NFL Draft 2025: Running Backs Poised to Make a Comeback

The 2025 NFL draft is shaping up to be a strong one for running backs, with several talented prospects expected to be selected in the early rounds. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the last time a running back was taken with the top pick, but could the tide be turning? In speaking to multiple coaches and executives across the league this offseason, the perceived downfall of the running back has been exaggerated. Running backs are cool again in the NFL, and they're the strongest position group in this class. This year's running back draft class will help reflect how much value the position brings in the modern NFL, especially as offenses shift further toward a dynamic rushing game. In his latest mock draft, ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. has Ashton Jeanty and Omarion Hampton going No. 6 and No. 12, respectively, and three more running backs in the second round. Only one went in the first two rounds last year, Jonathon Brooks to the Carolina Panthers at No. 46 overall. The shift in how football is played is also prevalent in how teams have treated the most premium draft picks. Since 1996, the year after Ki-Jana Carter went to the Bengals, the top five positions drafted with a top 10 pick have all been pass-centric -- quarterback, offensive tackle, wide receiver, defensive end and defensive back. According to ESPN Research, there have been nearly twice as many offensive tackles (43) taken in that range during that span as running backs (23). The value of running backs has increased entering this year's draft, as they are able to make an impact on the game in multiple ways. In 2024, Saquon Barkley had a historic season, rushing for 2,005 yards and 13 touchdowns and winning the NFL's Offensive Player of the Year award. Derrick Henry also had a strong season, rushing for 1,538 yards and 13 touchdowns. The 2025 draft class is led by Jeanty, who had a strong season at Boise State. He rushed for 1,527 yards and 18 touchdowns and caught 43 passes for 569 yards and five touchdowns. He is joined by Hampton, who rushed for 1,463 yards and 17 touchdowns at North Carolina. The running back class also includes several other talented prospects, including Gibbs, Robinson and Skattebo. The 2025 NFL draft is shaping up to be a strong one for running backs, with several talented prospects expected to be selected in the early rounds. The class is led by Jeanty and Hampton, who are both expected to be selected in the first round. The value of running backs has increased in recent years, as they are able to make an impact on the game in multiple ways. The 2025 draft class is expected to be one of the strongest in recent years, with several talented prospects expected to be selected in the early rounds.