In the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, all eyes are on potential star players like Shedeur Sanders, Travis Hunter, and Cam Ward. However, amidst the buzz surrounding these prospects, one name that deserves more recognition is Ashton Jeanty, a standout running back from Boise State. With a record-breaking college football season under his belt and comparisons to Hall of Famer LaDainian Tomlinson, Jeanty is poised to make a significant impact in the NFL.
As we speculate on where Jeanty might land in the draft, let’s explore five of the most compelling landing spots for this talented ball carrier.
Las Vegas Raiders – No. 6 overall pick
The Raiders, backed by the legendary Tom Brady as a minority owner, are likely looking to address the quarterback position. However, Jeanty’s potential as a blue-chip playmaker could provide invaluable support to the team, especially alongside emerging tight end Brock Bowers. With a new coach like Pete Carroll at the helm, who understands the value of a workhorse back, Jeanty could be a game-changer for the Raiders.
Cincinnati Bengals – No. 17 overall pick
While the Bengals need to solidify their offensive core, adding a dynamic running back like Jeanty could be a strategic move without breaking the bank. As a versatile starter, Jeanty would offer quarterback Joe Burrow another reliable weapon, complementing the team’s offensive arsenal effectively. This move could also allow current running back Chase Brown to thrive in a complementary role.
Los Angeles Chargers – No. 22 overall pick
The Chargers may face a challenge with Jeanty’s draft positioning likely falling within the top 20 picks. However, considering their impending free agency situation with their current running back, J.K. Dobbins, Jeanty could be a valuable addition to their roster. With head coach Jim Harbaugh’s focus on strengthening the offensive line, Jeanty’s talent could be the missing piece to elevate the Chargers’ running game to new heights.
Denver Broncos – No. 20 overall pick
With promising quarterback Bo Nix leading the charge, the Broncos are in need of offensive weapons to support their young signal-caller. Jeanty’s skill set could provide the necessary firepower to enhance the team’s offensive capabilities. Given the team’s rotation of running backs in the previous season, Jeanty’s arrival could bring stability and playmaking ability to the Broncos’ backfield.
Dallas Cowboys – No. 12 overall pick
In what could be a dream scenario, Jeanty, a Frisco, Texas native, could find himself drafted by the Cowboys. With Dak Prescott at the helm, Dallas is in search of a reliable running back to bolster their ground game. As the team’s incumbent running back heads into free agency, Jeanty’s arrival could inject a new level of dynamism into the Cowboys’ offense, reminiscent of Ezekiel Elliott’s prime.
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the landscape is ripe with opportunities for Ashton Jeanty to make a lasting impact on whichever team chooses to draft him. With his exceptional talent and game-changing abilities, Jeanty has the potential to be a standout rookie in the upcoming NFL season.