Ashton Jeanty NFL Draft Overview
In the NFL, the passing game ruled the league in the 2010s and early 2020s. The passing revolution was led by great Quarterbacks, innovative offensive schemes, and rules that heavily benefited offensive players. However, the 2023 and 2024 seasons have seen a decrease in scoring and passing yards. NFL players have adapted to the rules, and defensive coaches have adjusted their schemes. No longer is there an abundance of big plays as defenses make offenses methodically march the ball downfield.
How do you counter? RUN THAT FOOTBALL. The running game is back, baby, and this upcoming Running back class is ELITE. First up is Boise State Ashton Jeanty. Jeanty was a four-star recruit out of Frisco, Texas, committed to the Boise State Broncos. Ashton rose to fame after a stellar sophomore season with 220 carries, 1347 yards, and 14 touchdowns. Ashton Jeanty also showed soft hands out the backfields with 43 catches, 569 yards, and five touchdowns. The star running back is off to a crazy hot start with nine touchdowns in two games!! How will Ashton’s superstar talent fit in the NFL? Let’s dig into the film!
Height: 6’2 inches (u)
Weight: 21 years old (u)
Ashton Jeanty Player Evaluation
Jeanty’s Strengths
- Generational contact balance. He rarely goes down on the first contact and, if he does, still falls forward. Jeanty has a unique talent for absorbing and dishing out hits.
- He is seen consistently gaining extra yards after contact while having superb ball security.
- Jeanty’s over 500 yards receiving is a testament to his dual-threat capability. He can run basic routes and get open with ease, showcasing his impressive hands. This makes him a three-down back, capable of making an impact whether receiving or running, instilling confidence in his versatility.
- He has not missed a game in college, which signifies his outstanding durability and ability to carry the load.
- He has elite vision and the ability to find running lanes, accelerating through the hole.
- Jeanty also gets the tough yards and makes the most of each play.
Jeanty’s Weakness
- Route running as a receiver needs refinement to become more than check down back.
- A high usage rate due to being on a bad team is a concern.
- He’s been one of the few options on his team, which means a heavy workload. Potential red flag on wear and tear.
- Relies heavily on physicality, which may decrease NFL effectiveness over time.
Projection: First Round Pick
Best Fits: Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Chargers, Baltimore Ravens
Bottom Line
Ashton Jeanty is a player of impressive versatility. His skills as a dual-threat running back, his contact balance, and his ability to churn out extra yards after initial contact make him a tough runner between the tackles. Jeanty’s soft hands and capability in the passing game add significant value, allowing him to stay on the field in various down-and-distance situations. His high football IQ and ability to read defenses enhance his effectiveness.
On the flip side, Jeanty needs improvement in some areas. His route running is not as polished, and his vision can be hit or miss, sometimes leading to missed opportunities to find the best gaps. While he has proven durable, the heavy college workload raises some durability red flags for the next level. Jeanty’s performance against top-tier defenses has been inconsistent, showing he still has room to grow.
Jeanty projects as a valuable rotational back with the potential to break out as a feature back in the NFL. His ability to protect the quarterback and contribute on all three downs makes him a scheme-versatile asset. Teams seeking a reliable, challenging runner with upside in the passing game will find Jeanty an intriguing prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft.
Watch – Way Too Early 2025 Dynasty Rookie Rankings
Main Photo Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
