The 2025 NFL draft was unique for a lot of reasons, starting with the Cleveland Browns trading down from the second overall spot with the Jacksonville Jaguars. That trade helped give the Browns a foundation for the future with an extra first-round pick in the 2026 NFL draft to go along with DT Mason Graham and RB Quinshon Judkins being selected with picks acquired in the deal.
With The Ohio State Buckeyes coming off a National Championship, this year’s NFL draft also had two top backs from the same
team, with TreVeyon Henderson joining Judkins as second-round picks. Some even preferred Henderson, selected by the New England Patriots two picks after Judkins, especially as the preseason saw the Browns back not signed and the Patriots back making electric play after electric play.
The regular season has been another story for the Buckeyes’ backs.
Judkins missed the first game of the season after signing his contract late, but has since put up strong numbers, including matching a Cleveland rookie record for touchdowns. In six contests, the Browns back has had 109 rushing attempts for 467 yards and five touchdowns. He’s also caught nine passes for 62 yards.
In comparison, Henderson has had just 43 rushing attempts for 153 yards and one touchdown. He’s caught a few more passes, 16 for 99 yards, but only played in nine snaps in Week 7 despite the Patriots controlling their matchup.
Pats Pulpit noted some concerns for Henderson so far, which could be leading to the limited usage:
After a promising preseason and training camp, the back has managed just 153 yards on 43 carries (3.6 YPA) and ranks near the bottom of the league with -1.3 rushing yards over expected per carry. The game has appeared to be moving quickly for the 22-year old at times.
The good news for Henderson is that the first half of the first season in the NFL does not decide the future. For now, with the Browns and Patriots set to match up in Week 8, it is interesting to note the difference in both usage and success between the two Ohio State backs so far in the NFL.
Are you surprised, either way, by how the two rookie Buckeyes’ backs have looked so far in the NFL? What were your expectations for Judkins and Henderson going into the NFL draft?
Share your thoughts with us in the comment section below
