2025 Rookie Big Board

Kevin Coleman gives you his second 2025 Rookie Big Board of the season!

This is my second Big Board of the offseason. I started this column three years ago, and while it’s often duplicated, it can’t be replicated. This Pre-Combine Big Board sets the foundation before testing numbers shake up evaluations, providing an in-depth look at where prospects stand based on film, production, and projected draft capital.

As always, paid subscribers get exclusive access to value picks, dynasty trade targets, trade values, and additional premium content, including rankings, deep-dive analysis, and strategy insights to help you stay ahead in your leagues. Whether you're prepping for rookie drafts, building trade strategies, or looking for the next breakout star, this board will be your guide.

Big Board Takeaways

Round 1

In this round, I’m focusing on two of the top running backs in the class. TreVeyon Henderson has been trending upward since his impressive playoff performance. At TDR, we’ve had him as our RB2 throughout last off-season and into the season. Meanwhile, Omarion Hampton remains among the most underrated backs despite back-to-back 1,500-yard seasons. First up, let’s take a closer look at Henderson.

TreVeyon Henderson, Ohio State

TreVeyon Henderson is a dynamic and well-rounded running back with the skill set to fit into various offensive schemes. His vision, sharp-cut ability, and breakaway speed make him a serious home run threat, while his versatility in pass protection enhances his value as an every-down contributor.

He displays elite bursts to erase pursuit angles at the second level as a runner. He’s reliable in blitz pickup, increasing his chances of staying on the field in passing situations. His quick, efficient footwork allows him to adjust his running lanes seamlessly.

Background & College Career:

Henderson was a highly coveted five-star recruit and a top-ranked prospect in the 2021 class. A former track star, Henderson clocked a 10.94-second 100-meter dash, showcasing the speed that would later define his college career. Henderson made an immediate impact at Ohio State, earning Freshman All-American honors in 2021 after racking up 1,248 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns. Injuries hindered his sophomore and junior campaigns, but he rebounded in 2024, forming a formidable duo with transfer Quinshon Judkins. Playing in Chip Kelly’s diverse rushing attack, Henderson thrived in multiple schemes, proving his adaptability and durability.

NFL Projection:

Henderson possesses the explosiveness and versatility to fit into various offensive schemes. He thrives in zone-based systems that allow him to read blocks and explode through gaps, but he also has the power and vision to excel in gap schemes. His ability to contribute as a pass protector and occasional receiving threat enhances his value in today’s NFL.

Draft Stock & Dynasty Outlook:

Henderson is projected as a second-to-third-round pick in the NFL Draft, but a standout performance at the combine could elevate him into first-round consideration. His pass-blocking prowess has made him a favorite among scouts. If he lands in a system that utilizes a two-back rotation—similar to the Detroit Lions' approach with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery—he could maximize his efficiency while minimizing wear and tear.

For dynasty managers, Henderson remains a top-tier prospect with RB2 potential. A strong combine showing could solidify his standing in this loaded running back class. While he and Omarion Hampton will be vying for that RB2 spot, Henderson has the tools to separate himself with a dominant offseason performance.

Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina

College Production & Background

Omarion Hampton had to wait for his turn in North Carolina’s backfield, but he made it count once he got the opportunity. The explosive rusher posted back-to-back 1,500-yard seasons, leading the ACC in rushing yards both years. In 2023, he topped the conference with 15 rushing touchdowns, and in 2024, he ranked second with the same total. His dominance earned him consecutive First-Team All-ACC honors.

Athletic Profile & Skill Set

Hampton has the prototypical NFL frame at 6’0”, 220 pounds, and pairs his size with elite burst and acceleration. He’s rumored to run in the 4.3 range in the 40-yard dash, and his film supports that claim—his north-south running style makes him a big-play threat. His long strides allow him to cover ground quickly, and he transitions smoothly from lateral to downhill movement. However, while his straight-line speed is impressive, he occasionally gets caught from behind on long runs, raising some endurance concerns.

What stands out most about Hampton is his ability to create yardage despite inconsistent offensive line play. His vision and patience allow him to maximize every carry, and his contact balance makes him a nightmare to bring down. He consistently falls forward for extra yards, showcasing powerful lower-body strength and pad level. His ability to churn through contact, combined with light feet and strong spatial awareness, makes him one of the more well-rounded backs in this class.

Running Style & Scheme Fit

Hampton thrives as a downhill runner with an aggressive, physical approach. He runs with urgency through contact, frequently breaking tackles and gaining tough yards. While he lacks elite lateral agility, he compensates with decisive cuts and strong processing at the line of scrimmage. He’s not a back who dances behind the line—he attacks gaps with authority.

As an outside runner, his linear burst helps him press the edge, but his ability to cut and redirect efficiently is somewhat limited by his mass and stride cadence. He might struggle in schemes that rely heavily on wide zone concepts, but he projects well in duo and inside zone systems that allow him to maintain forward momentum.

Passing Game & Pass Protection

Hampton has room for growth as a receiver, with most of his production coming from checkdowns rather than designed route concepts. While he has natural hands, he wasn’t heavily utilized in North Carolina’s passing game. That could limit his early three-down potential in the NFL, but his ability to absorb contact and fight for extra yards suggests he can develop into a capable receiving option over time.

As a pass blocker, Hampton shows the willingness and physicality needed to be effective, but his technique is inconsistent. He sometimes takes himself out of position by committing too early, and at times, he absorbs contact instead of delivering it. Improving his pass protection skills will be key to unlocking his full three-down potential.

Dynasty Fantasy Football Outlook

From a fantasy perspective, Hampton projects as a high-volume, workhorse-style back. His ability to handle 250+ touches in an NFL season gives him immense value, especially in formats where opportunity is king. If he lands in a favorable situation on Day 2 of the NFL Draft, he could push for RB2 status in this class.

His skill set is reminiscent of a classic bell-cow back—powerful, explosive, and built to handle a heavy workload. While he may not be the most dynamic pass-catcher, his ability to generate yards after contact and sustain drives makes him an intriguing dynasty asset. If he lands in a run-heavy offense, his ceiling could be that of a reliable fantasy RB1.

Round 2

Matthew Golden – WR, Texas Longhorns

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