Ashton Jeanty, one of the top rookie RBs this season, was chosen with the 6th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. The 5-foot-10, 230-pound athlete has the combination of a dump truck and an Indy car. Such a potent blend of art and science has enthralled fans and analysts alike. Jeanty’s rare skill set speaks volumes about his elite playmaker potential. Combine those with his elite pass-blocking technique, and he’s easily the bookend ready to make the most immediate impact in the league.
Even with all his great accolades, critics would still point to Jeanty’s performance metrics. His career average is a paltry 3.0 yards after contact per carry. As a result, this figure is well below the league average and should worry anyone interested in his tackle-breaking prowess. Rounding into form, he presented an impressive class-best negative run rate of 11%. As a result, he was almost never knocked back for negative yardage on plays. Furthermore, Jeanty excelled with a 49% rate of runs exceeding five yards, the highest among his peers in the draft class.
Impressive Combine Performance
During that performance at the combine, Jeanty delivered every single time under pressure. His agility and quickness showed in position drills, cementing his status as a versatile defender. Teams loved his versatility to be a factor on all three downs, which bumps up his value even further given the state of the talent-hungry NFL today. Jeanty’s combination of strength and speed positions him well for success in Chip Kelly’s fast-paced offense, where he is likely to be a central figure.
He has elite pass-blocking qualities. This often overlooked but very important skill will prolong his career and keep him pounding the grass. Coaches are increasingly valuing running backs who can protect the quarterback and contribute in various roles, making Jeanty an attractive option for teams looking for a multifaceted player.
Potential Challenges Ahead
Though Jeanty’s raw talents are undeniable, there are major questions to address as he moves from college to the professional level. He checks in at 5-foot-10 and 202 pounds. Many analysts agree that his size will prevent him from being used on that many touches in the NFL. This concern is compounded by the presence of Jerome Ford, another running back who may become a factor in the team’s plans as early as 2025.
Jeanty is only projected for about eight carries this season. He may add an average of 32 yards receiving, but his projected TDs are zero. These numbers may reflect the team’s broader strategy rather than a lack of ability on Jeanty’s part. While he adjusts to the NFL level’s pace and physicality, there is a ton of upside for continued growth as he matures even more.
Looking Ahead
Ashton Jeanty’s upcoming selection as a high draft pick will be the career highlight. His elite playmaking ability and three-down skill set position him to become one of the next elite running backs in the NFL. Expectations are high that he will be able to quickly clear any rookie learning curve and make a major impact on his team’s fortunes.
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