2025 NFL Draft: Scouting the Running Backs

Full scouting summaries on every RB in the 2025 draft

Our look at every draftable player in the 2025 class continues with the running backs.

After a resurgence in 2024’s regular season and playoffs, the back is back. Thank Saquon Barkley for that. But the 2025 draft is maybe the deepest in the modern era of the draft, arriving right on time for NFL teams to once again value a strong running game.

From Ashton Jeanty all the way down the list, here’s our summary of the top 36 running backs in the 2025 class.

Editor’s Note: The original article sent via email included some brief editing notes from our team in the body of the piece. We apologize for this error! - Kyle O’Dell, Managing Editor

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1. Ashton Jeanty – Boise State

Grade: 1st round

Ashton Jeanty isn’t just the best running back in college football — he’s one of the best overall players in the 2025 NFL Draft. A top-10 pick waiting to happen, Jeanty combines rare balance, explosive acceleration, and advanced vision into a complete, NFL-ready weapon. His lateral agility and ability to change direction at full speed make defenders look helpless in space. He runs with power far beyond his frame, consistently bouncing off tacklers and finishing runs with authority. As a receiver, he’s a nightmare matchup — fluid, natural hands and polished routes that make him a true three-down threat. Jeanty’s instincts and football IQ stand out. He anticipates holes before they open and adjusts mid-play without hesitation. He’s scheme-proof — capable of thriving in both zone and power concepts — and brings immediate versatility to any offense. If there’s a nitpick, it’s that he isn’t a 4.3 burner, but his play speed is plenty dangerous. Pass protection technique needs polishing, but he’s willing and physical enough to improve quickly. Jeanty is a franchise-changing talent at running back, with the skill set to dominate from Day 1. If he stays healthy, he’ll be a star — and he’s worth every bit of a top-10 selection.

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2. Omarion Hampton – North Carolina

Grade: 1st-2nd round

A thick, powerful runner, Omarion Hampton dominated North Carolina high school football before starring at UNC. After an early-career ankle injury, he rebounded to lead the ACC in rushing two straight seasons. Hampton is a downhill, physical runner who reads blocks well and presses the line with urgency. Though he lacks lateral flexibility and elite creativity, his patience, power, and burst give him three-down potential. He has reliable ball security and can protect the quarterback, adding value on passing downs. Hampton projects as an immediate NFL contributor with starting-caliber traits, though his heavy collision running style could wear on him over time.

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