippi’s top college player. His performance set the stage for a promising future.
In 2023, Judkins continued to impress, accumulating 1,158 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns on 271 carries, once again securing first-team All-SEC honors. His decision to enter the transfer portal and join Ohio State for the 2024 season proved to be a pivotal move, as he helped lead the Buckeyes to a College Football Playoff Championship. By the end of the season, he earned third-team All-Big Ten honors, further solidifying his status as a top-tier running back.
Judkins stands at 6 feet tall and weighs 221 pounds, showcasing a powerful build that complements his playing style. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.48 seconds, placing him in the 81st percentile among running backs. His college career statistics are impressive, with a total of 739 carries for 3,785 rushing yards and 45 touchdowns, alongside 59 receptions for 442 yards and 5 touchdowns. In total, he has amassed 4,227 rushing yards over 42 games, averaging 100.6 yards per game.
At the NFL Combine, Judkins ranked fifth among running backs with a total score of 83, reinforcing his stock as a workhorse back with three-down potential. Analysts have noted that while he may lack elite breakaway speed, his consistency and ability to break tackles make him a valuable asset. His projection as a third-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft is well-founded, with The Bleacher Report suggesting he could be selected 73rd overall by the Las Vegas Raiders, while Dalton Miller of the Pro Football Network has him going 83rd overall to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Meanwhile, the 2025 NFL Draft has already seen significant action, with Round 1 completed and 32 players finding new homes in the league. As teams prepare for Day 2, a plethora of talent remains available, including top-ranked players like Michigan cornerback Will Johnson and Marshall edge rusher Mike Green. The Cleveland Browns, in particular, are poised to capitalize on this opportunity, holding two of the first four picks in the second round and a total of four picks on Day 2.
Among the best remaining players on the draft board, Will Johnson is ranked 11th, while Mike Green follows closely at 14th. Other notable players include Luther Burden III (WR, Missouri) at 24th, Donovan Ezeiruaku (EDGE, Boston College) at 25th, and Shedeur Sanders (QB, Colorado) at 26th. The depth of talent available is a testament to the strong recruiting classes and development programs across the country.
As teams strategize and finalize their selections, the anticipation builds. The Browns, with their two early second-round picks, are in a prime position to enhance their roster significantly. With the draft landscape still shifting, the excitement of potential trades and selections keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
In a related note, the Los Angeles Chargers made headlines by selecting North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton with the 22nd overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This choice reflects head coach Jim Harbaugh’s commitment to building a powerful, run-heavy offense. Hampton, who stands at 5 feet 11 inches and weighs 221 pounds, rushed for 1,660 yards and 15 touchdowns as a senior, averaging an impressive 5.9 yards per carry during his college career.
Chargers General Manager Joe Hortiz expressed enthusiasm for the selection, highlighting Hampton’s production and potential to thrive in the NFL. “We’re fired up to get him. I feel like we got stronger and better today,” Hortiz stated. Pairing Hampton with Najee Harris, a free agent addition, creates a formidable backfield duo poised to make significant contributions.
Hampton’s college production speaks volumes, with over 1,500 rushing yards in back-to-back seasons, earning him first-team All-American and All-ACC honors in 2023 and 2024. His ability to gain yards after contact is particularly noteworthy, ranking second in the country with 2,294 rushing yards after contact since 2023. However, analysts have pointed out areas for improvement, particularly in vision and pass protection.
Despite these concerns, the Chargers view Hampton as a tone-setter who can complement Harris effectively. With Harbaugh’s emphasis on a strong running game, Hampton is expected to receive ample opportunities to showcase his skills and contribute to the team’s success.
As the 2025 NFL Draft continues, the stakes are high, and teams are eager to secure the talent that will shape their futures. With players like Quinshon Judkins and Omarion Hampton entering the league, the excitement surrounding this draft is palpable. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as teams make their selections and build their rosters for the upcoming season.
