Dylan Sampson, the standout running back for the University of Tennessee, has officially declared for the 2025 NFL Draft…

Tennessee Star Running Back Dylan Sampson Declares for the 2025 NFL Draft

 

Dylan Sampson, the standout running back for the University of Tennessee, has officially declared for the 2025 NFL Draft. The announcement comes as no surprise to fans and analysts who have watched Sampson’s impressive rise in college football over the past few seasons. Known for his explosive speed, sharp vision, and ability to change games with a single play, Sampson has firmly positioned himself as one of the most dynamic running backs in the country.

### A Stellar Career at Tennessee

Sampson’s college career at Tennessee has been marked by consistent improvement and thrilling performances. In his freshman season, Sampson was a key contributor in Tennessee’s high-octane offense. While the Volunteers’ passing game often took center stage, Sampson made his mark as a versatile back who could break through defensive lines with ease, averaging nearly 6.5 yards per carry. His vision and footwork allowed him to find gaps in opposing defenses, making him a constant threat both as a rusher and a receiving option out of the backfield.

Over the following seasons, Sampson continued to build on that foundation, evolving into one of the premier backs in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). In 2024, Sampson broke several personal and school records, including rushing yards and touchdowns in a single season, while helping Tennessee to a strong finish in the SEC standings. His quick acceleration and home-run hitting ability allowed him to make significant contributions in both short-yardage situations and long, game-changing runs.

### Skill Set and NFL Potential

What has set Sampson apart from many of his peers is his combination of speed, agility, and vision. He has clocked sub-4.4-second 40-yard dash times, making him one of the fastest running backs available in the upcoming draft. His elusiveness in open space, coupled with his ability to shed tackles, has caught the attention of scouts around the league.

Sampson’s hands and ability to catch passes out of the backfield have also been impressive. As offenses in the NFL continue to evolve and prioritize versatile players who can contribute in multiple facets of the game, Sampson’s ability to line up both as a traditional running back and as a pass-catcher only adds to his appeal. His pass protection skills are still developing, but his potential as a dual-threat back has been well noted.

### What’s Next for Sampson?

By declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft, Sampson has signaled his readiness for the next step in his football career. With Tennessee on the verge of transitioning to a more pro-style offense, Sampson’s decision also indicates his confidence in being able to translate his college success to the professional level.

As the draft approaches, Sampson is likely to be one of the top running back prospects available, with many teams looking for an explosive, multi-dimensional player to add to their backfield. His combination of speed, agility, and big-play potential will undoubtedly make him a coveted asset for NFL teams looking to bolster their offensive units.

While Sampson’s departure will certainly leave a hole in Tennessee’s backfield, it also represents a major opportunity for other players to step up and fill the void. His legacy at Tennessee will be remembered as one of the brightest in recent years, and his future in the NFL looks equally promising.