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Ashton Jeanty Didn't Hesitate to Name Favorite Current NFL RB: Exclusive

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Austin C. Boyd | Last updated May 28, 2025 3:03 PM ET

Ashton Jeanty is one of the most hyped running backs to come into the NFL in recent years. He was the highest drafted running back since Saquon Barkley was the No. 2 pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.

If Jeanty has a career similar to Barkley's, the Las Vegas Raiders won't regret using the No. 6 pick to get him. Interestingly enough, Jeanty is a big fan of the Philadelphia Eagles running back.

"I'd say Saquon (Barkley)," Jeanty told Athlon Sports when asked who his favorite active NFL running back is.

After rushing for 2,005 yards in 2024, Barkley is an easy answer for favorite current running back, but Jeanty's been following him since college.

"I've always watched him, even when he was Penn State," Jeanty added. "He's just explosive at his size. To be as explosive and shifty as he is is pretty rare."

Barkley isn't a bad player for Jeanty to look up to. Though some of the earlier years of his career were derailed due to injury, he's been one of the best running backs in the NFL when he's been healthy.

Barkley was also the last running back to win Offensive Rookie of the Year, which could be something Jeanty is hoping to change. If he hits his statistical goals for his rookie season, it's hard to imagine anybody will beat him out for Offensive Rookie of the Year.

"I'm hoping for 1,500 rushing [yards], and we'll say like 10–20 touchdowns," Jeanty told CBS Sports' Jordan Giorgio.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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