“SEC Football 2025: Ranking Top Running Backs Like Quintrevion Wisner and Jaydn Ott in the Nation’s Toughest Conference”
The SEC has long been the gold standard for elite running back play, and the 2025 season is no exception. With a mix of established stars and emerging talents, the conference boasts a deep and dynamic group of ball carriers ready to dominate. Among them, Texas A&M’s Quintrevion Wisner and California transfer Jaydn Ott (now at an SEC school) stand out as potential game-changers. But how do they stack up against the rest of the SEC’s loaded backfield? Here’s a comprehensive ranking of the top running backs in the SEC for the 2025 season.
Quintrevion Wisner enters 2025 as the most complete back in the SEC. A former five-star recruit, Wisner combines explosive speed, elite vision, and underrated power. In 2024, he rushed for over 1,200 yards despite splitting carries, showcasing his ability to break big plays and grind out tough yards. His receiving skills make him a nightmare matchup in Mike Elko’s offense, and with an improved offensive line, Wisner could be a Heisman dark horse.
After a dominant career at Cal, Jaydn Ott brings his talents to the SEC, where he’ll immediately contend for the rushing title. Ott is a home-run hitter with breakaway speed and exceptional contact balance. His ability to turn small creases into long touchdowns makes him one of the most dangerous backs in the nation. The biggest question is how he adjusts to SEC defenses, but if his Pac-12 production (1,500+ yards in 2024) is any indication, he’ll thrive.
Another Texas A&M standout, Rueben Owens, gives the Aggies the best one-two punch in the SEC. Owens is a shifty, elusive runner with the acceleration to hit the second level in a flash. While Wisner is the power back, Owens is the lightning, capable of turning any touch into a highlight. If he improves his pass protection, he could see even more touches in 2025.
Branson Robinson has patiently waited his turn behind stacked Georgia backfields, but 2025 is his year to shine. A bruising, physical runner, Robinson wears down defenses with his relentless running style. He may not have the top-end speed of some others on this list, but his ability to move the chains and dominate in short-yardage situations makes him invaluable for the Bulldogs.
The former Florida Gator now suits up for Georgia, adding another explosive weapon to their backfield. Etienne is a versatile back with excellent receiving skills and the quickness to make defenders miss in space. While he may not be the between-the-tackles workhorse Robinson is, his big-play ability ensures he’ll be a major factor in Georgia’s offense.
Justice Haynes has all the tools to be Alabama’s next great running back. A balanced runner with great vision and burst, Haynes should see an expanded role in 2025. His ability to contribute in the passing game makes him a perfect fit for Kalen DeBoer’s offense, and if he stays healthy, he could easily climb this list by season’s end.
Dylan Sampson is one of the most underrated backs in the SEC. A speedster with excellent agility, Sampson thrives in Josh Heupel’s up-tempo offense. He’s a threat to score every time he touches the ball, and with more consistent carries, he could put up monster numbers in 2025.
Jarquez Hunter has been a steady force for Auburn, and with another year of development, he could break out in a big way. He’s a well-rounded back who can run inside, bounce outside, and catch passes out of the backfield. If Auburn’s offensive line improves, Hunter could surpass 1,000 yards.
Seth Davis is a rising star in the SEC, showcasing impressive burst and elusiveness as a freshman. With more experience, he could develop into South Carolina’s go-to offensive weapon. His ability to make defenders miss in tight spaces makes him a nightmare in the open field.
Kedrick Reescano has the potential to be a breakout player in Lane Kiffin’s high-powered offense. A former highly touted recruit, Reescano has the size, speed, and receiving ability to thrive in Ole Miss’ system. If he earns a larger role, he could be one of the SEC’s biggest surprises.
The SEC’s 2025 running back group is as deep and talented as ever, with Quintrevion Wisner and Jaydn Ott leading the charge. Whether it’s power, speed, or versatility, these backs bring everything needed to dominate in college football’s toughest conference. As the season unfolds, expect these rankings to shift, but one thing is certain: the SEC will once again be the home of the nation’s best running backs.
