The 2025 NFL Draft is still a few years away, but the hype surrounding the running back class is already building. With a number of talented prospects expected to declare for the draft, the 2025 running back class could be one of the best in recent memory. One of the most intriguing prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft is Bijan Robinson. Robinson is a 5-star recruit who is considered to be one of the best running backs in the country. He has a great combination of size, speed, and power, and he is also a very good receiver out of the backfield. Robinson is expected to be a major contributor for the Texas Longhorns in 2023, and he could be one of the first running backs taken in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Another top prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft is Richard Reese. Reese is a 4-star recruit who is considered to be one of the most versatile running backs in the country. He is a very good runner between the tackles, but he is also a very good receiver out of the backfield. Reese is expected to be a major contributor for the Baylor Bears in 2023, and he could be one of the first running backs taken in the 2025 NFL Draft.
The 2025 NFL Draft is still a few years away, but the hype surrounding the running back class is already building. With a number of talented prospects expected to declare for the draft, the 2025 running back class could be one of the best in recent memory. Bijan Robinson and Richard Reese are just two of the many talented running backs who could be available in the 2025 NFL Draft. It will be interesting to see how these players perform in the upcoming college football season and how they stack up against each other in the NFL Draft process.
Backfield Bosses of 2025: Running Backs to Watch
The Top Dog: Nyckoles Harbor
Leading the pack of future gridiron stars is the phenom from Archbishop Carroll High School, Nyckoles Harbor. This 6’5″, 225-pound behemoth has been dominating both sides of the ball as a wide receiver and defensive end. However, it’s his prowess as a running back that has scouts and analysts abuzz. Harbor possesses a rare combination of size, speed, agility, and power. His long strides and deceptively quick burst make him a nightmare for defenders. With his uncanny ability to break tackles and run through contact, he’s poised to become a force to be reckoned in the NFL backfield.
Other Notable Names
While Harbor reigns supreme, several other running backs have also caught the attention of scouts. Here’s a closer look at some of the top prospects:
| Player | High School | Notable Stats |
|---|---|---|
| Luther Burden | East St. Louis Senior | 900+ rushing yards, 20 TDs in 2022 |
| Jaydn Ott | Calabasas High School | 1,650+ rushing yards, 25 TDs in 2022 |
| Domani Jackson | Mater Dei High School | 5* recruit, ranked #1 overall RB |
The League’s Next Generation of Ground Gainers
2. Top Prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft
Bijan Robinson (Texas): The reigning Doak Walker Award winner, Robinson combines blazing speed with exceptional vision and elusiveness. In 2022, he rushed for over 1,580 yards and 18 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to dominate defenses both between the tackles and in the open field.
Rueben Owens (Oregon): The 6-foot-2, 240-pound Owens brings an imposing physical presence to the running back position. He excels as a power runner, punishing defenders with his powerful leg drive and surprising agility. In his sophomore season, Owens rushed for 1,364 yards and 13 touchdowns, proving his ability to handle a heavy workload.
Domani Jackson (Southern Cal): Jackson is a versatile threat who can excel in both the running and passing game. He possesses elite acceleration and top-end speed, making him a dangerous weapon for the Trojans. In 2022, Jackson rushed for 954 yards and 13 touchdowns while also catching 37 passes for 504 yards and four touchdowns.
Derick Hall (Auburn): Hall is another powerful runner who combines size and speed to create matchup problems for opposing defenders. He has exceptional contact balance and runs with a low center of gravity. In 2022, Hall rushed for 1,433 yards and 24 touchdowns, demonstrating his ability to score from anywhere on the field.
Camar Wheaton (Oklahoma): Wheaton is a highly-touted recruit with all the tools to become a star running back in the NFL. He possesses excellent vision, agility, and burst, making him a threat to break big plays at any time. In his true freshman season in 2022, Wheaton rushed for 539 yards and six touchdowns on just 66 carries.
| Name | School | Position | Height | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bijan Robinson | Texas | RB | 6’0 | 215 |
| Rueben Owens | Oregon | RB | 6’2 | 240 |
| Domani Jackson | Southern Cal | RB | 6’1 | 205 |
| Derick Hall | Auburn | RB | 6’3 | 247 |
| Camar Wheaton | Oklahoma | RB | 5’11 | 191 |
Draft Day Destiny: Top Running Back Prospects to Ignite NFL Offenses
The Next King of the Backfield: Evan Hull, Northwestern
Evan Hull has taken the college football world by storm with his electrifying speed, superb vision, and unparalleled ball-carrying ability. In 2022, he emerged as one of the nation’s top rushers, averaging an astounding 6.6 yards per carry and amassing over 1,400 yards on the ground. His remarkable agility allows him to dance through defenses with ease, while his strength and determination make him a force to be reckoned with in short-yardage situations.
