Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty, a projected top-10 pick in next week’s 2025 draft, issued one more public statement to NFL teams before the event begins in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Jeanty, who finished second in 2024 Heisman Trophy behind Colorado two-way star Travis Hunter, is regarded as a “generational” running back prospect. He’s a sure bet to be the first RB taken off the board, having rushed for 2,601 yards and 29 touchdowns in his final college season.
Countless mock drafts around the web have Jeanty going sixth overall to the new-look Las Vegas Raiders, who brought in Super Bowl-winning head coach Pete Carroll and Pro Bowl quarterback Geno Smith.
Even if the Raiders pass on Jeanty, it’s hard to imagine him being available after the Chicago Bears make their pick at No. 10.
In a letter published at The Players’ Tribune, Ashton Jeanty made his last public case for NFL GMs to draft him. Jeanty vowed that he could be like 2,000-yard rusher Saquon Barkley, who just helped the Philadelphia Eagles to a Super Bowl 59 championship:
“Me — in my mind? I’m still in the backyard with my friends, playing “no one can touch me.”
I’ve taken the long way. I’m done with that way. If you pick me, it’s simple: I’m coming to your franchise to do what Saquon and the Eagles just did. I’m coming to win, big, soon.
It’s TACKLE football … you know what I’m saying?
I’d draft the guy they can’t tackle.
Thank you for your time,
Ashton Jeanty”
Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty’s message to NFL teams, via @PlayersTribune:
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) April 17, 2025
🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/VpvUqwF2Mz
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Oozing with confidence and a championship mentality, what could stop running back-needy teams from drafting Jeanty now? Just look at game-changing players like Barkley, Derrick Henry, Jahmyr Gibbs, Josh Jacobs and Bijan Robinson, who’ve been instrumental in the NFL’s RB renaissance over the last two years.
Which Other Teams Could Target Ashton Jeanty?
If Jeanty is still available after the top-six, the New York Jets have to consider him with the No. 7 selection. Breece Hall is a pending free agent, and a Jeanty-Garrett Wilson-Justin Fields offense would make the Jets immediate playoff contenders.
The Carolina Panthers (No. 8) could also find it tough to pass on Jeanty if he’s there when they pick, especially with Bryce Young lacking game-changing playmakers. Even the Bears could consider Jeanty in the No. 10 spot.
