Quinshon Judkins, a standout running back for Ohio State, recently announced his decision to enter the 2025 NFL Draft, expressing gratitude to Ohio State supporters for their unwavering support during his collegiate career. In his announcement, Judkins also acknowledged concerns about his prospects and standing in the league, reflecting a thoughtful approach to his professional future.
Collegiate Career and Achievements
Judkins began his college career at Ole Miss, where he made an immediate impact. Over two seasons, he accumulated 2,725 rushing yards and 31 touchdowns, earning First-Team All-SEC honors in both years. Seeking new challenges and opportunities, Judkins transferred to Ohio State before the 2024 season. At Ohio State, he continued his impressive performance, rushing for 1,060 yards and 14 touchdowns, and contributing 161 receiving yards with two touchdowns. His efforts were instrumental in Ohio State’s national championship victory, notably scoring two rushing touchdowns and a receiving touchdown in the title game against Notre Dame.
Strengths and Skills
Judkins is renowned for his physical running style, characterized by his ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact. Standing at 6 feet and weighing approximately 219 pounds, he possesses a compact and powerful build that enables him to run through defenders effectively. His vision and patience allow him to find and exploit running lanes, making him a versatile threat in various offensive schemes. Additionally, Judkins has demonstrated proficiency as a pass-catcher out of the backfield, enhancing his value as a potential three-down back in the NFL.
Areas of Concern
Despite his impressive skill set, there are concerns regarding Judkins’ transition to the professional level. Scouting reports have noted a lack of elite top-end speed, which may limit his ability to break away for long runs. Additionally, while he is a willing pass protector, there is room for improvement in his technique to consistently handle NFL pass rushers. Some analysts also point out subtle stiffness in his hips, potentially affecting his lateral agility and elusiveness in open space.
NFL Draft Projection
The 2025 NFL Draft features a deep class of running backs, which could impact Judkins’ draft position. While his talent and collegiate production suggest a high draft value, the abundance of running back prospects may cause him to be selected in the second or third round. Teams seeking a powerful, between-the-tackles runner with pass-catching abilities will likely find Judkins an attractive option. However, his draft stock may be influenced by team-specific needs and the overall valuation of running backs in the current NFL landscape.