The Detroit Lions made a bold choice by drafting running back Jahmyr Gibbs with the 12th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, a move that has paid off handsomely. Gibbs, who the New York Jets had targeted for their 15th pick, has excelled in his first two seasons, earning Pro Bowl honors and leading the league in rushing touchdowns in 2024. His impressive 1,412 rushing yards in 2024 ranks him among the top performers in Lions history, only behind legends like Billy Sims and Barry Sanders.

The Jets, on the other hand, selected defensive end Will McDonald, who has also proven to be a valuable asset with a team-leading 10.5 sacks in 2024. This draft decision now serves as a crucial talking point among analysts as both teams assess their respective paths forward.

The Detroit Lions have meticulously crafted their roster during the offseason, aiming to build a more competitive team for the upcoming 2025 season after a disappointing 2024 campaign. With the recent NFL Draft concluded, the Lions' depth chart is taking shape, showcasing a mix of veterans and promising rookies poised for significant roles.

At quarterback, Jared Goff remains the starter, supported by Hendon Hooker and Kyle Allen, indicating a stable position. The running back room features Jahmyr Gibbs as the primary option, backed by David Montgomery, suggesting a strong ground game. The receiving corps, led by Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, offers explosive potential, especially with new additions like Tim Patrick. The tight end position sees Sam LaPorta as the starter, adding depth to the offensive line that includes Penei Sewell and Frank Ragnow, forming a formidable front.

On defense, Aidan Hutchinson headlines a fierce line, supported by Alim McNeill and DJ Reader. The linebacker corps, featuring Jack Campbell and Alex Anzalone, aims to improve upon last season's performance. The secondary showcases D.J. Reed and Terrion Arnold at cornerback, while the safety duo of Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch provides solid coverage. Special teams are rounded out by kicker Jake Bates and punter Jack Fox, ensuring a well-rounded approach to the game.

The Dallas Cowboys addressed their backfield need by drafting running back Jaydon Blue in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. With the loss of Rico Dowdle to free agency, the Cowboys were expected to prioritize a running back earlier in the draft, especially after Ashton Jeanty was taken by the Raiders at pick No. 6. They opted for Alabama guard Tyler Booker at No. 12, a decision that garnered mixed reactions from fans, particularly linebacker Micah Parsons who had hoped for a skill position player like Tetairoa McMillan, picked by Carolina at No. 8.

Blue is not projected to be a workhorse back, as he averaged less than 15 carries per game during his college career, sharing duties with Quintrevion Wisner at Texas. The Cowboys’ rushing leader last season, Dowdle, posted over 1,000 rushing yards, making the expectation for Blue's immediate impact modest. However, his blazing speed, clocked at 4.38 seconds in the 40-yard dash, offers potential for a valuable complement to the existing backfield that includes veterans Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders.

Cam Skattebo, the standout running back from Arizona State, is making waves as he joins the New York Giants after being selected in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. With a 40-yard dash time of 4.66, his speed may not be elite, but his playing style speaks volumes about his potential impact. Known for his balance and physicality, Skattebo's ability to finish plays positions him as an intriguing asset in a running back committee with Tyrone Tracy.

Skattebo's unique skill set has drawn comparisons to David Montgomery of the Detroit Lions. The Giants envision a dynamic backfield pairing similar to how the Lions utilize Montgomery alongside Jahmyr Gibbs. With such a strong self-confidence, Skattebo believes he can prove skeptics wrong and become a game-changer for the Giants, thereby enhancing fantasy football prospects for both himself and his teammates.

Ashton Jeanty, recently picked by the Las Vegas Raiders as the sixth overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, is already drawing comparisons to some of the NFL's elite running backs, particularly Jahmyr Gibbs of the Lions. Jeanty, who had an impressive collegiate career, showcased his versatility at Boise State, blending power and agility to create offensive havoc.

Jeanty stands at 5-foot-9, weighing 15-20 pounds more than Gibbs. His physique lends itself to a playing style reminiscent of Marshawn Lynch, capable of breaking tackles and sprinting for long gains. Notably, Jeanty is the highest-drafted running back from a non-power conference since LaDainian Tomlinson, which adds to the expectations surrounding his performance in the NFL.