The 2025 NFL Draft Class was a talented one, filled with elite players at all positions. The running back class is widely regarded as one of the deepest and most talented in recent years, featuring several prospects with the potential to have an impact at the professional level. Two running backs were selected in the first round, followed by several scattered throughout the later rounds. The three that stand out and have the most promise at the next level are Ashton Jeanty, Omarion Hampton, and Cam Skattebo.
Ashton Jeanty, the Heisman Trophy Finalist, landed with the Las Vegas Raiders, selected sixth overall in the first round. Jeanty had an excellent 2024 campaign and is one of the premier running back prospects of the past decade. He shows explosive athleticism, balance, and a gritty run style, drawing comparisons to greats like Derrick Henry and Marshawn Lynch. Jeanty is expected to be a true feature back for the Raiders, and is projected as a top fantasy option in 2025, falling into a run-first offense schemed by Chip Kelly and Pete Carroll.
Omarion Hampton was selected by the LA Chargers 22nd overall. He brings a powerful, slashing running style and is a seemingly perfect fit for the Chargers’ gap-based rushing attack under Greg Roman. He’s expected to challenge for the starting role early, with immense potential to become an excellent fantasy option and future playmaker for Jim Harbaugh.
Cam Skattebo was selected by the New York Giants with the 105th overall pick. He is a highly productive tough running back whose physical style should make him a valuable asset for New York. Skattebo is expected to thrive in the short yardage, early down game, with a beneficial ability in the pass game. The Giants are getting a kid who has grit and will work relentlessly in whatever they need him to do.
Jeanty and the Raiders are an outstanding fit and possibly the best one Jeanty could find. The Raiders under Carroll and Kelly are expected to give the Boise State alumni a heavy workload right away. Carroll, in his tenure with the Seahawks, was known for his powerful run game with players similar to Jeanty. Las Vegas should be expected to run the ball consistently and stretch long drives to keep their sub-par defense from staying on the field. The Heisman Trophy candidate is a generational prospect who was lucky enough to land with a Hall of Fame caliber head coach who centers his offensive scheme heavily around his stereotypical gritty physical run game.
The 2025 running back class is one to watch out for. The likes of Jeanty, Skattebo, and Hampton are just the premier names. The class is so deep and filled with players that will constantly remind fans how great the 2025 class really was. Jeanty is an exceptional football player with Hall of Fame potential, and will be a must-watch show for NFL Fans for years to come.
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