The 2025 NFL Draft gave us a lot of quality rookie running backs, from Ashton Jeanty being drafted sixth overall to Jacory Croskey-Merritt taken with the 245th pick by the Washington Commanders. In total, there were 25 rookie running backs selected in the 257 picks, and there can be a lot of discussions over who will be the best rookie running back this upcoming season.
The AFC North is full of hard-hitting football with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Cincinnati Bengals, Baltimore Ravens, and Cleveland Browns playing tough football. Full of strong running backs, there can be a lot of excitement coming out of the division. A former NFL MVP even thinks the best rookie running back is in the AFC North, meaning that he surpassed Jeanty, who won the 2024 Heisman Trophy.
Shaun Alexander Makes the Case for Quinshon Judkins Over Ashton Jeanty in 2025
Former NFL MVP running back Shaun Alexander appeared on the ‘Up & Adams Show’ to discuss who he believes could be the best rookie running back this season, and he surprised a lot of people with his answer.
“I like TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, the two Ohio State boys. You know Quinshon was one of my Freshman Player of the Year guys that I got to get close with, those boys both play. Quinshon’s got a shot to lowkey, turn around and hand him the ball, and actually take the thing over. I always felt he has better NFL talent than NCAA talent. … Quinshon could be the best rookie running back.”
“Quinshon could be the best rookie running back.” -Shaun Alexander
Who’s going to win rookie of the year?
+1600 for Quinshon Judkins
+2200 for TreVeyon Henderson@heykayadams | @shaunalexander | @FDSportsbook pic.twitter.com/DQ4gCNUnWM— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow)
Judkins had a strong 2024 season in his first year with the Ohio State Buckeyes as he split time with Henderson in the backfield. He finished with 194 rushing attempts for 1,060 yards (5.5 yards per carry) with 14 rushing touchdowns as well as 22 receptions for 161 yards (7.3 yards per catch) and a pair of touchdown receptions.
Now, Judkins is expected to be the lead running back for the Browns this season behind a good offensive line. The second-round back is going to have opportunities with the quarterback position being a toss-up in a four-way battle between Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders, so the offense is going to be going through someone.
Don’t forget how coach Kevin Stefanski likes to play, as the Browns have the fifth-most rushing yards in the last five years (10,960). It will be interesting to see how Cleveland looks and if Judkins can prove the 2005 NFL MVP correct.
