Eric Boggs
Quinshon Judkins, Ohio State’s standout running back, announced on Friday his decision to forgo his final year of collegiate eligibility and declare for the 2025 NFL Draft. Speaking to ESPN, Judkins expressed gratitude for his time in Columbus, stating, “My time here at Ohio State was like no other. I enjoyed my time here so much. I’m ready to take the next step in my journey and prove I’m the best running back in the draft class.”
Judkins, who transferred to Ohio State from Ole Miss for his junior season, made an immediate impact in the Buckeyes’ offense. Sharing the backfield with TreVeyon Henderson, Judkins led the team with 1,060 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns on 194 carries. He also contributed as a receiver, adding 22 catches for 161 yards and two scores. His stellar season culminated in a dominant performance in the national championship game, where he rushed for 100 yards and two touchdowns on just 11 carries, while also catching two passes for 21 yards and another touchdown.
The departure of Judkins, a projected early-round draft pick, leaves Ohio State without its top two running backs as Henderson is also headed to the NFL. This creates a significant transition for the Buckeyes’ backfield. James Peoples, the only returning scholarship running back, will be joined by West Virginia transfer CJ Donaldson Jr. and incoming freshmen Bo Jackson, Anthony “Turbo” Rogers, and Isaiah West to compete for carries in 2025.
On the defensive side, linebacker Sonny Styles delivered a different decision, opting to return for his senior season. Styles, who transitioned to linebacker after beginning his Ohio State career at safety, emerged as a critical leader for the Buckeyes in 2024. Starting all 16 games, he recorded 100 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, six sacks, five pass breakups, and a forced fumble. Styles shined in the postseason, compiling 24 tackles, four tackles for loss, two sacks, a forced fumble, and two impactful pass breakups during the College Football Playoff.
Styles’ return is a major boost for Ohio State’s 2025 defense, which is set to lose at least eight starters. He will anchor the defense alongside Caleb Downs and could have the chance to play alongside his older brother, Lorenzo Styles Jr., who is expected to take over as the Buckeyes’ top nickel cornerback.
Judkins and Styles were among three Ohio State juniors weighing NFL draft decisions. While Judkins has declared, Styles will stay, and cornerback Davison Igbinosun has yet to announce his decision. Friday marked the deadline for players to declare for the draft.
