NFL teams have recently avoided drafting running backs in Round 1, but could that change in the 2025 NFL Draft?
The class features Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty, who rushed for the second-most yards (2,601 in 14 games) in a season in FBS history in 2024. However, he may not be the only back with a first-round grade.
In a piece published Tuesday, The Athletic’s Nick Baumgardner suggested Iowa RB Kaleb Johnson or North Carolina RB Omarion Hampton could sneak into the first round.
“Johnson exploded this season inside Tim Lester’s retooled Iowa offense. With speed, balance and elite vision at 225 pounds, he is a legit three-down back who could thrive early in his NFL career behind a good line,” wrote Baumgardner. “The exact same thing could be said about Hampton, who put up back-to-back 1,500-yard seasons (and 73 career receptions) at North Carolina.”
Philadelphia Eagles RB Saquon Barkley’s success could influence teams’ thinking. After signing a three-year, $37.75M deal with the Eagles in March 2024, Barkley rushed for 2,005 yards in 16 regular-season games and won Super Bowl LIX.
“It’d be hard, of course, to ask any rookie to have the impact that Barkley just had on the world champs,” wrote Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer on Monday. “But it’s not difficult to see how he illustrated that while the value of the position may not be what it was 40 years ago, having a really good one can make a difference.”
Teams with an elite passing attack can still benefit from a reliable ground game.
In 2024, the Cincinnati Bengals finished first in the league in passing yards (272.9) but ranked 30th in rushing yards (92.6). Cincinnati’s unbalanced offense is one reason it missed the playoffs for a second straight season.
No RBs were selected in the first round in 2024. Don’t expect that to happen in 2025. The draft is stacked at the position, which could tempt RB-needy teams (Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos) to take one early.
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