Ashton Jeanty dominated college football, establishing himself as a leading candidate for the NFL’s next great running back. His exceptional performance during the 2024 season has positioned him as a key player in the ongoing running back renaissance within the league. With standout athletes like Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry, and Josh Jacobs paving the way, teams are increasingly recognizing the value of powerful, versatile runners who can drive an offense. Jeanty’s emergence is a testament to this shift back to a more traditional, run-centric style of play.
In a league known for its copycat strategies, Jeanty has become the focal point for teams as they formulate their 2025 draft strategies. The Heisman Trophy runner-up has showcased remarkable talent throughout his three years at Boise State, impressing scouts with his ideal size of 5-foot-9 and 215 pounds, coupled with his exceptional skills as a primary runner in a pro-style offense.
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“He’s a tough kid with great skills,” remarked an NFC executive. “His balance and body control are outstanding, and he can break away for long runs at any moment. He excels in catching passes out of the backfield and making plays in open space. He embodies what teams are seeking in a lead back today.”
Analyzing Jeanty’s impressive junior season reveals a runner with a unique combination of size, physicality, and agility. His ability to navigate through defenses with patience and precision sets him apart. He demonstrates exceptional vision and balance, often executing remarkable jump cuts that allow him to evade defenders effortlessly.
In Boise State’s gap scheme, which utilizes various guard-tackle and guard-tight end counters, Jeanty’s slow-flow running style helps him conceal himself behind blockers before exploding past linebackers and safeties. This blend of patience and explosiveness poses a significant challenge for defensive coordinators attempting to devise strategies to contain him.
Jeanty’s acute awareness and agility make him a threat in open space. Whether he is executing outside runs or catching passes on screens, he skillfully maneuvers behind his blockers. His versatility allows him to fit seamlessly into various offensive schemes, especially those emphasizing perimeter runs and the passing game.
From a team perspective, Jeanty’s stamina and determination position him as a prime candidate for an RB1 role. He has consistently handled a heavy workload, logging over 20 carries in 17 games across three seasons, including eight instances of 30 or more rushing attempts in 2024 alone. His traditional running style resonates with offensive coordinators searching for a franchise back to anchor their offense.
Should Jeanty declare for the draft, he is likely to be a first-round selection, potentially landing in the top 20. His playing style draws comparisons to Josh Jacobs during his time at Alabama, characterized by a powerful running style combined with agility and explosiveness. Jacobs’ impressive NFL career, highlighted by a rushing title in 2022 and multiple Pro Bowl selections, suggests that Jeanty could similarly elevate a franchise with his talents.
With the opportunity to showcase his skills further in the College Football Playoffs, Jeanty is poised to solidify his reputation as a potential franchise player in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft.