Hull’s statistics speak volumes. In three seasons at Northwestern, he has rushed for over 3,000 yards and scored a total of 34 touchdowns. But it’s not just his numbers that impress; it’s his uncanny ability to make game-changing plays from anywhere on the field. His combination of speed and power make him a versatile offensive weapon, capable of both breaking away for long runs and powering through tackles in the red zone.
| Year | Rushing Yards | Rushing TDs | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 418 | 5 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 1,204 | 10 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2022 | 1,410 | 12 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Traditional Running Back | Dual-Threat Running Back |
|---|---|
| Primary role: ball carrier | Primary role: versatile offensive weapon |
| Limited passing ability | Strong catching and pass-catching skills |
| Little involvement in blocking | Effective blocker in pass and run protection |
| Rarely used as a returner | Often employed as a return specialist |
Athleticism Unleashed: Power and Speed Dominate the RB Draft Class
5. Dynamic Duo: The Versatility of Brinson and Evans
Two players who embody the versatility and athleticism of this draft class are Keon Brinson and Rodney Evans. Brinson, a 5’11”, 220-pound wrecking ball from Michigan State, has the size and power to shatter opposing defenses. His 40-yard dash of 4.52 seconds showcases his speed, while his agility and elusive nature make him a threat in the open field.
Evans, meanwhile, is a smaller yet equally explosive running back from Clemson. Standing at 5’9″ and weighing 190 pounds, he possesses lightning-fast 4.36-second 40-yard speed and impressive quickness. Evans’ shifty moves and burst allow him to navigate defenders with ease. His receiving skills add another dimension to his game, making him a dangerous pass-catching threat out of the backfield.
Below is a table comparing the key athletic attributes of Brinson and Evans:
| Keon Brinson | Rodney Evans | |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 5’11” | 5’9″ |
| Weight | 220 lb | 190 lb |
| 40-yard Dash | 4.52 seconds | 4.36 seconds |
| Vertical Jump | 36″ | 35″ |
| Bench Press | 26 reps | 22 reps |
Fantasy Football Fever: The Rise of Elite Running Backs in 2025
2025 NFL Draft: A Look Ahead
The 2025 NFL Draft is on the horizon, and scouts are already buzzing about the next wave of talented running backs to enter the league. With a deep draft class and several elite prospects, this year’s running back crop is poised to make an immediate impact on the NFL.
Top 5 Running Back Prospects
Here’s a look at the top five running back prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft:
- Bijan Robinson (Texas)
- TreVeyon Henderson (Ohio State)
- Zach Charbonnet (UCLA)
- MarShawn Lloyd (South Carolina)
- Evan Hull (Northwestern)
The X-Factor: Evan Hull
Evan Hull is the ultimate X-factor in the 2025 NFL Draft. A versatile back with a wide range of skills, Hull has the potential to be a game-changer at the next level.
Hull is one of the most productive running backs in the country, averaging 100 rushing yards per game over the past two seasons. He’s also a dangerous receiver, with 32 catches for 250 yards and two touchdowns in 2022.
Hull’s combination of size, speed, and elusiveness makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. He has the vision and patience of a seasoned veteran, and he’s always finding ways to create yards after contact.
The Fantasy Impact
The 2025 NFL Draft class is loaded with talented running backs, and several of them have the potential to be fantasy studs. Here’s a look at the players who could make an immediate impact on fantasy football:
| Player | Projected Fantasy Points |
|---|---|
| Bijan Robinson | 20-25 points per game |
| TreVeyon Henderson | 18-22 points per game |
| Zach Charbonnet | 16-20 points per game |
| MarShawn Lloyd | 14-18 points per game |
| Evan Hull | 12-16 points per game |
Explosive Burst and Elusive Maneuvers: Keys to Running Back Success
Dominating the running back position in the NFL requires a combination of explosive burst and elusive maneuvers. Quick acceleration and powerful bursts help running backs break through defensive lines and gain yards, while agility and ability to change direction help them evade defenders and score touchdowns. Scouts pay close attention to a back’s ability to “make defenders miss” and explode through open holes, as these qualities are crucial for success at the professional level.
Field Vision and Anticipation: Reading the Defense
Successful running backs possess exceptional field vision and anticipation skills. They must be able to read the defense and anticipate where holes will open up. Running backs who master this aspect of the game can avoid tackles and find the most advantageous path to the end zone. Scouts look for running backs with excellent instincts and an understanding of defensive alignments.
