Running back is the deepest position in the 2025 NFL draft and will be on full display at the Senior Bowl
The Las Vegas Raiders are searching for a quarterback, but another position was just as disappointing in 2024. Running the football was supposed to be the identity of the Silver and black, but they struggled to run the ball throughout the season. It led to them being 32nd in YPC and the team having to depend on a passing game that didn’t have a quarterback for the future.
While the Raiders could add a few players in free agency, they can find help in the draft. The 2025 RB class is deep and led by Ashton Jenty out of Boise State, who was the runner-up for the Heisman Trophy. However, there are plenty of options, with different backs adding their flavor to the position.
The first chance fans will be able to see this group in the Senior Bowl. The Senior Bowl starts the draft season, during which the NFL teams gather and scout the practices during the week. Running backs with a chance to shine at the next level will be able to exhibit why it could be the best overall position in the 2025 draft.
Cam Skattebo is a household name who will be able to display his talents. Skattebo had a breakout season with Arizona St, helping lead to their college football playoffs. He rushed for 1711 yards and 24 total touchdowns on the season. Skattebo wants to improve his draft stock and solidify himself as one of the best prospects 2025.
This is my favorite run because #47 plays it so well it just didn’t matter. Got ran over by Skattebo. pic.twitter.com/46TExcZD38
— Marcus Johnson (@TheMarcJohnNFL) January 12, 2025
A player who came into the season challenging for RB1 is Ollie Gordon II from Oklahoma State. At 6’1, and 233 pounds, Gordon displays the traits of a three-down back. He has a great feel as a running back and is physical as a pass blocker. Mix that with his ability to catch the football out of the backfield, and Gordon could raise his stock with a great week.
Ollie Gordon’s measurements today were 6’1 233 pounds
And he acts like it with the ball in his hands. Pure hit stick on #19 pic.twitter.com/RDz9fA1n72
— Marcus Johnson (@TheMarcJohnNFL) January 27, 2025
Devin Neal from Kansas came on the radar of football fans with his performance against Colorado. He averaged 5.8 YPC on the season with 1266 yards. Neal has a long speed and the elusiveness to create explosive plays in the run game. When he is in the open field, he is a must-watch T.V., and he will do work in the one-on-ones vs. the linebackers and safeties.
Devin Neal got everyone’s attention vs Colorado. Free defender and makes them miss. Hits a dead leg on the corner and gets a big gain. pic.twitter.com/ZxafC7zuYY
— Marcus Johnson (@TheMarcJohnNFL) January 14, 2025
Other running backs include RJ Harvey from UCF. Donavan Edwards from Michigan and Trevor Etienne from Georiga exhibit the group’s depth. Pete Carroll drafted second-round running backs in 2022 and 2023. It is important for the culture of a new era, and the Raiders will have a long list of options in the 2025 NFL draft.