Ep. 641 - 2025 Rookie Running Back Breakdown (Part 4): Finding the Hidden Gems! ππ
Mar 13, 2025
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Dive into the intriguing world of the 2025 rookie running back class! The hosts explore potential stars like powerhouse Kaleb Johnson and versatile Devin Neal, analyzing their strengths and upside. DJ Giddens earns praise as a workhorse, while bruiser Taj Brooks showcases intriguing NFL traits. Phil Mafah and Jarquez Hunter are also examined for their roles in future fantasy leagues. Join in for humor, scouting insights, and the thrill of uncovering hidden gems within this year's draft class!
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Quick takeaways
Caleb Johnson's impressive stats highlight his potential, but concerns about his aggression and pass protection may hinder his NFL success.
Devin Neal's well-rounded skill set and football IQ make him a reliable option, despite occasional inconsistencies in his pass protection.
DJ Giddens' unique athleticism and playmaking ability position him as an exciting gamble, although doubts about his decision-making persist.
Deep dives
Caleb Johnson's Potential and Limitations
Caleb Johnson, a running back from Iowa, showcases a combination of size and speed, standing at 6'1β and weighing 224 pounds. He recorded an impressive 1,537 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns in his last season, benefiting from a strong offensive line. While he exhibits good patience and the ability to let blocks develop, his play style is considered too soft for his size, lacking the decisiveness and aggression expected from a bigger back. Additionally, concerns regarding his pass protection skills and the overall impact of his performance on fantasy football resonate, suggesting he may require a favorable situation to achieve RB1 numbers.
Devin Neal: The Reliable Runner
Devin Neal, a 5'11β, 213-pound running back from Kansas, is characterized by his solid vision and patient running style, gaining 1,266 rushing yards along with receiving contributions last season. He may not possess elite athleticism, but his football acumen and ability to read defenses make him an intriguing prospect. Despite showing capability in pass protection, Neal occasionally struggles with consistency in this area, which could affect his NFL viability. Overall, his well-rounded skill set positions him as a reliable option, particularly in situations where a steady contributor is needed.
DJ Giddens: A High-Energy Prospect
DJ Giddens from Kansas State stands out with impressive athletic metrics, including a 4.43-second 40-yard dash, and accumulated over 1,300 rushing yards in his season. Praised for his lateral agility and burst, he demonstrates a unique ability to evade defenders, although there's skepticism about his overall vision and decision-making when faced with pressure. While he can threaten defenses with speed, concerns linger about his effectiveness in short-yardage situations and inconsistencies in catching passes. Despite these challenges, Giddens' potential makes him a compelling gamble for teams seeking dynamic playmakers.
Taj Brooks: A Mixed Bag of Skills
Taj Brooks, a running back from Texas Tech, presents a complex evaluation due to his strong college performance, becoming the program's all-time leading rusher. Although he has shown abilities to absorb contact and break tackles, his speed and ability to catch passes raise concerns, leading to a lower overall projection. Critics point out that he can be too patient at times, waiting for the perfect hole rather than seizing opportunities, which can hinder his effectiveness. Despite a positive outlook for his potential as a contributor, many see him as more of a situational player than a consistent starter in the NFL.
Jarquez Hunter's Upside and Athleticism
Jarquez Hunter from Auburn is noted for his size at 5'9β and 204 pounds, exhibiting solid speed and a physical playing style with a strong ability to break tackles. His game lacks extensive elusiveness, and while he runs well between the tackles, there are question marks about his burst and lateral movement, which could limit his effectiveness in the NFL. Despite inconsistencies in pass protection, Hunter's versatility and potential make him an intriguing prospect for teams looking for a balanced back. Overall, he presents a solid option for fantasy rosters, especially if he lands in a favorable situation.
Rich Dotson (@DynastyRich), Matt OβHara (@DynastyMatt), and Garret Price (@DynastyPrice) are back with Part 4 of their 2025 rookie running back breakdowns on the Dynasty Nerds Dynasty Fantasy Football Podcastβand this group is a mix of potential steals and risky bets!
π₯ Weβre breaking down these RBs:
β Kaleb Johnson β A powerful runner with RB1 potential?
β Devin Neal β A do-it-all back with solid upside
β DJ Giddens β A workhorse waiting for his chance?
β Tahj Brooks β A bruiser with intriguing NFL traits
β Phil Mafah β Can he carve out a big role at the next level?
β Jarquez Hunter β A versatile back with upside in the right system
This 2025 rookie running back class has some underrated prospects that could pay off big in dynasty leagues! Whoβs a future RB1? Whoβs a dynasty stash? We break it all down! π§
π Subscribe now for expert dynasty rookie analysis, scouting reports, and must-know fantasy football insights! #DynastyFantasyFootball #NFLDraft #FantasyFootball #RookieRBs
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