2025 NFL Draft Position Breakdown: RB Class Could Be Best in Decades

An in-depth analysis of the 2025 NFL Draft class, highlighting the deep running back talent, position rankings, and potential draft steals.

Position-by-Position Analysis of the 2025 NFL Draft Class

1. Running Back

  • First-round graded players: 2 (Ashton Jeanty, Boise State & Omarion Hampton, North Carolina)
  • Top 100 prospects: 11

Overview: This RB class is being compared to the legendary 2008 group, with elite talent at the top and unprecedented depth. Teams will find starting-caliber backs well into Day 3.

Team Fit:

  • Chicago Bears could land Kaleb Johnson in Round 2 - a perfect zone-run scheme fit at 6'1", 224 lbs

Sleeper Alert:

  • Texas Tech's Tahj Brooks (5'9", 214 lbs) - All-time program rushing leader with 4,560 yards

2. Tight End

  • First-round graded players: 2 (Tyler Warren, Penn State & Colston Loveland, Michigan)
  • Top 100 prospects: 7

Noteworthy: Two potential top-10 TE selections would be a first since 1973. The class features both elite receiving threats and complete players.


3. Defensive Tackle

  • Top prospect: Mason Graham, Michigan (#3 overall)
  • Depth: 12 in Top 100 (vs 5-year avg of 7.2)

Standout Trait: This group excels at collapsing pockets with Graham, Nolen (Ole Miss), and Harmon (Oregon) forming an elite trio.


4. Edge Rushers

  • First-round grades: 4
  • Hybrid to watch: Georgia's Jalon Walker (#6 overall) - LB/EDGE versatility

5. Secondary Positions

  • Cornerback: Travis Hunter leads a CB class with 3 first-round grades
  • Safety: Nick Emmanwori (South Carolina) tests as rare athletic specimen

Draft Strategy Insights

  1. Running Back Value: Teams can wait until Day 2 for starting-caliber RBs
  2. TE Premium: Quality extends beyond the top two with 7 total in Top 100
  3. DT Depth: Rotational players will be available into late rounds
  4. O-Line Notes: Guard class lacks elite talent but has developmental prospects
  5. QB Outlook: Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward headline a top-heavy group

Final Thought: The 2025 draft offers something for every team, with particularly strong value at skill positions and defensive line.

What to Read Next

Heisman Trophy and National Championship Odds: Top Bets and Analysis for the 2025 NCAAF Season
NCAAF

Heisman Trophy and National Championship Odds: Top Bets and Analysis for the 2025 NCAAF Season

Dive into the latest Heisman Trophy and National Championship odds for the 2025 NCAAF season, featuring top bets, player analysis, and key insights.

2025 NCAAF Playoff Preview: Group of 5 Teams Leading the Preseason Bubble Watch
NCAAF

2025 NCAAF Playoff Preview: Group of 5 Teams Leading the Preseason Bubble Watch

A comprehensive look at the 2025 NCAAF playoff landscape, focusing on Group of 5 teams like Boise State and their chances to make the top 12.

Nico Iamaleava's Fresh Start at UCLA: A New Chapter in College Football
NCAAF

Nico Iamaleava's Fresh Start at UCLA: A New Chapter in College Football

Nico Iamaleava's move to UCLA marks a new beginning in his college football career, bringing attention and high expectations to the Bruins' program.

2025 NCAAF Season: Underdogs, Betting Trends, and Championship Contenders
NCAAF

2025 NCAAF Season: Underdogs, Betting Trends, and Championship Contenders

Explore the latest NCAAF betting trends, underdog success, and top championship contenders for the 2025 season.

2025 NCAA Football Week 1: Top Matchups, Full Schedule, and Where to Watch
NCAAF

2025 NCAA Football Week 1: Top Matchups, Full Schedule, and Where to Watch

The 2025 NCAA Football season kicks off with thrilling Week 1 matchups, including Alabama vs FSU and Ohio State vs Texas. Check out the full schedule and where to watch.

Ryan Day's Resilience: Leading Ohio State to Glory Amidst Unprecedented Pressure
NCAAF

Ryan Day's Resilience: Leading Ohio State to Glory Amidst Unprecedented Pressure

Explore how Ryan Day overcame immense pressure to lead Ohio State to a national championship, proving his mettle as one of college football's top coaches.

Is a Commissioner the Key to the Future of College Football?
NCAAF

Is a Commissioner the Key to the Future of College Football?

Exploring the potential need for a centralized commissioner in college football to address leadership and structural challenges.

2025 NCAAF Position Pricing: Breaking Down the Cost of Top College Football Talent
NCAAF

2025 NCAAF Position Pricing: Breaking Down the Cost of Top College Football Talent

Explore the skyrocketing costs of top college football positions in 2025, with insights from GMs and agents on the financial landscape of Power 4 programs.

Top 36 Game-Day Traditions in NCAA Football: A Celebration of Spirit and Pageantry
NCAAF

Top 36 Game-Day Traditions in NCAA Football: A Celebration of Spirit and Pageantry

Explore the wild, wacky, and wonderful game-day traditions that make NCAA football a unique and unforgettable experience for fans and players alike.

Rising Stars of NCAAF: CFP Breakout Performers and Their 2025 Season Outlook
NCAAF

Rising Stars of NCAAF: CFP Breakout Performers and Their 2025 Season Outlook

Discover the breakout stars of the 2024 College Football Playoff and how they aim to dominate the 2025 NCAAF season.

Top 8 NCAAF Teams to Watch in 2025: Rising Stars and Season Predictions
NCAAF

Top 8 NCAAF Teams to Watch in 2025: Rising Stars and Season Predictions

Discover the top 8 NCAAF teams poised for a breakout in 2025. Get insights on their strengths, challenges, and season predictions.

The Arch Manning Chronicles: A Football Dynasty's Next Chapter
NCAAF

The Arch Manning Chronicles: A Football Dynasty's Next Chapter

Explore the intense recruitment journey of Arch Manning, the latest star from the legendary Manning football dynasty, as he commits to the Texas Longhorns.

2025 NCAAF Playoff Predictions: Top Teams and Expert Picks
NCAAF

2025 NCAAF Playoff Predictions: Top Teams and Expert Picks

Get the latest 2025 NCAAF Playoff predictions from ESPN experts. Discover which teams are favored to make the cut this season.

Top 2025 NCAAF Recruits: Who Will Shine in Their Debut Season?
NCAAF

Top 2025 NCAAF Recruits: Who Will Shine in Their Debut Season?

Discover which top 2025 NCAAF recruits are set to make a significant impact in their debut seasons. Insights on key players and their potential roles.

Farmageddon in Ireland: The End of a 109-Year NCAAF Rivalry
NCAAF

Farmageddon in Ireland: The End of a 109-Year NCAAF Rivalry

The historic 109-year rivalry between Iowa State and Kansas State faces its end as conference realignment reshapes college football. Catch the final showdown in Ireland.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.