2025 NFL Draft Preview: 5 Running Backs Who Could Spark the Lions’ Ground Game
The Detroit Lions are in an intriguing position entering the 2025 NFL Draft. A team once marred by mediocrity has blossomed into a legitimate contender under head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes. Their physical identity on both sides of the ball has galvanized the city, and after falling just short in recent playoff runs, Detroit enters the offseason looking to patch a few holes and gear up for another deep push.
One position that doesn’t scream urgent need—but could quietly become a focal point—is running back.
Yes, the Lions boast a formidable duo in Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery. Gibbs offers the flash, explosion, and versatility to stress defenses horizontally and vertically, while Montgomery brings the punishing, downhill element that allows Detroit to grind out tough yards. But Montgomery will be 28 next season, and his contract structure makes him a potential cap casualty in 2026. Meanwhile, Gibbs—though spectacular—has dealt with minor injuries in each of his two seasons, and the coaching staff may want to manage his workload.
So while running back isn’t a first-round priority, don’t be surprised if the Lions use one of their mid-round picks to secure the future of their backfield. Think of it as finding a potential RB3 now who could be your RB2 or even RB1 in a year or two—especially if injuries strike or the offense evolves further.
With that in mind, here are five running backs in the 2025 NFL Draft class who could be on Detroit’s radar.
The first name to keep a close eye on is Quinshon Judkins, who transferred to Ohio State from Ole Miss and has the potential to be one of the most complete backs in the draft. Judkins has already proven himself in the SEC, racking up over 2,700 rushing yards in his first two seasons. He’s built low to the ground, with tremendous balance and vision, but what makes him special is his patience. At 5-foot-11 and 210 pounds, Judkins has the size to absorb contact but the footwork to navigate tight creases. He’s not a burner, but his ability to fall forward and keep drives alive would be enticing for a team like the Lions that values physical football. If he can show pass-catching chops at Ohio State, he’ll skyrocket up draft boards—and Detroit could swoop in if he slips into Day 2.
Next up is Trevor Etienne out of Georgia, a name that should sound familiar to fans who follow NFL bloodlines. The younger brother of Jaguars running back Travis Etienne, Trevor brings similar traits: speed, vision, and the ability to hit a second gear once he sees daylight. He transferred from Florida and will now operate in a more pro-style offense, which should help his development. At 5-foot-9 and 205 pounds, Etienne is compact and built to handle a rotational role early in his career. The Lions could view him as a Gibbs insurance policy or a future change-of-pace threat with return upside. He’d thrive behind Detroit’s powerful offensive line, especially on outside zone runs where he can pick his lane and burst.
If the Lions want a bigger back to eventually replace Montgomery’s role, they should consider Penn State’s Kaytron Allen. Nicknamed “Fatman” for his powerful running style, Allen is a physical back who excels between the tackles. While teammate Nicholas Singleton often gets more national attention due to his big-play ability, Allen has arguably been the more consistent runner over the past two seasons. He’s built like a bowling ball at 5-foot-11 and 220 pounds, with the ability to wear down defenses. Think of Allen as the kind of back who could thrive in cold-weather playoff games—a grinder who helps you control the clock and set the tone. Detroit’s staff would love his demeanor and effort, and while he might not be flashy, he’s the type of player who could carve out a ten-year career as a dependable contributor.
Looking for a sleeper? Keep your eyes on Rasheen Ali from Marshall. While he’s not a household name, Ali has consistently produced at the Group of Five level and has the kind of all-around game that translates well to the pros. He posted multiple 1,000-yard seasons despite facing loaded boxes and has enough shiftiness and burst to make defenders miss in space. At 6-foot and 206 pounds, Ali’s frame is ideal, and he’s an underrated pass-catcher with soft hands and an understanding of blitz pickup. Detroit values versatility in its backs, and Ali’s ability to play all three downs would make him a strong Day 3 value pick. He may not command headlines, but he could be one of those backs who sticks around in the league and becomes a fan favorite thanks to his work ethic and production.
Finally, we come to Damien Martinez, the Oregon State star who’s now at Miami. Martinez has a thick lower half and a punishing running style that makes tacklers bounce off him. At 6-foot and around 230 pounds, he’s built like a tank but moves with surprising agility. In many ways, Martinez is the kind of back who could replace Montgomery’s role in the offense as a short-yardage and red zone specialist. But he’s more than just a power back—he showed improved vision and patience last year and will get a chance to shine in the ACC. For Detroit, Martinez could be the kind of late third-round or early fourth-round pick who ends up being a long-term contributor. He brings attitude and swagger to the position—two traits that match the Lions’ current locker room culture perfectly.
The best part about this class? The Lions don’t need to force anything. They have the luxury of drafting a running back purely for value, not need. With other teams likely to prioritize quarterbacks, tackles, and wide receivers, several quality backs may fall farther than expected. Detroit can take advantage of that slide to grab someone who not only fits the system but also aligns with the team’s personality—tough, relentless, and team-first.
There’s also the benefit of preparing for potential injuries. While Gibbs is dynamic, his style of play inherently invites contact, and the staff may want to avoid putting too much on his shoulders during the regular season. Having a talented young back who can rotate in without a drop-off would be a huge win for the team. It also opens up creative possibilities—imagine two-back sets with Gibbs and someone like Etienne or Judkins. It would give defensive coordinators headaches trying to match up with speed and power all over the field.
And let’s not forget about special teams. A young running back with return capabilities could earn an active roster spot early on and work his way into the offense over time. Several of the names listed—especially Etienne and Ali—have shown potential in the return game, adding another layer of value that Holmes and Campbell are sure to appreciate.
Overall, the 2025 NFL Draft presents an opportunity for the Lions to be smart, strategic, and forward-thinking when it comes to the running back position. They don’t need a star, but they do need someone who can grow into a role and help keep the engine running. Depth, youth, and affordability matter in a league built on attrition—and grabbing one of these five backs would allow Detroit to strengthen its backfield while preparing for whatever the next chapter may hold.
In a year where the Lions hope to take the final step toward a Super Bowl, the backfield could quietly be a key piece of the puzzle. Don’t be surprised if Brad Holmes pulls the trigger on a running back sooner than expected. After all, the foundation is already in place. Now it’s about building smart around it—and that starts with finding the right pieces, even in places few are looking.
