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ESPN makes big statement about Tennessee Vols RB Dylan Sampson's draft stock after the NFL scouting combine

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Zach Ragan | Last updated Mar 3, 2025 12:16 PM ET

Tennessee Vols running back Dylan Sampson didn't run the 40-yard dash at the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis this past weekend (Sampson had a hamstring injury at the end of the 2024 season), but he still managed to improve his draft stock via his on-field workouts.

Sampson, who set the single season Tennessee record for rushing yards (1,391) and rushing touchdowns (22) last season, declared for the 2025 NFL Draft following his junior season with the Vols.

Following the scouting combine, Sampson, according to ESPN's Matt Miller, is viewed as a "solid top-75 value" in the draft.

From ESPN: Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson opted not to run the 40, but his positional drills were enough to warrant a mention. The 5-foot-8, 200-pound Sampson is a compact back with great contact balance, but he also has quick feet and elite body control. That showed up in his ability to navigate over and around bags and how well he was able to cut in the famed "Duce Staley Drill," which highlights a player's foot speed and burst. He has solid top-75 value in this class.

Tennessee’s Dylan Sampson can inject some explosiveness into an offense with his lateral movements and burst.

Sampson had the seventh-most forced missed tackles in the country last season (70). pic.twitter.com/V5UKbwbQ8e
— Bobby Football (@Rob__Paul) February 23, 2025

Sampson has a bright future as an NFL player. The Baton Rouge native showed impressive burst and big-play ability during his three seasons at Tennessee. And just as important, Sampson proved to be an elite leader that's focused on winning football games more than accumulating stats (though he did both with the Vols).

Any NFL team would be fortunate to add Sampson to their locker room. The former Vol should hear his named called by the end of the third round of the draft. There's a chance he could sneak into the second round depending on how early the run on running backs starts.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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