The NFL Draft has come and gone. Several players stand out as strong trade targets based on talent, draft capital, landing spot, and long-term upside. These rookies may not be immediate stars, but their skill sets, and roles make them worthwhile acquisitions. Whether you’re rebuilding or reinforcing a contender, this rookie trade advice can become foundational assets or future trade chips.
Running Backs | Rookie Trade Advice
Ashton Jeanty | Las Vegas Raiders | Age 21
Ashton Jeanty was my pre-draft 1.01—nothing has changed in the analysis post-draft. Jeanty lands in a great landing spot with the Las Vegas Raiders, as there is very little competition for him in touches. Jeanty has shown the ability to handle a heavy workload and should have no problem delivering RB1 production.
Currently, Jeanty is ranked as my dynasty RB3 behind Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs. Regarding Jeanty’s trade value, I would actively be trying to acquire Jeanty. Currently, Jeanty will require an overpayment to obtain him. Trade negotiations should start with a 2026 1st and a premier player in return for Jeanty, such as a low-end WR1 like Nico Collins, Drake London, or Garrett Wilson.
Omarion Hampton | Las Angeles Chargers | Age 22
It was a match made in heaven when the Los Angeles Chargers drafted Omarion Hampton. Under head coach Jim Harbaugh, the Chargers’ offensive strategy emphasizes a strong ground game, aligning well with Hampton’s skill set. Hampton excels as a downhill, power-based running back, which allows him to showcase his explosive lower-body strength.
Unfortunately, Hampton will spend his rookie year splitting time with Najee Harris, who was signed in the offseason. Currently, Hampton is my RB6 sandwiched between Saquon Barkley and Bucky Irving. Regarding trading for Hampton, his average ADP in rookie drafts is 1.02. That carries some heavy trade value, and rebuilding teams should attempt to trade down to 1.04 or 1.05 and add a young wide receiver such as Xavier Worthy or Zay Flowers.
TreVeyon Henderson | New England Patriots | Age 22
As a dual-threat running back, Henderson is expected to play a pivotal role in the Patriots’ offense—contributing significantly in rushing and receiving yards. His adaptability and pass protection skills will be crucial in 3rd Down situations. I anticipate Henderson being utilized rather quickly in the New England offense as the Patriots seem ready to move on from Rhamondre Stevenson.
Regarding trade value for Henderson, he is usually drafted in the 1.04 to 1.06 range. As I stated earlier with Omarion Hampton, this is the range I would look to tier down to while acquiring another asset. If I had a later 2025 1st, I would be packaging that pick along with an older running back as a way to tier up. James Conner, Tony Pollard, and Aaron Jones are good options to package with your pick to trade up into this range.
Quinshon Judkins | Cleveland Browns | Age 21
Before the College Football playoffs, I was not that high on Quinshon Judkins. Judkins played a pivotal role in Ohio State’s National Championship run. At 6’0’’ 221 lbs., Judkins has the perfect running back build. Judkins continued his ascension up my ranks with a very impressive showing at the NFL Combine.
Just like TreVeyon Henderson, Judkins is being drafted between the 1.04 and 1.06 range. Currently, I have Henderson over Judkins in my ranks. If I could not acquire Henderson, Judkins is a nice consolation prize. Just like with Henderson, I would look to tier up from James Conner, Tony Pollard, Aaron Jones, or even Alvin Kamara to acquire Judkins.
RJ Harvey | Denver Broncos| Age 24
Many draft analysts expected the Denver Broncos to take a running back early in the draft. However, no one seemed to expect Denver would select RJ Harvey in the 2nd round of the NFL Draft. Nonetheless, Harvey is now being taken at the end of the 1st round, early-2nd round of rookie drafts.
I would rather trade down for Kaleb Johnson or Cam Skattebo and acquire additional assets. I’d also be willing to trade back once Emeka Egbuka and both elite tight ends are off the board, as far back as 2.04. In Harvey’s predraft process, I had concerns about his fumbling issues and being a liability in pass protection. Head Coach Sean Payton has a short leash for running backs with fumbling issues.
Get More Rookie Trade Advice!
Rookie wide receiver trade advice is on its way. Check back soon for the top WRs to target and which ones you should look to trade away. In the meantime, browse our Rookie Draft App and find out all the best targets for each round of your rookie drafts this offseason.
