Identifying potential breakout running backs for the 2025 fantasy football season requires analyzing the performance of rookie running backs from recent seasons. Despite 33 rookie RBs appearing in games during the 2024 NFL season, only 14 managed to secure over 30 carries. Historical patterns suggest that those with fewer than 300 rushing yards as rookies seldom thrive in their sophomore seasons, with only a handful, like Chase Brown and AJ Dillon, breaking the mold.

Among the promising sophomore RBs highlighted for the upcoming draft are Ray Davis, Jaylen Wright, and Jerome Ford, each showing glimpses of brilliance in their rookie campaigns. Evaluating their situations and potential usage will be crucial for fantasy managers seeking to capitalize on the next wave of talent.