The anticipation surrounding the 2025 running back draft class suggests a potential shift in dynamics. Early indications hint at a wealth of talent poised to make significant waves in the early rounds of selections. Perhaps the Cowboys were wise to go the bargain basement route as they prepare for a running back by committee approach to the 2024 season.
Unlike the 2024 draft, where the running back position seemed subdued, the upcoming class appears primed to inject a new level of excitement and competition into the early rounds. With promising prospects emerging on the collegiate scene, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation among fans and analysts alike, eager to witness the impact these dynamic runners will have on the professional stage.
Dallas’ running back room presents an intriguing mix of talent and uncertainty. Following a season that saw Ezekiel Elliott wearing a different uniform for the first time in his professional career, he has returned on a one-year deal. Questions loom regarding his ability to reclaim his status as the undisputed lead back. Tony Pollard, 2023’s starter, has departed to Tennessee. Additionally, with the return of the oft-injured Rico Dowdle, the depth behind Elliott becomes a point of concern.
The future at the running back position for the Cowboys looks to be one formed by a committee. Fresh elite talent is considered a need by many of Cowboys Nation. Here’s a look at some of the prospects available in next year’s draft.
Quinshon Judkins, a recent transfer addition to Ohio State, is anticipated to become one of the prominent backs in college football. He will form a dynamic partnership with senior running back TreVeyon Henderson. Joining the team in January, Judkins participated in OSU’s spring drills, demonstrating his commitment to the program. As a true junior majoring in human development and family services, he brings both athletic prowess and academic dedication to the team.
Judkins boasts an array of accolades, including being named first-team all-SEC in 2023 and earning recognition as CBS National Freshman of the Year in 2022. During his tenure at Ole Miss, Judkins showcased remarkable performance, starting 19 of 26 games. Notably, he tied Deuce McAllister’s record with 14 career 100-yard rushing games and set several single-season records in 2022. His outstanding achievements include leading the SEC in rushing touchdowns in 2023 and excelling in games against formidable opponents like Arkansas, Texas A&M, and LSU.
TreVeyon Henderson is poised to be one of the premier running backs for the upcoming 2024 season. With impressive career stats totaling 2,745 rushing yards and 37 touchdowns, forming a formidable duo with Judkins. Henderson has showcased his talent over 31 games in the last three seasons, starting 29. His remarkable performances rank him 15th in Ohio State’s history for career rushing yards, sharing the eighth position in touchdowns. Henderson’s comeback in 2023 after an injury in 2022 was exceptional, earning him first-team All-Big Ten Conference honors.
He has displayed consistency and versatility, with multiple 100-yard rushing games and impressive receiving stats. Henderson’s accolades include being a Freshman All-American in 2021 and securing first-team All-Big Ten Conference honors in 2023. Beyond his athletic prowess, Henderson’s academic achievements and character further distinguish him, making him a standout figure both on and off the field.
In 2023, Ollie Gordon II, the talented running back for Oklahoma State, enjoyed a remarkable season, culminating in numerous prestigious awards and recognitions. He claimed the coveted Doak Walker Award, identifying him as the nation’s top running back, along with unanimous All-America honors. Additionally, he was crowned the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year by both coaches and the Associated Press, solidifying his status as one of college football’s premier talents. Gordon also secured the Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award and finished seventh in the Heisman Trophy voting.
As a sophomore, Gordon’s achievements were staggering. Leading the nation in rushing yards, he amassed an impressive 1,732 yards on the ground with 21 rushing touchdowns. His dynamic playmaking abilities extended beyond traditional rushing statistics, as he also excelled in receiving, totaling 39 catches for 330 yards and contributing significantly to his team’s offensive prowess.
Gordon’s remarkable season was highlighted by several historic performances, including consecutive games with over 250 scrimmage yards, a feat unmatched in the past decade of college football. His exceptional performances against West Virginia and Cincinnati catapulted him into the national spotlight, drawing comparisons to legendary figures like Barry Sanders.
Despite the team’s offensive emphasis on passing, Gordon’s dominance on the ground was unparalleled. His season statistics shattered records at Oklahoma State, firmly establishing his legacy in the school’s annals. Not only did he excel statistically, but Gordon also demonstrated resilience and leadership, playing a pivotal role in crucial victories and rallying his team during high-pressure moments. His consistency, versatility, and explosive playmaking abilities earned him widespread acclaim, making him a formidable force on the collegiate gridiron.
Gordon’s journey to collegiate stardom began in high school, where he garnered attention for his exceptional talents. Rated as a unanimous four-star prospect by leading recruiting services, he emerged as one of the most sought-after recruits in the nation. Opting to enroll early at Oklahoma State, Gordon wasted no time in making an impact, showcasing his abilities from his freshman year onward. His dedication, skill, and tenacity have propelled him to the forefront of college football, setting the stage for a promising future both on and off the field.
Throughout his collegiate career at North Carolina, Omarion Hampton has amassed accolades and distinctions cementing his status as one of the premier players in college football. In his sophomore season he emerged as a standout performer, earning recognition as a Walter Camp first-team All-American and securing second-team All-America honors from organizations such as the AFCA, AP, Sporting News, Sports Illustrated, and CBS Sports.
Hampton was named a finalist for the prestigious Doak Walker Award, a testament to his exceptional skill and impact on the field.
During the 2023 campaign, Hampton showcased remarkable versatility and consistency, contributing significantly to his team’s success. With 1,504 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns, he ranked among the nation’s top performers in several statistical categories including rushing yards, yards per game, and yards from scrimmage per game. Notably, Hampton became the first Tar Heel since 2011 to surpass 100 rushing yards in seven games and achieved six consecutive 100-yard games, a feat not seen since 1970. His exceptional performance propelled him to fifth in the FBS in rushing yards and garnered him recognition as the ACC’s top rusher.
In addition to his on-field achievements, Hampton’s high school career was equally impressive. As a four-star prospect, he garnered widespread attention and accolades, establishing himself as one of North Carolina’s top players. With a remarkable rushing record of 5,370 yards and 88 touchdowns, he left an indelible mark on the high school football scene, earning numerous awards and distinctions.
Beyond his athletic prowess, Hampton’s personal journey reflects dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence. With a supportive family background and a passion for the game, he has overcome challenges and obstacles to achieve success both on and off the field.
Throughout Ashton Jeanty’s dynamic collegiate career for Boise State, he has garnered an impressive array of honors and accolades, solidifying his status as one of the most outstanding athletes in college football. In his sophomore season, he earned prestigious distinctions such as College Football Network First Team All-America, ESPN First Team All-America, USA Today First Team All-America, and Action Network Second Team All-America, among others. Jeanty’s exceptional performance on the field and his academic achievements were recognized with awards such as the Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year and Academic All-Mountain West.
During Jeanty’s sophomore campaign, he showcased remarkable skill and versatility, leading the Mountain West Conference in various statistical categories. With notable achievements like 1,347 rushing yards, 569 receiving yards, and 19 total touchdowns, he left an indelible mark on the field. Additionally, Jeanty displayed exceptional athleticism and playmaking ability, evident in highlights such as his career-long 68-yard rush against San Jose State and his 107 rushing yards combined with 118 receiving yards against Air Force.
Before Jeanty’s collegiate career, he was making waves in high school, earning accolades such as being named to the Texas District 5-5A D-I First Team as a wide receiver and being recognized as the Defensive Newcomer of the Year. His versatility on both offense and defense showcased his athleticism and potential for success at the collegiate level.
Overall, Jeanty’s journey from high school standout to collegiate star has been marked by consistent excellence and a relentless pursuit of success both on and off the field.