Meet the SEC and Big Ten running backs who join Raheim 'Rocket' Sanders as 2025 NFL Draft risers
The 2025 NFL Draft is becoming more of a focus as we close out the first month of college football action. Week 3 was terrific for several running backs in particular. We're tracking the latest 2025 NFL Draft risers, which takes us to several ball carriers breaking out. Let's look at Raheim "Rocket" Sanders and […]
The 2025 NFL Draft is becoming more of a focus as we close out the first month of college football action. Week 3 was terrific for several running backs in particular. We're tracking the latest 2025 NFL Draft risers, which takes us to several ball carriers breaking out.
Let's look at Raheim "Rocket" Sanders and the two other backs that ESPN analysts named as players to watch.
Rising Running Backs in 2025 NFL Draft
Rocket Sanders, Arkansas
If you've forgotten how Raheim "Rocket" Sanders was once considered a top-five running back prospect for the 2024 NFL Draft, his Saturday performance was a powerful reminder.
Before transferring to South Carolina for his final college year, Sanders played at Arkansas. Unfortunately, he spent most of the 2023 season sidelined with a knee injury, a setback that saw him lose the dominant form he displayed in 2022 when he rushed for 1,443 yards and scored 10 touchdowns.
But in Week 3, we saw Sanders at his best again. At 6 feet and weighing 230 pounds, he effortlessly maneuvered through the LSU defense, demonstrating a level of speed uncommon for someone of his stature. Despite his imposing size, Sanders moves with the agility and quickness often seen in much smaller backs.
Looking ahead to the 2025 draft, which is expected to be one of the most talent-rich in recent memory, Sanders stands out because of his unique combination of size, strength, and playing style. While he may not be Derrick Henry, Sanders has the potential to be an excellent primary running back at the professional level.
Dylan Sampson, Tennessee
The 5-foot-11, 201-pound Dylan Sampson is picking up where Jaylen Wright left off. Sampson has rushed for 357 yards and nine touchdowns already, including four touchdowns against Kent State. Like Wright, Sampson is explosive and can fight through weaker hits.
ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. has Sampson has his ninth back in the 2025 NFL Draft, and loves his big-play ability. I'm with Kiper and will be moving Sampson up my board over guys who can't find the open field or make defenders miss as easily.
Kyle Monangai, Rutgers
Here's what Kiper had to say about Monangai:
Monangai is just really underrated, partially because he is only 5-foot-9 and 209 pounds. But he has rushed for 165 and 208 yards in his two games this season, making him someone to watch the rest of the way.
Short but strong and fast, Monangai doesn't really look like someone who can tote the rock at a high level. But he just produces, showing off great field vision, burst, and pad level. He could be the next Isiah Pacheco as a mid to late-round steal.
