As the NFL season wraps up with the Philadelphia Eagles crowned as the champions of Super Bowl 59, excitement is brewing among fans. With the offseason upon us, teams are gearing up to tackle pressing issues before the 2025 season kicks off. One of the standout performers this past season was Saquon Barkley, whose remarkable achievements included rushing for over 2,000 yards and scoring a combined 20 touchdowns in both the playoffs and the regular season. His stellar performance not only contributed to the Eagles’ success but also reignited discussions about the value of running backs in the league.
Running Back Value in the NFL Draft
While the running back position isn’t always prioritized in the NFL Draft, there are instances where teams make bold moves to secure top talent. A prime example is the Detroit Lions, who faced scrutiny after selecting Jahmyr Gibbs with the 12th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Critics questioned the decision, but Gibbs has since emerged as one of the most vital offensive players in the league. His journey proves that sometimes, taking a risk on a running back can pay off handsomely.
Steelers in Need of a Running Back
Looking ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves in a tricky situation. Despite Najee Harris surpassing 1,000 rushing yards for the fourth consecutive season, his impending free agency raises questions about his future with the team. The dilemma of whether to invest in a running back looms large, and NFL.com’s Chad Reuter has made a bold prediction. He suggests that the Steelers may look to draft Harris’ replacement in the first round.
Mock Draft Predictions
In a recent mock draft, Reuter has the Steelers selecting Quinshon Judkins, a standout running back from Ohio State, with the 21st overall pick. Judkins made headlines during his true freshman year, racking up an impressive 1,567 yards and scoring 16 touchdowns. Reuter highlights Judkins’ explosive open-field burst, his keen ability to read blocks, and his toughness in running through contact as key attributes that would make him an excellent fit for the Steelers.
“Judkins’ open-field burst, ability to read blocks, and willingness to run through contact will make him a great fit for the Steelers — and he’s a nice outlet for quarterbacks out of the backfield,” Reuter stated. With Harris potentially heading for free agency, the Steelers might need to pivot quickly, and Judkins could be the answer.
Ohio State’s Running Back Legacy
Judkins isn’t the only Ohio State running back making waves in the draft. He is projected to be the second Buckeye off the board, following offensive tackle Josh Simmons, who is expected to go 20th overall. Additionally, Judkins’ teammate, fellow running back TreVeyon Henderson, is also generating buzz, landing at 77th in this mock draft to the New England Patriots. The depth of talent coming from Ohio State this year is impressive and adds to the excitement of the upcoming draft.
What’s Next for the Steelers?
So, what does this mean for the Steelers? If they do indeed select Judkins, they would be adding a dynamic playmaker to their roster. His ability to contribute both as a rusher and a receiver could provide the Steelers with a much-needed boost in their offensive strategy. With the NFL evolving into a more pass-heavy league, having a versatile running back like Judkins could open up new avenues for the Pittsburgh offense.
The Steelers will have to weigh their options carefully as they approach the draft. The decision to invest in a running back, especially one as promising as Judkins, could significantly impact their performance in the upcoming season. With the right moves, they could solidify their standing in the competitive AFC North.
The Road Ahead
As we look forward to the 2025 NFL Draft, the anticipation is palpable. Teams are strategizing, evaluating their rosters, and preparing for the crucial decisions that lie ahead. The running back position, often overlooked, is proving to be more pivotal than ever. With talents like Saquon Barkley leading the charge and promising prospects like Quinshon Judkins waiting in the wings, the landscape of the NFL is set for an exciting transformation.
Fans can expect a thrilling offseason filled with trades, draft picks, and strategic maneuvers. Will the Steelers make the bold move to draft Judkins? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: the NFL never fails to deliver excitement, and the upcoming season promises to be no different. As teams work to address their needs and build for the future, the passion for football continues to grow, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