Pass-Catching Ability: Becoming a Versatile Threat
Modern NFL offenses often utilize running backs as receivers out of the backfield. The ability to catch passes and contribute to the passing game has become increasingly important for running backs. Scouts evaluate a back’s hands, route-running skills, and ability to create separation from defenders. Versatility and pass-catching skills can significantly enhance a running back’s draft stock and make them more valuable in the NFL.
Injury History and Durability: Evaluating Longevity
Scouts carefully consider a running back’s injury history and durability when evaluating their potential. Running backs are subjected to intense physical punishment, so their ability to stay healthy and play consistently is crucial. A history of serious injuries can raise concerns about a player’s longevity and overall value.
Physical Frame and AttributesScouts analyze a running back’s height, weight, speed, strength, and agility. These physical attributes contribute to a player’s ability to break tackles, gain yards, and evade defenders. |
Blocking Ability: A Multi-Faceted RoleIn addition to carrying the ball, running backs are often asked to block for their quarterbacks and fellow running backs. Effective blocking ability can improve an offense’s overall performance and open up running lanes for the backs themselves. |
Off-field Impact: Running Backs as Role Models and Community Leaders
Beyond their athletic achievements, running backs can play a significant role in society as role models and community leaders. Their high visibility and influence make them uniquely positioned to inspire young people and make a positive impact on their communities.
Mentoring and Youth Development
Many running backs actively engage in mentoring programs, working with at-risk youth and providing guidance and support. By sharing their experiences and overcoming obstacles, they can help young people develop resilience, build character, and make positive choices.
Public Speaking and Community Outreach
Running backs are often sought after as public speakers and community ambassadors. They use their platform to promote important social issues, speak out against injustice, and encourage community involvement. Their ability to connect with people from all walks of life makes them effective voices for change.
Charity Work and Philanthropy
Many running backs support charitable organizations and engage in philanthropic efforts. They donate time, money, and resources to causes that are close to their hearts. By leveraging their celebrity status, they can raise awareness and generate support for worthy causes.
Community Service and Leadership
Running backs can also make a difference in their communities through volunteer work and leadership initiatives. They participate in local events, mentor youth programs, and serve on boards of directors. By actively engaging in their communities, they demonstrate a commitment to improving the lives of others.
Table: Running Backs as Role Models and Community Leaders
| Player | Role Model Initiatives | Community Service |
|---|---|---|
| Ezekiel Elliott | Mentoring program for at-risk youth | Volunteer coach for local football teams |
| Saquon Barkley | Public speaking engagements on social justice | Founder of the Saquon Barkley Foundation |
| Alvin Kamara | Charity work with children’s hospitals | Board member of the Boys & Girls Club of New Orleans |
The Future of Running the Ball: Technological Advancements in Play
The running back position has always been one of the most important in football, and it’s only becoming more so in today’s NFL.
The Rise of the All-Purpose Back
One of the biggest changes in the running back position in recent years has been the rise of the all-purpose back. These backs are able to do it all, from running the ball to catching passes out of the backfield to returning kicks and punts. They’re a valuable asset to any team, and they’re only becoming more popular.
The Importance of Speed and Agility
Speed and agility have always been important for running backs, but they’re even more so in today’s NFL. With defenses getting faster and more athletic, running backs need to be able to make quick cuts and accelerate through holes quickly. They also need to be able to change direction quickly, which is essential for avoiding tackles and gaining yards.
The Use of Technology
Technology is playing an increasingly important role in the running back position. Coaches are using GPS tracking devices to monitor the speed and distance traveled by their running backs. They’re also using video analysis to study the running styles of other backs and identify areas for improvement.
The Importance of Versatility
Versatility is another important trait for running backs in today’s NFL. They need to be able to line up in different formations and perform different roles. They need to be able to run the ball, catch passes, block, and even return kicks and punts. The more versatile a running back is, the more valuable he is to his team.
The Role of Analytics
Analytics are playing a more important role in the evaluation of running backs. Teams are using data to identify the most efficient and effective backs. They’re also using data to project the future performance of running backs. This information is helping teams make better decisions about which running backs to draft and sign.
The Future of the Running Back Position
The future of the running back position is bright. With the rise of the all-purpose back, the importance of speed and agility, the use of technology, the importance of versatility, and the role of analytics, running backs are becoming more valuable than ever before. They’re the key to offensive success in today’s NFL, and they’re only getting better.
The Use of Robotics in Running Back Training
One of the most exciting developments in the future of running back training is the use of robotics. Robots are being used to help running backs improve their speed, agility, and power. They’re also being used to simulate game-like situations, which can help running backs prepare for the challenges they’ll face on the field.
The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Injury Prevention
Artificial intelligence (AI) is also being used to help prevent injuries in running backs. AI-powered systems can track the movement of running backs and identify areas where they’re at risk of injury. This information can be used to develop personalized training programs that can help running backs stay healthy.
