The 2025 NFL Draft running back class features a mix of high-upside playmakers, each with strengths that could make them franchise cornerstones but also weaknesses that could give teams pause.
With PFF’s latest big board providing updated rankings and the Mock Draft Simulator allowing fans to test different scenarios, the debate over this year’s top QB prospects is already heating up.
Here’s a breakdown of what each signal-caller brings to the table, along with the areas they’ll need to refine at the next level.
For the full ranking of draft prospects, along with their three-year player grades and position rankings, click here.
• Dense, compact frame for good center of gravity/balance
• Natural soft hands in the receiving game
• Becomes a playmaker after the catch
• Does not shy away from contact
• Excellent one-cut vision behind zone-blocking concepts
• Overall size makes pass blocking a difficult task, but he is willing to do it
• Vision in man/gap situation is not decisive enough
• Can sometimes shimmy too much when setting a defender up in space
Big board rank: 25
• Built like an NFL back in measurables, weight distribution and athleticism
• Relishes in the physical aspects of the position
• Wants to erase people in pass pro
• Elite power in his lower half for leg drive through contract and explosiveness in space
• Inconsistent blend of patience and hesitancy behind the LOS
• Overeager to get upfield, at times; could stand to be more patient for his blockers at second level
Big board rank: 46
• Determined running style
• Willingness to be physical as a rusher and blocker
• Slippery to force missed tackles
• Decent vision/feel for blocks and open space
• Good weight and balance to bounce off tackles
• Limited long speed
• Play speed is below average for the NFL level
• Stiff movements when changing direction/slashing
Big board rank: 53
• Quick pace of play. He consistently moves forward with speed and not much hesitancy
• Has the long speed to erase angles to the sideline in pursuit
• Good one-cut agility and explosiveness
• Great vision for cut-back lanes behind zone-blocking schemes
• Explosive footwork to make decisive cuts behind man/gap concepts
• Good balance. He is a smaller back, but not one who will go down easily after first contact
• Smaller, but not “outlier small”
• Willing pass-blocker, but his efficacy can be spotty due to lack of weight
• Handful of fumbles in 2024
Big board rank: 54
• Strong north-to-south runner between the tackles
• Realy nice burst and top speed for his weight
• Has the balance to shrug off arm tackles for YAC
• Good vision, especially behind ZBS
• Constantly cutting to find open space
• Not much experience at all as a receiver
• Upfield urgency can lead to not letting blocks set up
