Quinshon Judkins, the Ohio State running back who made a significant impact after transferring from Ole Miss, has declared for the 2025 NFL draft. His decision sets the stage for a potentially exciting draft process, with several teams likely eyeing his blend of size, strength, and receiving ability. Judkins’s impressive 1,060 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns during Ohio State’s national championship run showcased his potential to be a productive NFL running back, making him an attractive prospect for teams looking to bolster their ground game.
The Los Angeles Chargers stand out as a potential landing spot for Judkins. Their rushing attack ranked a disappointing 20th in the league, a far cry from the standards set by head coach Jim Harbaugh, who emphasizes a strong running game. With J.K. Dobbins’s impending free agency, Gus Edwards’s injury concerns, and Kimani Vidal’s limited experience, the Chargers could view Judkins as the powerful, between-the-tackles runner they need to establish a more consistent ground attack. His physical style aligns perfectly with Harbaugh’s preferred offensive approach.
The Dallas Cowboys also present a compelling case for drafting Judkins. Their inconsistent running game has often placed undue pressure on quarterback Dak Prescott, highlighting the need for a reliable ball carrier. With Rico Dowdle heading towards free agency, the Cowboys could address the running back position through the draft. While they might consider Ashton Jeanty with their first-round pick, Judkins represents a potentially high-value selection on Day 2, providing a dynamic complement to their passing attack.
The Pittsburgh Steelers face uncertainty at the running back position with Najee Harris entering free agency. Although Jaylen Warren showed promise, his ability to handle a full workload as a lead back remains to be seen. The Steelers have a history of drafting Ohio State players, including defensive lineman Cameron Heyward, which could further solidify their interest in Judkins. His combination of power and receiving skills could make him a valuable asset in Pittsburgh’s offensive scheme.
The Denver Broncos have struggled to establish a consistent running game in recent seasons. Head coach Sean Payton, during his tenure with the New Orleans Saints, consistently featured a prominent running back, such as Mark Ingram or Alvin Kamara. Judkins could provide the Broncos with a similar dynamic back, offering a much-needed boost to their offense and alleviating some of the pressure on quarterback Bo Nix.
The Las Vegas Raiders also present a potential landing spot for Judkins. Their running back situation is precarious, with Zamir White’s season curtailed by injury and Alexander Mattison leading the team with a meager 420 rushing yards. This underscores the Raiders’ urgent need for a reliable running back. While they have other positional needs, upgrading the running back position could be a priority to establish a more balanced and effective offense.
In summary, Quinshon Judkins’s decision to declare for the 2025 NFL draft positions him as a highly sought-after running back prospect. His size, strength, and receiving skills make him an attractive option for teams seeking to improve their ground game. The Chargers, Cowboys, Steelers, Broncos, and Raiders all present plausible scenarios for Judkins to land, each team facing distinct needs at the running back position. The upcoming draft process will be crucial for Judkins to solidify his draft stock and ultimately find the right fit for his talents at the professional level.
