The Houston Texans need a stable running mate to pair with Pro Bowler Joe Mixon for the long haul down off NRG Drive.
Houston has also targeted an Ohio State player in back-to-back drafts, so adding Quinshon Judkins might be in play for Nick Caserio on Day 2 of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Judkins, who scored three touchdowns in the national championship, told ESPN on Friday that he will enter the 2025 NFL draft rather than use his final season of collegiate eligibility.
The former Ole Miss-turned-Ohio State star totaled three 1,000-yard campaigns and rushed for 50 touchdowns in two years.
“My time here at Ohio State was like no other,” Judkins told ESPN Pete Thamel. “It was like no other place I’ve ever been. I enjoyed my time here so much. I’m ready to take the next step in my journey and prove I’m best running back in the draft class.”
Ohio State star running back Quinshon Judkins is leaving school early and will declare for the NFL draft, he told ESPN.
His ranks as the No. 5 overall running back in the upcoming draft in Mel Kiper Jr.’s position rankings. pic.twitter.com/MuhQlh5k1t— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) January 24, 2025
A two-time first-team All-SEC runner at Ole Miss, Judkins transferred to Ohio State this past offseason to split carries with TreVeyon Henderson. Once again, he led the team in rushing yards (1,060) and rushing touchdowns (14) in less than 200 carries.
In Monday’s national title game, Judikins finished with 100 rushing yards on 11 carries 21 receiving yards on two receptions and three total touchdowns.
While most fans will remember his run through the postseason, Judkins made headlines as a freshman when he broke Ole Miss’ single-season rushing record with 1,567 yards
He also led the SEC in rushing attempts (274) and touchdowns (17) while finishing with 1,699 scrimmage yards.
Quinshon Judkins #Buckeyes
– IDs the blitzing DB thru B gap at exchange point
– Efficient opening of hips to avoid penetrating DB.
– Turns loss of 4-5 into gain of 4. #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/8lOehFpmcI— Matt Waldman (@MattWaldman) January 24, 2025
Judkins, an expected third-round pick, has already proven to be a capable No. 2 running back on paper who can take over games. Houston needs that consistency behind Mixon, who turns 30 next season and already has missed several games each season over the past few years.
The Texans own six picks in the upcoming NFL draft.