The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be an exciting event for running back enthusiasts, with a deep pool of talent poised to make a significant impact in the league. Among the top prospects are Quinshon Judkins from Ohio State, Kaleb Johnson from Iowa, Ashton Jeanty from Boise State, and Omarion Hampton from North Carolina, each bringing their unique skills to the table.
Quinshon Judkins, who made headlines after transferring to Ohio State, played a pivotal role in leading the Buckeyes to a National Championship in his lone season. Judkins showcased his abilities by finishing the season with 1,060 rushing yards and 16 total touchdowns. His performance has garnered mixed reviews among draft analysts, with some seeing him as a top-three running back prospect. Rob Gregson ranks him as the No. 3 running back in the 2025 class, while another analyst places him at No. 13, citing concerns about his vision and agility. Despite these critiques, many believe Judkins possesses the power and explosiveness to thrive in the NFL, drawing comparisons to Joe Mixon.
Kaleb Johnson, another name to watch, had a standout season at Iowa, where he racked up 1,537 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns. His impressive performance has led to comparisons with Najee Harris, and he’s projected as a top-50 prospect in the draft. Johnson's ability to navigate through traffic and his powerful running style make him a valuable asset for any team. He excelled in a run-heavy offense, demonstrating his capability to handle a heavy workload, making him a potential fit for teams looking for a reliable running back.
Ashton Jeanty from Boise State is also generating buzz as a top-10 prospect in the draft. His remarkable speed and agility, combined with a knack for breaking away from defenders, have made him a favorite among scouts. Jeanty averaged an impressive 7.0 yards per carry during the 2024 season, showcasing his ability to be both a bell cow and a big-play specialist. His performance has drawn comparisons to legendary running back LaDainian Tomlinson, and many believe he could be the face of a franchise in the NFL.
Omarion Hampton, another standout running back, has seen his stock rise significantly leading up to the draft. Having led the ACC in rushing yards for two consecutive years, Hampton's combination of size, speed, and power makes him an intriguing prospect. He has been compared to Jonathan Taylor, and his ability to accelerate quickly and break tackles makes him a highly sought-after player in this year's draft class.
In addition to these top prospects, the draft class features a variety of other talented running backs, including TreVeyon Henderson, Dylan Sampson, Bhaysul Tuten, and Brashard Smith, each bringing their unique skills and strengths. Henderson, who played alongside Judkins at Ohio State, averaged 7.1 yards per attempt during his final season, proving he can be a significant contributor at the professional level. Meanwhile, Sampson's agility and big-play potential could make him a valuable asset for teams looking to add speed to their backfield.
As the Chicago Bears prepare for the draft, they are keenly aware of their needs at the running back position. Following a disappointing season, where D'Andre Swift struggled to make an impact, the Bears are looking to bolster their roster. TreVeyon Henderson has emerged as a potential target for Chicago, who may look to pair him with Swift to create a more dynamic rushing attack. Henderson’s proven ability to catch passes out of the backfield adds to his appeal as a three-down back, making him an ideal candidate for the Bears’ revamped offense.
Moreover, the Bears have made significant changes to their offensive line, trading for guards Jonah Jackson and Joe Thuney and signing center Drew Dalman. This emphasis on improving their blocking scheme should provide a better environment for whichever running back they select in the draft. As they look to rebuild, adding a talented running back could be a crucial step in their quest for success.
With the 2025 NFL Draft just around the corner, teams are evaluating their options and preparing for what promises to be a thrilling event. The depth of talent at the running back position ensures that there will be plenty of exciting prospects available to help franchises improve their ground games. Whether it’s Judkins, Johnson, Jeanty, or Hampton, there are numerous players who could make an immediate impact in the NFL.
As fans and analysts alike anticipate the draft, the running back class is one of the most discussed topics, with each prospect bringing their unique strengths and potential to the table. The excitement surrounding this year’s draft is palpable, and the running backs are sure to be a focal point as teams look to find their next star players.
