The 2025 NFL Draft class is starting to take shape, and that means we’re getting a clearer picture of some of the top prospects and the position groups with the most depth.
The running back, tight end and offensive tackle positions seem to be the deepest and strongest on the offensive side of the ball. On defense, the edge defender group is as deep as we’ve seen in several years, dominating the projected top 50. There are also more impact defensive backs this year than a year ago, with plenty of options on all three days of the draft, specifically on Days 2 and 3.
Here are PFF's top running back prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft, along with some initial scouting notes courtesy of lead draft analyst Trevor Sikkema.
For the full ranking of draft prospects, along with their three-year player grades and position rankings, click here.
RB1. Ashton Jeanty, Boise State
Strengths:
• Dense, compact frame for good center of gravity/balance
• Natural soft hands in the receiving game
• Becomes a playmaker after the catch
• Does not shy away from contact
• Excellent one-cut vision behind zone-blocking concepts
Weaknesses:
• Overall size makes pass blocking a difficult task, but he is willing to do it
• Vision in man/gap situation is not decisive enough
• Can sometimes shimmy too much when setting a defender up in space
RB2. Omarion Hampton, North Carolina
Big board rank: 24
Strengths:
• Built like an NFL back in measurables, weight distribution and athleticism
• Relishes in the physical aspects of the position
• Wants to erase people in pass pro
• Elite power in his lower half for leg drive through contract and explosiveness in space
Weaknesses:
• Inconsistent blend of patience and hesitancy behind the LOS
• Overeager to get upfield, at times; could stand to be more patient for his blockers at second level
RB3. Cameron Skattebo, Arizona State
Big board rank: 46
Strengths:
• Determined running style
• Willingness to be physical as a rusher and blocker
• Slippery to force missed tackles
• Decent vision/feel for blocks and open space
• Good weight and balance to bounce off tackles
Weaknesses:
• Limited long speed
• Play speed is below average for the NFL level
• Stiff movements when changing direction/slashing
RB4. Dylan Sampson, Tennessee
Big board rank: 53
Scouting notes coming soon!
RB5. Kaleb Johnson, Iowa
Big board rank: 54
Strengths:
• Strong north-to-south runner between the tackles
• Realy nice burst and top speed for his weight
• Has the balance to shrug off arm tackles for YAC
• Good vision, especially behind ZBS
• Constantly cutting to find open space
Weaknesses:
• Not much experience at all as a receiver
• Upfield urgency can lead to not letting blocks set up
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