Recent times have marked a significant comeback of top-quality running backs within the NFL, and among those leading this renaissance is the phenomenal talent of Ashton Jeanty. The 2025 sixth overall draft pick, Jeanty set records at Boise State during one of the most remarkable college football seasons ever. Although he narrowly missed out on the Heisman Trophy to multi-talented Colorado player, Travis Hunter, Jeanty’s sheer ability deemed him one of the most exceptional talents in the draft, worthy of prime consideration in any role. It only follows that his skills and versatility will undoubtedly shine in his new home, Las Vegas.
The interviews conducted throughout this year have been unanimous in highlighting Jeanty as by far the most exceptional of all. Even before his blazing 2024 season, Jeanty was creating a buzz for himself in college football. However, in spite of expectations for a move to a bigger program, his commitment to the Broncos was unwavering. Jeanty’s decision to stay put and valiantly lead them into the College Football Playoff astounded everyone.
‘How on earth did Boise State manage to keep Jeanty from transferring?’ was a common question going around. To which Jeanty confidently replied, ‘Yes, I could have picked any team I wanted. But, I have always chosen Boise State.’ The admiration for Jeanty’s unwavering loyalty was evident in the awe-filled voices of many.
Jeanty’s journey in football has seen him traverse various landscapes, from Italy, where his father was posted with the U.S. Navy, to Texas, and then finally to Boise for his college years. As many who’ve been part of his journey will tell you, the narrative of this grounded young man, who moved from overseas to Texas, then shone at Boise, is as amazing as it is inspiring.
Jeanty, often compared to a rolling bowling ball, has had a surefire presence on the field, his burly, powerful stature making him an unstoppable force on the college field. A beastly one-man-army, impossible to take down single-handedly, his speed saw him as a constant threat to break free to the end zone with each possession. The completeness of his skill set, combined with his aptitude as a runner and receiver, as well as his readiness to block, make him the ideal running back candidate that any NFL team would be ecstatic to draft.
When Jeanty is observed up close, the physical dominance he commands is striking. His body is lean and agile, devoid of any excess, yet carrying immense power. His quickness on the field, catching ability, blocking strength, and lightning speed have rightfully earned him the admiration of many. Jeanty is everything a scout would look for in a running back and more.
In Las Vegas, Jeanty is under the guidance of new head coach Pete Carroll, who is known for giving significant importance to the running game in his offensive strategy. Fellow experts and enthusiasts could not think of a more ideal match than Jeanty for Carroll’s strategic approach.
Beyond Jeanty’s physical prowess, the fact that he managed to produce phenomenal figures during his 2024 season at Boise State facing heavily loaded defenses is truly commendable. His opponents did everything they could to hem him in at the scrimmage line but to no avail.
The adversaries Jeanty will face in the NFL will be tougher, but there is an air of certainty amongst his fans and experts that even minimal support from his teammates will let Jeanty make an immediate hefty contribution to The Raiders. Some even foresee him chasing after more records in his debut year itself.
Pundits suggest, ‘If the team creates opportune running lanes for Jeanty, and if they can keep the defenses from crowding the box with eight or nine players, he will truly shine. Indeed, we could see him rush for 1700, maybe 1800 yards. That’s a real possibility.’
While the anticipation for Jeanty’s professional debut in the NFL intensifies, the spotlight is just not on his exceptional on-field prowess. The intangible qualities and the mental strength that Jeanty brings to the field are what make him a multifaceted marvel in the world of football.