As the clock ticks down to the 2025 NFL Draft, the New England Patriots find themselves making some intriguing decisions, and one name that’s generating buzz is Ashton Jeanty. Selecting him with the fourth overall pick might raise a few eyebrows, especially with players like Travis Hunter, Abdul Carter, and Will Campbell often highlighted in mock drafts. However, the talk of surprise picks isn’t new to the draft landscape, and Jeanty could just be the fit New England needs.
Let’s dig into why Ashton Jeanty could make a lot of sense for the Patriots, despite the spotlight falling on other potential picks. The key here is the evolution of the Patriots’ offense, particularly with Drake Maye stepping in as the new quarterback. For Maye to succeed, he requires not only time in the pocket provided by an improved offensive line but also a dependable ground game to complement his skills. While most offseason chatter has focused on bolstering the receiving corps, the running back position is a crucial area of need that demands attention.
In 2024, the Patriots posted an impressive 1,969 rushing yards, but their effectiveness in the red zone was notably lacking, with just 11 rushing touchdowns — the sixth-fewest in the league. If the team hopes to cultivate Maye’s development and create a balanced offensive attack, they will need to enhance their running game significantly beyond the contributions of Rhamondre Stevenson last season.
Enter Ashton Jeanty, a running back who brings an elite skill set to the table. After an eye-popping season where he amassed 2,595 yards and 29 touchdowns, Jeanty has proven he’s a true workhorse. His career totals of 4,760 yards and 50 touchdowns over 748 carries speak volumes about his ability and durability. He thrives in contact, showing the type of grit that can change games — something the Patriots could desperately use as they look to redefine their identity.
With Mike Vrabel stepping in as head coach, the importance of a strong rushing attack is expected to be emphasized more than ever. During his tenure with the Tennessee Titans, he had the luxury of a powerhouse back like Derrick Henry, a key asset that often left defenses scrambling. Jeanty could very well be the next piece of the puzzle for the Patriots, bringing that same kind of impact and physical play to the field.
Selecting Jeanty might seem like a bold move, but in today’s NFL, addressing the running back position may be just as vital as securing the star pass-catcher or tweaking the offensive line. If New England believes Jeanty is their guy, it could reshape their offensive strategy and provide the foundational support Drake Maye needs to thrive. Keep an eye on this potential pick — it could very well signal a new chapter in the Patriots’ playbook.
