Ohio State Buckeyes star running back Quinshon Judkins visits the Cincinnati Bengals ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft.

In the high-stakes world of professional football, the pre-draft process is often as critical as the draft itself. Teams meticulously evaluate prospects, searching for the perfect player who can elevate their roster. This week, the Cincinnati Bengals welcomed a major name through their doors: Quinshon Judkins, the dynamic Ohio State running back who has taken college football by storm. His visit to the Bengals’ facility is the latest step in a journey that began years ago and could very well culminate in him donning the black and orange at Paycor Stadium this fall.

A Rising Star with Southern Roots

Judkins, originally from Pike Road, Alabama, burst onto the college football scene at Ole Miss before transferring to Ohio State in 2024. In his freshman season at Ole Miss, he rushed for over 1,500 yards and scored 16 touchdowns, quickly earning SEC Freshman of the Year honors. His combination of vision, power, and explosiveness made him a nightmare for defenders and a dream for offensive coordinators.

But Judkins wasn’t just satisfied with regional success. After two productive seasons in Oxford, he made the leap to Ohio State—a program known for producing NFL-ready talent—hoping to compete for a national championship and further raise his draft stock. The move paid off.

One Season, One Championship, One Statement

In 2024, Judkins thrived under head coach Ryan Day and offensive coordinator Brian Hartline. Despite sharing touches with fellow standout TreVeyon Henderson, Judkins managed to rack up over 1,200 yards on the ground with 14 touchdowns. More importantly, his physical style helped the Buckeyes control games down the stretch, culminating in a College Football Playoff National Championship victory over Michigan—poetic justice for a team that had suffered consecutive losses to their bitter rivals in previous years.

Judkins’ impact extended beyond the stat sheet. He became a leader in the locker room, a steadying presence in big moments, and a player opponents schemed to stop. His success in the Big Ten proved he could dominate in any conference and against any competition.

Bengals’ Backfield Situation

Cincinnati’s interest in Judkins comes at a time when their backfield could use a fresh injection of talent. Joe Mixon was traded to the Texans in the offseason, and while Chase Brown showed flashes of potential in 2024, the Bengals are clearly keeping their options open.

The franchise holds the 17th, 49th, and 81st picks in the 2025 NFL Draft. While running backs are rarely drafted in the first round in today’s pass-heavy NFL, Judkins’ stock places him firmly in the Day 2 conversation. The Bengals’ 49th pick aligns perfectly with where many analysts expect Judkins to be taken, making this visit more than just a courtesy—it’s a serious evaluation of a potential foundational player.

A Scheme Fit?

Bengals head coach Zac Taylor and offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher have built an offense around Joe Burrow’s elite passing ability, but the lack of a consistent run game has hurt them in recent seasons. Adding a back like Judkins, who can wear down defenses and thrive in both inside and outside zone schemes, would bring balance to the Bengals’ offense.

Judkins’ experience in Ohio State’s pro-style system also makes his transition to the NFL smoother. He has shown capable hands in the passing game, reliable pass protection skills, and the durability required for a featured back role. His vision and patience behind the line of scrimmage are reminiscent of some of the league’s top backs, drawing comparisons to players like Nick Chubb and Josh Jacobs.

Pre-Draft Buzz and Other Visits

Judkins’ visit to Cincinnati is part of a busy pre-draft itinerary. He has also met with the Houston Texans and Denver Broncos—both teams with a need at the position. However, none may offer the combination of opportunity and familiarity that the Bengals can. Playing in the same state where he cemented his legacy as a Buckeye adds a layer of narrative appeal that teams and fans alike gravitate toward.

Ohio State players have historically found success with the Bengals—names like Sam Hubbard and Vonn Bell come to mind. The comfort level that Judkins could bring, already being familiar with the region, fanbase, and media attention, gives him an edge over other candidates. This isn’t just a “fit on paper” scenario—it makes sense on and off the field.

What the Analysts Are Saying

NFL Draft experts have been bullish on Judkins throughout the process. Daniel Jeremiah of NFL Network has described him as “a back who runs angry but with control,” while ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. recently moved him into his Top 5 running backs for the 2025 class. Kiper noted that Judkins’ performance against Michigan, in which he rushed for 134 yards and two touchdowns, was a “draft board shifter.”

PlayerProfiler.com has labeled Judkins a “premium Day 2 target with Day 1 impact potential,” citing his acceleration through the hole and elite contact balance as traits that will translate well to the next level.

Judkins’ Own Words

While Judkins has kept a low profile during the draft process, he did speak briefly after his pro day in Columbus: “I’ve worked my whole life for this moment. Doesn’t matter who calls my name—I’m going to give them everything I’ve got.” That mindset, coupled with his track record of production and resilience, speaks volumes to the kind of teammate and worker NFL franchises want in their locker room.

Could He Wear Stripes?

It’s too early to predict the Bengals’ exact draft strategy, but all signs suggest Judkins is very much in play. With Burrow under center, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins on the outside (at least for now), and an improving offensive line, adding a physical, dependable back like Judkins could make Cincinnati’s offense one of the most balanced in the league.

The AFC North is known for cold-weather, ground-and-pound football—especially late in the season. Games are often decided in the trenches, and having a workhorse like Judkins who can move the chains and ice games could be the missing piece for a Bengals team still hungry for a Super Bowl.

Final Thoughts

Quinshon Judkins is the kind of player who doesn’t just show up—he shows out. His visit to the Cincinnati Bengals should not be overlooked. It’s the meeting of a franchise looking for a spark in the backfield and a prospect with the drive, resume, and talent to deliver.

Whether Cincinnati pulls the trigger on Judkins come April remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Quinshon Judkins is NFL-ready, and the Bengals are clearly paying attention.