Ashton Jeanty, Omarion Hampton, and the deepest running back draft class in years
Apr 4, 2025
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Dane Brugler, The Athletic's draft expert, dives into what makes this year's running back draft class so exciting. He highlights standout prospects like Ashton Jeanty and Omarion Hampton, examining their unique skills and potential fit within different NFL teams. The discussion also uncovers strategies around drafting these talented players, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses. Brugler offers insights into the implications for franchises that might consider trading up, making this a must-listen for NFL fans and fantasy football enthusiasts.
The 2023 running back draft class is regarded as exceptionally deep, featuring talented prospects like Ashton Jeanty, Omarion Hampton, and others.
Ashton Jeanty is highlighted for his impressive balance and footwork, raising expectations for his potential NFL success despite speed concerns.
Analysts discuss the strategic importance for NFL teams to find versatile running backs in later rounds, emphasizing fitting players into effective schemes.
Deep dives
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Focus on Running Backs in the Draft
The podcast emphasizes the depth of talent within this year's running back draft class, specifically spotlighting Ashton Gentry as a premier prospect. Discussion revolves around the potential of various running backs, addressing their skill sets and how they might perform in different team situations. Analysts evaluate who could serve as valuable picks if Gentry is selected in the first round, pondering the merits of players like O'Marrion Hampton and Caleb Johnson. The debate underscores the notion that teams can find quality running backs later in the draft with a plethora of options available.
An Insightful Examination of Ashton Gentry
Ashton Gentry is being touted as a top-tier prospect, with analysts praising his balance, footwork, and overall running style. His ability to absorb contact and maintain balance makes him an intriguing player, even if he might lack elite long speed. Gentry's production during his college career includes impressive statistics, such as multiple long touchdowns, highlighting his ability to break away from defenders. Despite concerns about the level of competition he faced, analysts believe Gentry's unique skill set will translate well to the NFL.
Evaluating Other Running Back Prospects
The conversation around running backs includes analysis of players like O'Marrion Hampton, who brings a powerful playing style and strong performance metrics. Analysts discuss potential landing spots for these running backs, weighing their skills against the needs of various NFL teams. Caleb Johnson, known for his outside zone running, also emerges as a potential standout who can produce significant yardage. The depth at the running back position this year presents teams with a unique opportunity to acquire talent across multiple rounds.
Diverse Running Back Skill Sets
Maryon Hampton is recognized for his versatility, capable of thriving in both gap and zone rushing schemes, thereby increasing his draft appeal. Other candidates like Jordan James and Cam Scadaboo also gain attention for their ability to contribute as change-of-pace players or in specific roles, showcasing a variety of skills across the running back spectrum. Players like DJ Giddens and LaQuint Allen stand out as potential day three prospects who could nonetheless carve out significant roles in an NFL offense through effective playing styles and work ethic. This variety emphasizes the importance of fitting running backs into systems that maximize their unique strengths.
Potential Impact of Day Three Picks
Day three running backs like Raheem Sanders and Trevor Etienne present exciting options for teams looking to add depth and skill. Their backstories—whether transitioning from other positions or excelling in different offensive systems—highlight the potential for surprising contributions. The podcast hosts mention the importance of identifying such players who can outperform their draft position, particularly those with unique strengths in rushing techniques and receiving abilities. This year's running back class offers a wealth of prospects for teams to explore, making the later rounds particularly intriguing.
You know Ashton Jeanty. You know Omarion Hampton. You know Kaleb Johnson and TreVeyon Henderson. And if you know all of them, chances are you know that this is the deepest running back draft class in years. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dane Brugler dig deep into that class on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.
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