Shawn’s Top 10 Rookie RBs
By Shawn Lugo
1-Ashton Jeanty LV
1,970 yards after contact for Ashton Jeanty! That's just nuts folks. That’s not just elite, it’s historic. For perspective, that means even if defenders got to him instantly, he still turned runs into chunk plays almost every time. And the fact that the entire Raiders rushing unit couldn’t even match that total with 380 attempts? Brutal for Vegas, but a huge endorsement for Jeanty.
If he brings even half that production to the NFL, “culture change” for the Raiders might be an understatement.
Ashton Jeanty’s contact balance, vision, and ability to create yards after getting hit do echo prime Marshawn Lynch.
If Jeanty can bring that same edge and durability at the NFL level — behind a decent O-line — it’s not crazy to say he could exceed what Lynch did in terms of raw production.
2- RJ Harvey Den
The Dynasty/Fantasy community can sometimes over-obsess with age at the expense of actual talent and situation. RJ Harvey being 24 doesn’t mean he’s a one-contract wonder. If the Broncos are running a true committee with Estime, and Payton has invested more than (2+ hours on tape isn’t nothing), Harvey could smash expectations.
My comparison is Ray Rice. Not wild. Both are compact, tough runners with burst, contact balance, and pass-game value. Harvey's vision and acceleration give him that home-run threat every time he touches the ball.
If he gets 12–15 touches a game,( which looks like a given) he’s a sneaky breakout pick and my number 2 rookie RB both in real football and dynasty formats.
Question to answer is, will Harvey or Estime has the better chance to lead that backfield in touches Week 1? Time will tell..For me its wheels up RJ!!
3- Omarion Hampton LAC
Omarion Hampton’s contact balance, pad level, and violent finish screams Josh Jacobs. You guessed it, my comp is Josh Jacobs! Not the flashiest runner, but a grind-you-down, chain-moving back who wears defenses out by Q4.
At 6’0”, 220 lbs with 97th percentile YAC/Att, Hampton isn’t trying to dance — he’s trying to break your will. And now he’s in a Jim Harbaugh system built around physicality, gap concepts, and establishing the run! That’s a dream scenario. Harbaugh loves bell-cow backs, and Hampton is built for that 20+ touch workload.
He may not clock a 4.4, but with that vision and toughness, he's going to be a problem behind that O-line.
I don't think Hampton becomes the lead guy right away over Harris.. But I bet it don't take long before he owns this backfield!!
4-Kaleb Johnson Pitt
Kaleb Johnson to the Steelers feels like one of the most under-the-radar perfect fits of the 2025 draft.
The fact that Tomlin is already using phrases like “high volume carries” and that they brought in so many RBs for visits despite minimal draft capital says everything about how seriously they view the position. Johnson’s ability to glide in outside zone, paired with his patience and vision, makes him an ideal plug-and-play back in the Steelers offense.
He may not have the receiving ceiling of some others in the class, but if you’re looking for a physical, early-down enforcer who can carry 18+ times a game, Kaleb fits that mold — especially with zero long-term RB commitments on the roster.
I want to say I see him taking over the RB1 job from Day 1, but I beileve the Steelers will ease him in behind Jaylen Warren who is a very efficient back in his own right.
5- Quinshon Judkins Cle
Quinshon Judkins is already turning heads, and it's easy to see why. His elite footwork, combined with that powerful 6'0", 221-pound frame, makes him a nightmare for defenders. The AFC North is known for its physical, hard-nosed football, and Judkins fits that mold perfectly.
He's not just a bruiser—his burst and ability to change direction in tight spaces are special. If he stays healthy, he could be a cornerstone for the Browns' offense for years to come. The Nick Chubb succession plan might already be in motion.
My only hesitation is if Sampson carves out a legitimate role, especially in the passing game or in two-minute situations, it could cap Judkins’ ceiling just enough to keep him from reaching true RB1 territory.
6- Jaydon Blue Dal
The Cowboys new RB is electric—this kid is built for the spotlight in Dallas.
That 4.28 speed is game-breaking, and the advanced metrics back up the eye test. He’s not just a burner—he’s a creator. 73% of his rushing yards after contact. That screams toughness and vision. 4.0 yards after contact per carry puts him in rare company, and he's slippery in tight spaces. 3.4 YPC when hit at or behind the line shows he doesn’t need perfect blocking to produce—he makes his own space. 25% target share and 16% of routes from the slot? That versatility is huge, especially in today’s NFL where RBs need to be true weapons in the passing game. Dallas might’ve just landed a modern do-it-all back with elite upside. If they give him touches early, Jaydon Blue could become a star fast.
7- Treyvon Henderson NE
Hendo to the Patriots is a sneaky elite fit—exactly the kind of versatile, explosive weapon they’ve lacked. Explosive in space with that home-run ability every time he touches the ball Breakaway speed that puts real pressure on defenses Elite foot quickness for sharp cuts and making defenders miss in tight areas Reliable hands and strong pass protection make him a true three-down option. In a New England offense searching for identity, Henderson gives them a dual-threat back who can stay on the field in any situation. He’s not just insurance—he’s a potential focal point. Outside of Jeanty, he might have the highest ceiling in the class. If the Patriots unlock him, he could absolutely take off.
8- Breshard Smith KC
Brashard Smith to the Chiefs might be one of the most slept-on moves of the draft—and exactly the kind of upside swing Kansas City loves. Vision & patience in gap schemes? Already veteran-like. No wasted motion, keeps stride through the hole—rare for someone with WR roots.
4.39 speed, plus kick return chops possibly. That’s dangerous in Andy Reid’s system.
1,332 rush yards, 14 TDs, 39 receptions for 327 yards and 4 TDs. That’s legit dual-threat production on a playoff-caliber team. The former WR background gives him slot versatility and makes him a nightmare in empty sets perfect for Mahomes to exploit mismatches. Yes, there are areas for refinement (pass pro, ball security, some vision lapses), and he's not as polished as others, but the ceiling is explosive. If KC develops him right, Brashard Smith could be the next gadget-turned-feature weapon in that offense. Major sleeper.
9- Cam Skattebo NYG
You can’t ignore a pure football player when you see one — and Cam Skattebo is exactly that. The Giants made an excellent pick here. He consistently shows up, especially in critical moments when his team needs him most. He might not be the biggest or the fastest, but he plays with unmatched heart. Skattebo will do whatever it takes to help his team win.Elite production Over 2,300 all-purpose yards 100+ missed tackles forced 500+ receiving yards in 2024 Loved his traits on film tough, versatile, relentless High-character, passionate, and always available
Skattebo brings the kind of grit and consistency that can’t be taught — a true difference-maker with a football-first mindset.
10- Jarquez Hunter LAR
Jarquez Hunter might just be this year’s DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH
The Rams traded up in the 4th round to get their guy and both Les Snead and Sean McVay were pounding the table for Jarquez Hunter. He’s exactly what the Rams have been missing, explosiveness, juice, and big-play upside. Why Hunter? Elite vision and natural tendency, big play threat with legit breakaway speed, ankle-breaking agility in space.
GM Les Snead has already said he’ll be involved early. Yes, Kyren Williams is still the starter… for now. But with Williams on a backup salary entering the final year of his deal, the door is open. Hunter (and possibly Corum) bring an explosive trait Kyren just doesn’t have. It may take a year, but the takeover is coming. Jarquez Hunter is one of the most explosive backs in this class and the Rams knew it
Honorable Mention
Jacory Croskey- Merritt Wash tough, physical, and fearless player who plays with a lot of intensity.
Ekeler's might be safe but watch out B Rob.
