Rookie Running backs that should start for their new teams - And day 3 rookie selections that could surprise!

 

This was a deep rookie class worth several projected new starting RBs. Here’s my list of the six RBs that are likely to start for their new teams.

 

#Raiders Pick 1.6 ASHTON JEANTY 5’9” 211 4.42/40

Elite 3 down back. Fantastic vision, elusive in open space. Strong and bruising power & terrific contact balance. Superior athlete. Not elite speed but an extra gear to breakaway.

Pro Comp = Marshawn Lynch

 

#Chargers Pick 1.22 OMARION HAMPTON 6’0” 220 4.46/40

Prototypical NFL workhorse back. Productive North-south power back & strong at the goal line. Lacks top end speed and open field elusiveness but considering his size, his speed is impressive.

Pro Comp = Demarco Murray 

 

#Steelers Pick 3.19 KALEB JOHNSON 6’1” 220 4.57/40

Size & power to be a workhorse back. Not an aggressive player but more of a one cut between the tackles runner best suited as an early down back. Nose for the end zone. Not a pass catching back or pass blocker but can catch passes well. Lacks elite speed and elusiveness in the open field.

Pro Comp = David Montgomery 

 

Patriots Pick 2.6 TREVEYON HENDERSON 5’10” 202 4.43/40

Don’t let him in the open field. Henderson is a house call back. Terrific pass catcher and pass blocker. Great one cut and go vision but has agility to find the second hole and speed to find the second gear. Tough runner not afraid of contact. Won’t be considered a workhorse back but skill set lends to ability for all phases of the game.

Pro Comp = Jahmyr Gibbs

 

#Browns Pick 2.4 QUINSHON JUDKINS 5’11” 220 4.48/40

Bigger back and great speed for his size. Follows block assignments well. Not the most creative runner with more of a north-south run style but not afraid to use his size to bully smaller defenders. Able pass catcher but developing as a pass protector so best suited as an early down back. Lacks breakaway speed for big plays but built for volume.

NFL Comp = Joe Mixon

 

#Broncos Pick 2.28 RJ HARVEY 5’9” 208 4.40/40

Instinctive runner with good lateral agility and speed to breakaway. Fluid runner and receiver but not great as a pass blocker. Will use lateral quickness to bounce outside vs following blockers but when he finds a seam excels at avoiding tacklers in open field. Nose for the end zone when he sees daylight.

NFL Comp = Austin Ekeler

 

Here’s three day 3 draft picks that could surprise

 

#Giants Pick 4.3 CAM SKATTEBO 5’10” 219 4.60

Combination of power and contact balance gives some great highlights. Good hands as a pass catcher but not good range to bring in throws. Not the most agile runner and lacks desired speed for the next level. But angry workman play style should afford opportunities especially in short yardage situations.

NFL Comp = AJ Dillon

 

#Cowboys Pick 5.12 JAYDON BLUE 5’9” 196 4.38/40

Don’t let him loose. Elite finishing speed once he gets to the second level. Good elusiveness. Solid hands. Size is a concern that will limit opportunities at the next level. Mental mistakes lead to drops & fumbles

NFL Comp = Justice Hill

 

#Commanders Pick 7.29 JACORY CROSKEY-MERRITT 5’11” 208 4.4

Size, Speed & Skillset and effort. Good vision and cut ability. Runs with power and purpose. Contact balance. Missed most of senior season due to eligibility issues. Will be 24 y/o rookie. Skillset should not be dismissed.

NFL Comp = Matt Forte

Who is your favorite rookie RB for fantasy? And what rookie do you have your eye on as a sleeper for 2025?

 

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