Fantasy Football Today: FFT Dynasty - 2025 NFL Draft Running Back Prospects Part 2!

Release Date: April 8, 2025

In the latest episode of Fantasy Football Today hosted by Heath Cummings, the focus shifts to the 2025 NFL Draft Running Back Prospects, specifically diving into the consensus rankings for RB7 through RB12. Joined by analyst Jacob Gibbs, the duo dissects the strengths, weaknesses, and potential fantasy impacts of each prospect, providing invaluable insights for dynasty fantasy football managers aiming to bolster their rosters.

Introduction to RB7-RB12 Prospects

Heath Cummings opens the episode by highlighting the transition from last week’s discussion on RB1-RB6 to today's focus on the next tier of running backs. He introduces the segment with enthusiasm:

Heath Cummings [00:49]: "Welcome to Fantasy Football Today Dynasty. I am your host, Heath Cummings. I'm joined once again by Jacob Gibbs. This is the rookie running back preview part two and we're going to start immediately with a comment from YouTube."

Jacob Gibbs responds by expressing his excitement for the deeper dive into the running back class:

Jacob Gibbs [01:47]: "Yeah. So Matt Waltman brought up two guys who would be my first two answers for like real life and that's Demi Martinez and Taj Brooks..."

RB7: Devin Neal

Consensus Ranking: RB7
College: Kansas
Height/Weight: 4'6", 240 lbs
Nickname: Rocket Sanders

Heath and Jacob commence their analysis with Devin Neal, discussing his potential as a high-value draft pick depending on his landing spot.

Heath Cummings [09:26]: "We are back and we are starting with the consensus RB7 in the 2025 running back class. It's Devin Neal out of Kansas."

Jacob evaluates Neal's performance and potential:

Jacob Gibbs [10:24]: "He's been very productive. Only Ashton Jinty has more career PPR points from this class... He is a really complete player."

He raises concerns about Neal's physical attributes and ability to excel against NFL defenses:

Jacob Gibbs [10:24]: "I think he's a guy who can contribute on all three downs. In fact, he tied Ashton Jinty for the most avoided tackles throughout a career on receptions... He's a guy who can contribute on all three downs."

Key Points:

• Strengths: Versatility in the passing game, high PPR points accumulation.
• Weaknesses: Physicality concerns, modest burst, and leg drive.
• Fantasy Impact: Potential RB5 in dynasty drafts if landing spot is favorable.

RB8: RJ Harvey

Consensus Ranking: RB8
College: UCF
Nickname: The Hybrid Performer

RJ Harvey stands out as a dynamic and somewhat polarizing prospect. Jacob Gibbs offers a nuanced view, balancing his high upside with notable risks.

Jacob Gibbs [16:02]: "RJ Harvey's strength is his weakness. He's always trying to maximize every situation and make a big run happen... he had one of the highest yards after contact per rush rates on those runs."

Heath probes into how Harvey's inconsistent performance might affect his draft value:

Heath Cummings [19:54]: "Most likely to produce a top 12 fantasy season."

Jacob compares Harvey to established NFL players, emphasizing his playmaking abilities:

Jacob Gibbs [20:20]: "He reminds me of a hybrid of like Bucky Irving and Taije Spears... he could work his way into a very fantasy relevant role."

Key Points:

• Strengths: Elite yards after contact, exceptional pass-catching ability.
• Weaknesses: High stuffed rates leading to negative plays, pass protection concerns.
• Fantasy Impact: High upside as a RB1 if he secures a significant role in the NFL.

RB9: Dylan Sampson

Consensus Ranking: RB10
College: Iowa
Nickname: The Electric Beast

Dylan Sampson is heralded as one of the most exciting prospects, with Jacob Gibbs highlighting his explosive play potential.

Jacob Gibbs [29:15]: "He is, he's exciting. One of just five running backs who averaged above 20 points per game."

He discusses Sampson's pass-blocking prowess and fantasy relevance:

Jacob Gibbs [29:15]: "He was used 118 times as a pass blocker... he can project it."

Sampson is positioned as a top-tier dynasty pick contingent on landing spot and opportunity.

Key Points:

• Strengths: High PPR scoring, elite speed, and pass-blocking duties.
• Weaknesses: Fumbles and ball security issues.
• Fantasy Impact: Potential top 20 dynasty running back with star potential.

