Dynasty RB Domination: Ranking the Top Rookie Running Backs for Your 2025 Fantasy Football Draft
The 2024 NFL season saw a resurgence in running back value, with veterans like Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry proving their worth after changing teams. As we look ahead to the 2025 fantasy football season, dynasty owners are already salivating over the potential of the incoming rookie running back class. This year’s crop boasts a blend of power, speed, and receiving ability, making it a potentially league-winning group to target in your dynasty drafts.
The Cream of the Crop: Tier 1
1. Ashton Jeanty (Las Vegas Raiders)
Topping almost every analyst’s board is Ashton Jeanty, now a Raider. Drafted sixth overall by the Raiders, Jeanty is stepping into a backfield where he should immediately dominate touches. Some analysts already project him to be a top-5 RB overall in fantasy football. Jeanty is a dynamic playmaker, boasting impressive balance, footwork, vision, and explosiveness. He’s drawn comparisons to Alvin Kamara, possessing the versatility to thrive in any offensive scheme. In his time at Boise State, Jeanty showcased his elite receiving skills, averaging 3.2 yards per route run in 2023. With a career rushing grade of 99.9, Jeanty is considered one of the top RB prospects of the past decade.
The High-Potential Stars: Tier 2
2. Omarion Hampton (Los Angeles Chargers)
Omarion Hampton is a physical specimen with a nose for the endzone. The Chargers snagged Hampton with the 22nd overall pick, signaling their commitment to establishing a strong running game under a run-heavy offensive coordinator, Greg Roman. Hampton’s size, explosiveness, and lower-body strength make him a threat to break off big runs. He consistently churned out multiple runs of 5+ yards per game in college. Some argue that his limited receiving profile and the presence of Najee Harris might temper his immediate impact, but Hampton possesses the talent to become a consistent RB1 in dynasty formats.
3. Quinshon Judkins (Cleveland Browns)
Judkins transferred to Ohio State, where he showcased his versatility as both a runner and receiver. The Browns selected Judkins early in the second round (36th overall), indicating their belief in his ability to contribute significantly. Judkins is a well-rounded back with a knack for gaining first downs. While he may not possess one elite trait, his consistency and reliability make him a valuable asset in dynasty leagues.
4. TreVeyon Henderson (New England Patriots)
TreVeyon Henderson, also from Ohio State, offers a different skillset compared to Judkins. Henderson is known for his explosive speed and receiving ability. Henderson has the potential to be a three-down back in the NFL, excelling as both a runner and pass-catcher. While his landing spot in New England might not be ideal initially, Henderson’s talent could allow him to surpass Rhamondre Stevenson on the depth chart.
Solid Prospects with Upside: Tier 3
5. Kaleb Johnson (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Kaleb Johnson is a physical runner with the size and strength to excel in short-yardage situations. The Steelers, selecting Johnson in the third round, clearly see him as a potential replacement for Najee Harris. While his combine performance may have raised some concerns, Johnson’s powerful running style could make him a valuable asset in Pittsburgh’s offense.
6. RJ Harvey (Denver Broncos)
RJ Harvey was a surprising second-round pick by the Denver Broncos. Harvey impressed scouts with his speed and athleticism at the combine, answering questions about his durability. With a relatively thin RB room in Denver, Harvey has the opportunity to make an immediate impact.
Sleepers and Stashes: Tier 4 and Beyond
This tier is filled with running backs who possess intriguing traits but face uncertain paths to playing time.
- Devin Neal (New Orleans Saints): Neal landed in a favorable spot in New Orleans. If Alvin Kamara’s age catches up to him, Neal could become a steal in rookie drafts.
- Cameron Skattebo (New York Giants): Skattebo is a versatile playmaker with the potential to contribute in multiple facets of the game.
- Bhayshul Tuten (Jacksonville Jaguars): Tuten possesses rare speed and big-play potential.
- Jarquez Hunter (Los Angeles Rams): Hunter’s landing spot behind Kyren Williams and Blake Corum makes him a late-round flier.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 rookie running back class is shaping up to be a game-changer for dynasty fantasy football. With a blend of top-tier talent and intriguing sleepers, dynasty owners have the opportunity to build a dominant backfield for years to come. Keep an eye on these players as they transition to the NFL, and be prepared to make strategic moves in your rookie drafts to secure the future of your dynasty team.