Nashville, Tennessee – After previously hinting at potential NFL draft scenarios, running back Ashton Jeanty’s projected landing spot appears to be shifting. Originally eyeing the possibility of being picked by the Raiders at No. 6 or the Cowboys at No. 12, new developments have now positioned him as the top bet to join the Jaguars at No. 5. However, this sudden surge in favoritism could prompt other teams to make a move, with speculation arising about a potential trade up to No. 4.
During a recent discussion on the topic, the idea of the Patriots trading down to acquire more picks and potentially selecting Jeanty was floated. While the Patriots currently have Rhamondre Stevenson, the addition of Jeanty could provide a significant boost to their running game. This strategic move could prove beneficial for quarterback Drake Maye, as a strong running game can create more favorable opportunities for the passing game to flourish.
Given the recent success of teams with standout running backs, such as the Lions with David Montgomery and the Titans with Derrick Henry, the value of a dynamic rusher like Jeanty cannot be overlooked. Even with previous examples of teams utilizing multiple running backs in their game plans, the emergence of a standout rusher in today’s NFL landscape has been increasingly recognized as a game-changing asset.
As Jeanty’s draft stock continues to rise, there is a possibility that he could even break into the top five picks, or potentially even the top four. With the draft rapidly approaching, teams are weighing their options and evaluating the potential impact of selecting a player of Jeanty’s caliber. The intrigue surrounding his draft prospects only adds to the excitement and anticipation leading up to the NFL draft.