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In the 2024 NFL Draft, there was a shortage of top-tier running backs compared to the 2023 NFL Draft. As a result, Jonathon Brooks became the first halfback selected at pick No. 46, marking the latest RB1 pick in ten years.
Do not anticipate the continuation of that trend in the 2025 NFL Draft. Numerous running backs opted to stay in school for an extra year in 2024, with many of them showcasing top-tier qualities that might elevate them to day-one consideration in the 2025 NFL Draft.
As we begin the summer scouting phase for the 2025 NFL Draft, we have put together a list of 15 running back prospects to carefully track in today's evaluation. These 15 RB prospects have been assessed and ranked based on their 2023 EPA value (expected points added).
Understanding Expected Points Added (EPA) for Running Backs
EPA is a critical statistical measure in football that assesses the impact of each play on a team's scoring potential. This metric is particularly valuable in evaluating running backs, as it quantifies how their actions on the field contribute to the team's ability to score and ultimately succeed.
The Significance of EPA in Football Analytics
EPA directly correlates with a team's success by linking running back performance to scoring outcomes. Running backs with high EPA values are often instrumental in executing successful plays that enhance the team's chances of scoring and winning. This makes EPA an increasingly popular metric in both NFL and college football analytics, providing deeper insights than traditional statistics such as total yards or touchdowns.
By leveraging EPA, analysts, coaches, and fans can gain a more nuanced understanding of how strategic play-calling and individual player performances influence the overall game beyond mere statistical outputs.
15 2025 NFL Draft Prospects To Watch Ranked By 2023 Total EPA
TAHJ BROOKS, TEXAS TECH
EPA: 33.24 (5th)
Summary Analysis: Tahj Brooks led the nation in 2023 with 291 carries, generating 33.24 EPA, ranking him 5th among running backs. His powerful running style led to 96 forced missed tackles and 998 yards after contact. Brooks moved the chains consistently, with 96 of his carries resulting in a first down or touchdown. While his passing game contributions are limited (70 receiving yards in 2023), his ability to break tackles and gain tough yards makes him a valuable short-yardage back.
DEVIN NEAL, KANSAS
EPA: 24.31 (15th)
Summary Analysis: Devin Neal has been a top performer over the last two seasons, with 203 carries in 2023 resulting in 24.31 EPA, ranking him 15th. His shifty running style and elite change-of-direction ability allowed him to accumulate 2,373 rushing yards since 2022. Neal’s ability to make defenders miss with his jump cuts and his productivity in the Kansas offense make him a compelling prospect.
ASHTON JEANTY, BOISE STATE
EPA: 19.96 (25th)
Summary Analysis: Ashton Jeanty led all FBS running backs with a 95.1 grade in 2023, earning 19.96 EPA on 220 carries, placing him 25th. He was the only back with 90.0-plus rushing and receiving grades, demonstrating his versatility. Jeanty’s 578 receiving yards were the most among running backs, and his 82 forced missed tackles on the ground highlight his elusiveness. His elite athleticism and versatility make him a standout prospect in the 2025 class.
CJ DONALDSON JR., WEST VIRGINIA
EPA: 18.21 (29th)
Summary Analysis: CJ Donaldson Jr. had a productive 2023 season with 169 carries, generating 18.21 EPA, placing him 29th among running backs. As part of a potent two-headed rushing attack with Jahiem White, Donaldson scored 11 touchdowns and showcased his ability to handle a significant workload. Returning for his junior season, Donaldson aims to build on his performance and remain a top rushing threat in the Big 12.
KYLE MONANGAI, RUTGERS
EPA: 18.01 (30th)
Summary Analysis: Kyle Monangai had a breakout year in 2023, starting all 12 games for Rutgers and earning second-team All-Big Ten honors. He accumulated 18.01 EPA on 242 carries, placing him 30th among running backs. Monangai’s consistency and ability to handle a heavy workload make him a key player to watch in 2024.
DAMIEN MARTINEZ, MIAMI
EPA: 16.73 (35th)
Summary Analysis: Damien Martinez quietly amassed 16.73 EPA on 195 carries while at Oregon State in 2023, ranking 35th among running backs. Known for his productivity, Martinez gained 1,304 yards after contact over his first two seasons. At 6-foot, 232 pounds, he has the size to be a powerful runner but needs to improve his performance on passing downs to maximize his potential.
