It’s no secret that next spring is expected to showcase a historically deep NFL Draft class of talent at the running back spot. From all corners of the country, different conferences, and all types of shapes and sizes, it’s expected to be one of the deepest in a long, long time.
Included in that group is Ohio State's duo of TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins. Both players are household names thanks to their explosive talent. Henderson's blend of power and speed, along with Judkins' bruising yet nimble running style are expected to be prioritized early in April. However, what sets the two apart in a loaded class isn't just their natural ability to create with the ball in their hands, it's a dedication and attention to the finer aspects of the game that makes them such interesting case studies.
For running backs, the flashy, highlight-reel plays—breaking tackles and trips to the end zone—are often what catches the public eye. However, durability, versatility, and attention to detail are what separate good backs from great ones, and the Buckeyes’ tandem both have traits of the latter.
In an era where pass protection and offensive architecture have become increasingly complex, running backs who excel at the "little things" are worth their weight in gold. For Henderson and Judkins, the little things are significant. Whether it’s picking up a blitz to protect quarterback Will Howard or blocking downfield to spring each other for additional yards, it’s a team-first mentality that showcases a pair of athletes that will make an impact far beyond the ground game at the next level.
TreVeyon Henderson
Henderson’s reputation as a premier prospect begins with his raw speed and vision. But beneath that electric exterior lies a player committed to the unglamorous aspects of the game. A guy who, simply, isn’t afraid to stick his face in the mud.
At 5-foot-10 and 215 pounds, Henderson may not have the same imposing frame as some other backs in the country, but his willingness to engage with downhill defenders allows him to be an effective blocker as seen above in pass pro, and below in the ground game against Penn State in Week 10.
Quinshon Judkins
Judkins, behind a similar build to that of Henderson, is the thunder to Henderson’s lightning. Like his teammate, Judkins is far more than just a punishing runner. His tenacity in pass pro and his willingness to block for Henderson in dual-back sets have made him indispensable to Ohio State’s offense. Blocking is all about want and effort, regardless of technique and size, and Judkins’ knack for wanting to compete in that facet has moved the needle in conversations with scouts.
He thrives on contact, often neutralizing blitzing linebackers and even chipping defensive linemen when necessary. His physicality not only disrupts opponents but also sets a tone for the offense as a whole.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Henderson and Judkins’ partnership is how each elevates the other’s game. Both players are natural alphas who could easily thrive as solo backs—and have—yet they’ve embraced a symbiotic relationship. This dynamic also extends to their blocking. In many cases, Judkins serves as the lead blocker on outside looks designed for Henderson, clearing a path with his physicality. Conversely, Henderson’s speed forces defenses to respect the edge, opening lanes for Judkins to power through the middle. It’s Ohio State’s version of Pony Personnel (two RBs) and one that can take over a football game when clicking.
For Henderson and Judkins, their ability to excel at the little things gives them an edge as teams begin to parallel prospects and finalize boards. Moreover, their attention to detail signals a high level of coachability and continued evolution of a skill set. Teams value players who not only excel athletically but are also willing to learn and do the dirty work away from their headlining traits as prospects.
In a class brimming with talent, Henderson and Judkins prove that greatness can lie in doing the little things exceptionally well. It’s an apparent commitment to the less glamorous aspects of the game that elevates them into the realm of elite talents for 2025, where both will be defined not only by their production over the years but by the subtleties of their craft.