RB11: Ollie Gordon

Consensus Ranking: RB11
College: Oklahoma State
Nickname: The Bulldozer

Ollie Gordon's performance is scrutinized, especially his recent struggles due to team dynamics and offensive line issues.

Jacob Gibbs [35:31]: "He runs the way that I imagined Travion Henderson might run before I got into this process... he has a lack of power and leg drive."

Despite his setbacks, Gordon remains a viable option for fantasy managers willing to take a calculated risk.

Jacob Gibbs [38:55]: "He have some rushing metrics that are intriguing and he can contribute as a receiver for sure."

Key Points:

• Strengths: Significant production in 2023, pass-catching ability.
• Weaknesses: Inconsistent performance due to offensive line struggles, questionable vision.
• Fantasy Impact: Round three pick with upside if offensive situation improves.

RB12: DJ Giddens

Consensus Ranking: RB12
College: Kansas State
Nickname: The Versatile Threat

DJ Giddens is evaluated for his comprehensive ability to handle all three downs, making him a valuable asset in dynasty formats.

Jacob Gibbs [41:35]: "He was a starter throughout his career. That's the highest rate in the class."

Heath and Jacob commend Giddens' pass-catching skills and explosiveness:

Heath Cummings [42:49]: "He's got 55 or higher in route rate... He's really electric."

Key Points:

• Strengths: High route rate, exceptional pass-catching, and explosive playmaking.
• Weaknesses: Underutilized in rushing due to system constraints.
• Fantasy Impact: Reliable RB12 with potential to climb if given more rushing opportunities.

Sleeper Picks: Hidden Gems to Watch

Jacob Gibbs introduces several sleeper candidates who could outperform their rankings based on unique skill sets and untapped potential.

1. Raheem Sanders

   • Strengths: Versatility, ability to contribute as a receiver.
   • Fantasy Impact: Valuable late-round pick with breakout potential.

2. Jacori Crosby

   • Strengths: High avoided tackle rate, strong yards after contact.
   • Fantasy Impact: Undervalued prospect poised for a breakout.

3. Kylan James

   • Strengths: Explosive speed, compact running style.
   • Fantasy Impact: Potential to emerge as a key contributor if drafted by the right team.

4. Corey Kiner

   • Strengths: Exceptional contact balance, ability to create yards after contact.
   • Fantasy Impact: A high-upside pick for managers seeking depth and potential starters.

Final Thoughts and Rankings

As the discussion wraps up, Jacob and Heath emphasize the depth of the 2025 RB class, underscoring the importance of landing spots and team fit in determining each player's fantasy value.

Jacob Gibbs [25:55]: "I think I would put Neil ahead of the other two. Unless you are in a position where you are like really looking for something to just provide a, a lightning bolt to your team."

Heath concurs, highlighting how the consensus rankings provide a structured approach but also acknowledging the fluidity based on individual team needs.

Heath Cummings [28:42]: "I think those are more surefire first-round picks. These are guys that are probably round two could fall to round three or could creep up into the 12-turn."

Conclusion

This episode of Fantasy Football Today offers a comprehensive analysis of the 2025 NFL Draft's RB7-RB12 prospects, blending statistical evaluation with qualitative insights. Whether you're targeting a solid RB7 like Devin Neal or eyeing a high-risk, high-reward sleeper like Jacori Crosby, Heath and Jacob provide the tools needed to make informed dynasty draft decisions. The depth and versatility of this RB class promise an exciting season ahead for fantasy managers willing to leverage these insights.

Notable Quotes:

• Heath Cummings [09:26]: "We are back and we are starting with the consensus RB7 in the 2025 running back class. It's Devin Neal out of Kansas."

• Jacob Gibbs [10:24]: "He's a really complete player."

• Jacob Gibbs [16:02]: "RJ Harvey's strength is his weakness. He's always trying to maximize every situation and make a big run happen."

• Heath Cummings [27:22]: "Neil is more likely than the other two to have a starter's workload at some point, but the other two are more exciting than Neil if they get the workload."

Stay tuned for more in-depth analyses and rankings in future episodes of Fantasy Football Today, where Heath Cummings and his expert guests continue to provide the edge you need to dominate your fantasy leagues.