OMARION HAMPTON, NORTH CAROLINA
EPA: 16.35 (36th)
Summary Analysis: Omarion Hampton produced 16.35 EPA on 253 carries in 2023, ranking him 36th. His bruising running style at 6 feet and 220 pounds led to an FBS-leading 1,072 yards after contact. Hampton’s ability to hit a top speed of 23 miles per hour shows his blend of power and speed. Despite North Carolina's low team run-blocking grade, Hampton consistently made big plays.
TREVEYON HENDERSON, OHIO STATE
EPA: 13.38 (46th)
Analysis Summary: In 2023, TreVeyon Henderson gained 13.38 EPA from 156 carries, ranking 46th. Following a season marred by injuries, Henderson returned strongly with an average of 5.9 yards per carry, placing him second among Big Ten running backs. His capacity to contribute in various situations is evident, with a noteworthy 1.48 yards per route run, underscoring his skills as a receiver. However, maintaining good health will be essential for his draft prospects.
OLLIE GORDON II, OKLAHOMA STATE
EPA: 6.81 (72nd)
Summary Analysis: Ollie Gordon II, the reigning Doak Walker Award winner, accumulated 6.81 EPA on 285 carries in 2023, ranking 72nd. Leading the FBS with 1,732 rushing yards and finishing second in rushing touchdowns (21), Gordon showcased elite vision and footwork. His ability to perform despite Oklahoma State's low run-blocking grade makes him a top candidate for RB1 in the 2025 NFL Draft.
PHIL MAFAH, CLEMSON
EPA: 5.44 (79th)
Summary of Analysis: Phil Mafah achieved an EPA of 5.44 on 179 rushing attempts in 2023, ranking 79th among running backs. Mafah has been waiting his turn and will get the opportunity to lead the Clemson backfield in 2024. Although his remarkable running abilities and athleticism are apparent, he needs to show more consistency in 2024 to boost his prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft.
TREVOR ETIENNE, GEORGIA
EPA: 2.18 (91st)
Analysis Summary: In 2023, Trevor Etienne produced 2.18 Expected Points Added (EPA) on 131 rushing attempts, placing him 91st among running backs. He led the Gators by scoring nine touchdowns, showcasing his ability as a versatile playmaker. Following the 2023 college football season, Etienne decided to transfer to the Georgia Bulldogs, where he will have the chance to benefit from running behind a solid offensive line within an NFL-oriented offensive system in 2024.
JAYDN OTT, CALIFORNIA
EPA: 0.49 (106th)
Summary Analysis: Jaydn Ott generated just 0.49 EPA on 246 carries in 2023, ranking 106th. Despite this, Ott has been a consistent performer, ranking ninth among Power Five backs in rushing yards since 2022. His ability to reach top speed quickly and maintain it, along with his versatility, make him a player to watch, though he will need to improve his efficiency to rise up draft boards.
NICHOLAS SINGLETON, PENN STATE
EPA: -10.41 (157th)
Analysis Summary: Nicholas Singleton faced difficulties during the 2023 season, recording -10.41 EPA on 171 carries, placing him 157th in the rankings. Although his rushing efficiency declined year-over-year, Singleton demonstrated his versatility by making 26 receptions for 308 yards and scoring two touchdowns. He topped the Big Ten with 1,373 all-purpose yards in 2023. Enhancing his consistency as a runner in 2024 could lead Singleton to achieve impressive results.
QUINSHON JUDKINS, OHIO STATE
EPA: -10.82 (159th)
Analysis Summary: Quinshon Judkins faced some difficulties during the 2023 season at Ole Miss, registering a -10.82 EPA over 271 carries, ranking him 159th. Despite the underwhelming EPA, Judkins' career output and physical abilities show promise. Since 2022, he has topped Power Five running backs in rushing yards, yards gained after contact, and forced missed tackles. He made a move to Ohio State this year and will team up with TreyVeyon Henderson, potentially forming the most formidable backfield in college football for the 2024 season. Enhancing his efficiency will be crucial for his draft prospects.
DONOVAN EDWARDS, MICHIGAN
EPA: -13.61 (172nd)
Analysis Summary: Donovan Edwards had a lackluster 2023 regular season, recording -13.61 EPA on 119 carries, placing him at 172nd. While serving as a secondary option, Edwards faced challenges in maintaining performance consistency. Nevertheless, his standout displays in crucial situations, such as the national championship victory and his remarkable performance in the 2022 Ohio State game, highlight his exceptional running capabilities. Additionally, his proficiency as a top-tier receiver, along with accumulating 456 receiving yards in the past two seasons, underscores his potential. With Corum and McCarthy departing for the NFL, Edwards now has the chance to step up as Michigan's primary running back and enhance his draft prospects.