Texas RB Jaydon Blue viewed as most polarizing running back prospect in 2025 NFL Draft as analysts debate where he will be selected
The Texas Longhorns are coming off of a 13-win season in 2024, the best campaign they have had under head coach Steve Sarkisian to date. He is a brilliant offensive mind, and it wasn't overly shocking to see some more dynamic playmakers emerge this past season. One of the more underrated players on the roster […]
The Texas Longhorns are coming off of a 13-win season in 2024, the best campaign they have had under head coach Steve Sarkisian to date. He is a brilliant offensive mind, and it wasn't overly shocking to see some more dynamic playmakers emerge this past season. One of the more underrated players on the roster is running Jaydon Blue, who rushed for 730 yards and eight touchdowns, while also hauling in 42 receptions for 368 yards and six more scores.
Blue brings an intriguing blend of movement skills and receiving impact that should be attractive to some NFL evaluators and decision makers. In the 2025 NFL Draft class, Blue is fighting amidst a deep and talented running back class, and where exactly he stands remains a bit of a question. There are split opinions out there, including on the A to Z Sports staff.
NFL Draft analyst Ian Valentino remains a bit lower on Blue, having him currently ranked as his No. 19 running back in the class. I, in comparison, have him pegged as the No. 9 running back of the group. Here is a case for both sides.
Case for Jaydon Blue going earlier
This is a deep and loaded running back class, but there are only a couple of runners who project as every down runners. When you get into the second and third tiers of this class, it is going to come down to preference, and the flavor of player you are looking for. If you had to pick a running back who is at least going to be a weapon as a third down back, there is no cleaner evaluation than Blue.
While he isn't the most natural runner of all time, Blue possesses some tremendous short area explosiveness and long speed. He is also a deceptive runner that can make some players miss in tight windows. As a pass receiver, there is no back better in this class than Blue. He should, at worst, become a valuable satellite back. At around the latter part of Day Two (rounds 2-3), that presents potential value.
Case against Jaydon Blue
It's easy to love Jaydon Blue's speed and his upside as a receiver, but can you trust him? I'd agree with anyone saying that his potential makes him more intriguing, but I've been burned so many times by guys with similar profiles.
His history isn't promising, and is as important to me as his on-field ability.
Blue missed two years of high school football due to knee injuries. He then sat out his senior season to protect his body.
A preseason knee injury and a sprained ankle popped up as challenges for Blue this season and likely contributed further to his decision. Looking beyond his lack of durability, though, reveals an explosive rusher and receiver. But he also had five fumbles on 134 carries in 2024.
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