The Cincinnati Bengals are actively scouting top running back prospects ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft. Notably, they met with Boise State’s standout running back, Ashton Jeanty, during the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine. Jeanty, who led the FBS in both yards from scrimmage and rushing yards in the 2024 season, is widely regarded as the premier running back in this draft class.

 

Jeanty’s 2024 season was nothing short of spectacular. He amassed 2,601 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns, earning him first-team All-Mountain West honors and the conference’s Offensive Player of the Year award. His performance also garnered national recognition, as he was the runner-up for the Heisman Trophy and received accolades such as the Maxwell Award and the Doak Walker Award.

 

During his meeting with the Bengals at the Combine, Jeanty described the interaction as “great,” indicating a positive rapport with the team’s management. In addition to the Bengals, Jeanty has drawn interest from other NFL teams, including the Chicago Bears, Denver Broncos, and Las Vegas Raiders.

 

The Bengals hold the 17th overall pick in the upcoming draft. Given Jeanty’s projected status as a top prospect, there’s speculation about whether the Bengals would select a running back in the first round. Bengals Director of Player Personnel, Duke Tobin, addressed this topic, stating, “We are trying to fill the needs we have in free agency first and the draft comes second. The draft is something that we are not going to pass players because they don’t fit the current need if they are the best player available.”

 

In terms of skill set, Jeanty is lauded for his balance, footwork, vision, and explosiveness. Pro Football Focus ranks him fifth on their big board, drawing comparisons to NFL star Alvin Kamara. They describe Jeanty as “a total-package backfield playmaker” and a “first-round offensive weapon who can succeed behind any blocking scheme.”

 

The Bengals’ interest in Jeanty aligns with their potential need to bolster the running back position. As the draft approaches, their scouting activities, including meetings with top prospects like Jeanty, will be crucial in shaping their draft strategy.