The deepest position in the 2025 NFL Draft might be running back, with four prospects earning a Day 1 starting grade on my board. One of those players is North Carolina’s Omarion Hampton, who has posted elite production over the past two seasons and is generating significant first-round buzz.
In his final season with the Tarheels, Hampton had the best year of his impressive North Carolina career, rushing for 1,660 yards—the second-highest total in the nation, just behind Ashton Jeanty, who is projected to be the first running back selected. In addition to his dominance on the ground, Hampton proved to be a reliable receiving threat out of the backfield, hauling in 38 passes for 373 yards. Altogether, he accounted for 2,033 all-purpose yards, setting a new North Carolina record.
Hampton’s production has been consistent, making him far from a one-year wonder. In 2023, he earned All-ACC honors after finishing fifth in the FBS in rushing yards (1,504), rushing yards per game (115.7), and yards from scrimmage per game (132.8). Even as a freshman, he flashed his potential by scoring six rushing touchdowns on just 88 carries.
2025 NFL Draft: What makes Omarion Hampton a top running back prospect
As a pro prospect, Hampton’s top asset is his powerful running style. He thrives on contact, frequently lowering his shoulder and running through defenders. This relentless approach helped him force 73 missed tackles this past season, ranking sixth in the FBS, per Pro Football Focus. His elite contact balance allows him to absorb hits without losing momentum, and he consistently keeps his feet moving through tackles, enabling him to fall forward and pick up crucial extra yards.
5 TDs. 253 all-purpose yards.
— ACC Football (@ACCFootball) November 2, 2024
OMARION HAMPTON, EVERYBODY 😳👏
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While Hampton is more of a power runner than a slasher, his speed is underrated. He recorded 26 runs of 15 or more yards this season, ranking fourth in the FBS, according to PFF. Additionally, he ran a solid 4.46-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, confirming his ability to break away in the open field.
Omarion Hampton scouting report at NFL Mocks:
Another valuable aspect of Hampton’s game is his receiving ability. Over the past two seasons, he has tallied 67 receptions while dropping only two passes. His reliability as a pass-catcher makes him a versatile weapon at the next level.
However, there are areas for improvement. Hampton’s biggest weakness is his pass protection, as he sometimes stops his feet and lunges when blocking. Additionally, some teams may be concerned that he is a straight-line runner who lacks elite elusiveness in the open field.
Omarion Hampton’s ideal NFL landing spot
As for his draft stock, Hampton has met with teams such as the Denver Broncos, Chicago Bears, New England Patriots, and Dallas Cowboys. The Broncos could be an ideal landing spot, as they hold the 20th overall pick and recently lost last season’s leading rusher, Javonte Williams, to the Cowboys. Hampton’s physical running style and pass-catching ability would make him a great fit in Sean Payton’s offense.
No matter where he lands, expect Hampton to quickly earn a starting role and establish himself as one of the NFL’s most promising young running backs.