### The Resurgence of Running Backs: Ashton Jeanty at the Forefront of the 2025 NFL Draft The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for running backs, with a notable revival in their prominence. Leading this charge is Ashton Jeanty from Boise State, who is being hailed as the top running back prospect in a class that is rich with talent. As teams prepare for the draft, questions arise about whether a running back could once again be selected first overall, a feat not accomplished in recent years. Jeanty's impressive college performance has positioned him as a potential top-10 pick, drawing comparisons to past successful running backs while also igniting debates about the value of the position in today's NFL landscape [https://www.espn.co.uk/nfl/draft2025/story/_/id/44620659/nfl-draft-ashton-jeanty-running-backs]. ### Structure of the Analysis: Key Segments 1. **Current Landscape of Running Backs in the NFL** - The running back position is experiencing a revival, with Jeanty leading the charge as a top prospect. - Historical context regarding the selection of running backs in the first round of the NFL Draft. 2. **Ashton Jeanty's Profile and Potential** - Overview of Jeanty's college career and skill set. - Comparison with previous top running back picks and their impact on teams. 3. **Draft Predictions and Team Interests** - Analysis of potential landing spots for Jeanty, including teams with high draft picks. - Insights into how Jeanty's selection could influence team strategies. 4. **Critiques and Cautions** - Discussion of differing opinions on the value of drafting running backs early. - Warnings against overvaluing the position based on recent successes. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Top Running Back Rankings**: Jeanty is consistently ranked as the number one running back prospect across multiple sources, highlighting his standout performance in college [https://www.si.com/nfl/2025-nfl-draft-rb-rankings-ashton-jeanty-headlines-deep-pool-of-prospects]. - **Historical Context**: The last two running backs selected in the top 12 were Jahmyr Gibbs (12th in 2023) and Bijan Robinson (8th in 2023), indicating a trend towards valuing running backs again [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/2025_nfl_draft_position_series_running_backs/s1_17049_42050028]. - **Jeanty's Performance Metrics**: Jeanty is noted for his explosive lower-body power and determination, making him a compelling choice for teams looking to bolster their running game [https://www.si.com/onsi/fantasy/nfl/ashton-jeanty-nfl-draft-scouting-report-fantasy-football-outlook]. ### Conclusion: The Future of Running Backs in the NFL Draft In summary, **Ashton Jeanty stands out as a leading candidate in the 2025 NFL Draft**, potentially revitalizing the running back position's status in the league. 1. The running back position is regaining prominence, with Jeanty at the forefront. 2. His college performance and skill set make him a top prospect, likely to be picked within the top 10. 3. Teams like the Patriots, Raiders, and Bears are showing interest, indicating a strategic shift towards valuing running backs again. 4. However, there are cautions against overvaluing the position based on recent successes, as highlighted by critics [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6264390/2025/04/10/ashton-jeanty-nfl-draft-saquon-barkley-bears-raiders]. As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on Jeanty and how he could reshape the future of running backs in the NFL.