Ashton Jeanty isn’t just one of the top running backs in the 2025 NFL Draft; he’s one of the most dynamic playmakers in the entire class. The Boise State star put together a historic final season, finishing second in Heisman Trophy voting to the winner, Travis Hunter.
Jeanty rushed for 2,601 yards on 374 carries, averaging 7.0 yards per attempt while scoring 29 touchdowns. Whether it was breaking off explosive runs, catching passes out of the backfield, or picking up crucial blocks in pass protection, Jeanty was a game-changer every time he touched the ball.
Now, as he gets set for the draft, he’s already caught the attention of almost half the teams in the league. After a busy week at the NFL Combine, Jeanty met with 15 different organizations, and one team in particular stood out to him.
Ashton Jeanty Shouts Out Vikings After Meeting
During a recent interview with Josina Anderson, Jeanty was asked about what stood out to him from his meetings with NFL teams. One team left a lasting impression.
“I liked the meeting with the Vikings,” Jeanty said. “They were teaching me a new pass protection. It was kind of similar to one I did back in college, so them already kind of showing me their philosophies early on — I thought that was cool.”
The Exhibit 1-on-1 w/ RB Ashton Jeanty@DRINKBodyArmor
-How he'd convince QB needy teams to pick him
-Treating Saquon Barkley & Derrick Henry for upping his $
-Thoughts on playing for the #Cowboys
-Liking his #Vikings interview
-Fashion critiquesFULL: https://t.co/05YlkuFwDo pic.twitter.com/JF0y6ZadMf
— JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) February 28, 2025
The Vikings could definitely use an upgrade at running back, and Jeanty’s ability to contribute in multiple phases of the game makes him a prime target. With Minnesota’s current backfield situation in flux, adding a dynamic weapon like Jeanty could give their offense a major boost.
Jeanty’s Fit with the Vikings
Pairing Jeanty with the Vikings doesn’t seem so out of the question.
Rumors are swirling that the Vikings may move on from 1,100-yard rusher Aaron Jones, which leaves Ty Chandler as the next man up in Minnesota’s running back room.
Chandler was expected to make a leap last season but only ran for 3.3 yards per carry, 182 rushing yards, and zero touchdowns. He wasn’t a receiving threat either, which drastically hurt his value to the team.
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Jeanty’s presence offers a different dynamic for the Vikings, and even if Jones were to stick around for at least one more year, having Jeanty would solidify Minnesota’s backfield for years to come.
Based on the interview with Anderson, the Vikings seemed to have won over the Heisman runner-up. The big question is: Will Jeanty slide to pick 24, which is where Minnesota picks? It remains to be seen.
Where Jeanty Lands in the Latest PFSN Mock Draft
While the Vikings showed strong interest, they might not get the chance to land Jeanty on draft night. According to the latest 7-Round PFSN Mock Draft from Jacob Infante, the Dallas Cowboys are projected to select him at 12th overall.
Infante writes, “The Dallas Cowboys’ run game was quite ineffective in 2024, and ownership certainly has a love for big-name talent. It seems like the perfect marriage to see America’s Team end up with the top running back in college football.
“Ashton Jeanty put up video-game numbers for Boise State this year. He’s an intelligent runner with the agility, contact balance, ball-carrier vision, and value on passing downs needed to project as a high-impact starter in the backfield.”
It’s worth noting that Jeanty has deep ties to the Dallas area. When asked about the possibility of playing for his hometown team, he said:
“I think it would be pretty cool, being that I grew up in Frisco, Texas, went to high school out there, and like you said, it wouldn’t be bad for playing the Cowboys,” Jeanty said.
Who Are the Vikings Projected To Select?
As for the Vikings? Infante has them selecting South Carolina safety Nick Emmanwori at 24th overall.
“Because of their trade-up for Dallas Turner, the Minnesota Vikings currently don’t have their original draft picks in the second, third, or fourth rounds,” Infante said.
“They might make trades to recoup some of that capital back, but if they stay put at No. 24, they better make that pick count.
“Nick Emmanwori is a lengthy, versatile defensive back who can cover in the box, out of the slot, and as a deep safety. He’s explosive with impressive ball skills, and his rare physical profile could see him utilized all over the field in Minnesota’s defense.”