Next Big Thing? Why Ashton Jeanty Could Dominate the 2025 NFL Draft
The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, and at the forefront of the buzz is Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty. After a historic college career that saw him rack up eye-popping statistics and earn comparisons to some of the game’s all-time greats, Jeanty is poised to make a significant impact at the next level. Could he be the next face of the NFL running back position?
A Statistical Juggernaut
Ashton Jeanty’s final season at Boise State was nothing short of legendary. He ran for 2,601 yards, just 28 yards shy of Barry Sanders’ 1988 NCAA record. His 29 rushing touchdowns ranked among the nation’s best, and he led the FBS with 2,750 all-purpose yards. But it wasn’t just the volume of his production that stood out; it was the efficiency. Jeanty averaged a whopping 7.0 yards per carry and forced an FBS-leading 151 missed tackles. According to Boise State University Athletics, Jeanty also led the Mountain West Conference and the NCAA with 185.8 rushing yards per game.
These numbers aren’t just impressive; they’re historic. According to USA Today, Jeanty’s performance places him in the same conversation as LaDainian Tomlinson, with his rushing yards per game being the highest since Tomlinson’s mark in 2000.
Versatility is Key
What separates Jeanty from other running back prospects is his versatility. While he’s a dominant runner, he’s also a capable receiver. In his sophomore year, Jeanty recorded 569 receiving yards, the most of any running back in the nation. This ability to contribute in the passing game makes him a true three-down threat, a valuable asset in today’s NFL.
The Scout’s Take
NFL scouts are raving about Jeanty’s potential. NFL Media’s Maurice Jones-Drew has called him the best running back prospect he’s scouted since joining NFL Media in 2015. Lance Zierlein compares Jeanty to NFL legend LaDainian Tomlinson, highlighting his unique talent and the resurgence of the run game in the NFL. Zierlein notes that Jeanty is the “ultimate yardage creator,” with the talent and skill set to succeed regardless of the quality of his blocking.
Daniel Jeremiah of NFL Network is equally impressed, ranking Jeanty as the No. 3 overall prospect in his latest Top 50 hierarchy of the 2025 NFL draft class. Jeremiah notes Jeanty’s incredible strength, balance, and burst, as well as his outstanding vision, tempo, and feel.
Potential Landing Spots
So, where could Ashton Jeanty end up in the NFL? Mock drafts have him going as high as No. 6 overall to the Las Vegas Raiders. The Raiders, who struggled mightily to run the ball in 2024, averaging an NFL-low 79.8 rushing yards per game, could see Jeanty as the missing piece to their offense.
Other potential landing spots include the Chicago Bears, New England Patriots and Denver Broncos. The Bears, armed with multiple first-round picks, could pair Jeanty with their young quarterback to create a dynamic offensive duo. The Patriots, in search of a new identity, could see Jeanty as the centerpiece of their offense. The Broncos, meanwhile, could use Jeanty to revitalize their struggling running game.
Jeanty’s Mindset
Beyond the stats and the scouting reports, what truly sets Jeanty apart is his mindset. In a letter to NFL general managers published in The Players’ Tribune, Jeanty wrote, “It’s TACKLE football … you know what I’m saying? I’d draft the guy they can’t tackle.” He exudes confidence and a burning desire to win, traits that are sure to endear him to NFL coaches and fans alike.
The Next Chapter
Ashton Jeanty’s journey to the NFL has been anything but ordinary. From playing football on a Navy base in Italy to dominating the college ranks at Boise State, he’s overcome obstacles and defied expectations at every turn. Now, as he prepares to enter the NFL, he’s ready to take the league by storm. Whether he’s drafted in the top 10 or lands with a team later in the first round, one thing is clear: Ashton Jeanty is poised to be the next big thing in the NFL.