The Future of Running Backs in the NFL
The future of running backs in the NFL is bright. With the use of technology, analytics, and robotics, running backs are becoming more efficient, effective, and versatile. They’re the key to offensive success in today’s NFL, and they’re only getting better.
| Year | Round | Pick | Player | Team |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 1 | 1 | Jahmyr Gibbs | Baltimore Ravens |
| 2023 | 1 | 2 | Evan Hull | Cincinnati Bengals |
| 2023 | 1 | 3 | Donovan Green | Cleveland Browns |
| 2023 | 1 | 4 | Rueben Owens | Las Vegas Raiders |
| 2023 | 1 | 5 | Stetson Bennett | Philadelphia Eagles |
NFL Draft 2025: The Running Backs Who Will Shape the Game
Quinshon Judkins, Ole Miss
Judkins has taken the SEC by storm in his first two seasons, establishing himself as one of the most explosive runners in the country. With his combination of size, speed, and vision, he is a threat to score every time he touches the ball.
Rueben Owens, Louisville
Owens is another dynamic back with blazing speed and phenomenal elusiveness. He has shown an ability to make defenders miss in the open field and has also proven to be a reliable receiver out of the backfield.
Richard Reese, Baylor
Reese is a powerful runner with excellent balance and agility. He has consistently produced at a high level, leading Baylor’s rushing attack in each of his two seasons and earning All-American honors.
Anthony Evans Jr., West Virginia
Evans has emerged as a breakout star in his sophomore campaign, showcasing his explosiveness and versatility. He possesses good size, speed, and hands, making him a dangerous all-around threat.
Adam Randall, Notre Dame
Randall has been a solid producer for the Fighting Irish, demonstrating good vision, balance, and field awareness. He is known for his consistent ability to churn out yards and gain tough conversions.
Stephon Campbell, Cincinnati
Campbell is a physical runner with outstanding burst and agility. He has shown the ability to make defenders miss in the hole and has also proven to be a capable receiver.
Blake Corum, Michigan
Corum has been a key component in Michigan’s offensive success, showcasing his versatility and toughness. He combines good speed and power, making him a threat both as a runner and receiver.
Jaheim Oatis, Alabama
Oatis is a massive running back with surprising agility. He has shown the ability to bulldoze through defenders and has also proven to be a reliable pass-catcher.
Kaleb Jackson, Miami (OH)
Jackson is a talented runner with outstanding speed and shiftiness. He has consistently produced at a high level in the MAC and has earned All-American honors during his sophomore season.
Josh Conerly, Oregon
Conerly is a highly-touted running back with great size and athleticism. He is known for his ability to run with power and has also shown the potential to be a good receiver.
Number 10: Donovan Green, Nebraska
Despite being undersized, Green is a highly skilled and versatile running back. He possesses excellent vision, balance, and elusiveness, making him a threat to score every time he touches the ball. Green has consistently produced at a high level for the Cornhuskers, showcasing his ability to be a reliable runner and receiver.
Green’s key stats through his first two seasons at Nebraska:
| Year | Att | Yds | TDs | Rec | Yds | TDs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 186 | 1,204 | 14 | 29 | 218 | 2 |
| 2024 | 219 | 1,357 | 16 | 35 | 245 | 3 |
Green is expected to continue producing at a high level in his junior and senior seasons, making him a potential first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. His exceptional skills and versatility make him a valuable asset to any team looking to add a dynamic weapon to their offense.
2025 NFL Draft Running Backs: A Deep and Talented Class
The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be a deep and talented one at the running back position. There are a number of players who could be selected in the first round, and several more who could go in the early rounds.
One of the top running backs in the 2025 class is Evan Hull of Northwestern. Hull is a versatile player who can run between the tackles and catch passes out of the backfield. He is also a very good blocker. Hull is projected to be a first-round pick.
Another top running back in the 2025 class is Bijan Robinson of Texas. Robinson is a physical runner who is difficult to bring down. He is also a very good receiver. Robinson is projected to be a first-round pick.
Other running backs who could be selected in the first round include Chris Rodriguez Jr. of Kentucky and Camar Wheaton of Wisconsin. Rodriguez is a bruising runner who is known for his power. Wheaton is a speedy runner who is also a good receiver.
People Also Ask About 2025 Running Backs NFL Draft
Who is the best running back in the 2025 NFL Draft class?
Evan Hull of Northwestern is the consensus top running back in the 2025 NFL Draft class.
Who are some other top running backs in the 2025 NFL Draft class?
Other top running backs in the 2025 NFL Draft class include Bijan Robinson of Texas, Chris Rodriguez Jr. of Kentucky, and Camar Wheaton of Wisconsin.
How many running backs could be selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft?
As many as four running backs could be selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
