5 Reasons Braedon Sloan’s Versatility Makes Him The 2025 NFL Draft’s Most Underrated Running Back Prospect

The 2025 NFL Draft class of running backs is deep with top-tier talent like Ashton Jeanty and Omarion Hampton, but a versatile mid-major prospect is quietly building a compelling case for a late-round selection: Braedon Sloan from Ball State University. As of today, December 15, 2025, the senior running back has transitioned from a productive career at Eastern Kentucky to becoming a key offensive weapon in the Mid-American Conference (MAC), catching the eye of scouts looking for a modern, multi-tool back.

Sloan’s draft intrigue centers entirely on his ability to impact the game in multiple phases—rushing, receiving, and potentially on special teams. His resume is highlighted by a strong pass-catching profile, a trait that is becoming increasingly valuable in the NFL. While he may not be a top-10 running back in this class, his potential to be a rotational third-down specialist makes him one of the most intriguing value picks on Day 3 or a priority undrafted free agent (UDFA).

Braedon Sloan: Full Biography and Career Profile

Braedon Sloan’s journey to the 2025 NFL Draft has been defined by consistent production across two different programs, showcasing his adaptability and durable skillset. His profile provides a clear picture of a player who maximized his opportunities at every level.

• The One Where They Tanked Jokes 15 Shocking New Secrets From The Friends Tv Show Behind The Scenes G9zdh

• Full Name: Braedon Sloan
• Position: Running Back (RB)
• Current College: Ball State University (Senior)
• Previous College: Eastern Kentucky University (EKU)
• Hometown: Monticello, Kentucky
• Height: 5'11"
• Weight: 195–205 lbs (Varies by source, often listed up to 205 lbs)
• Key College Stats (Recent Season): Approximately 597 Rushing Yards, 4 Rushing Touchdowns, 329 Receiving Yards, 1 Receiving Touchdown.
• Pre-Season Honors (2024): Preseason All-MAC (Fourth Team by Phil Steele College Preview).
• NFL Draft Eligibility: 2025 NFL Draft

Sloan began his collegiate career at Eastern Kentucky, where he played for three seasons and established himself as a reliable playmaker. His decision to transfer to Ball State for his senior year allowed him to test his skills in the FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision) and gain exposure to NFL scouts in a more competitive conference environment, a critical step for his draft stock.

The Versatility Factor: Why Scouts Love a Dual-Threat RB

In the modern NFL, the pure, between-the-tackles runner is being replaced by the "versatile back"—a player who can stay on the field for all three downs and create mismatches in the passing game. This is where Braedon Sloan shines, making his scouting report particularly appealing to teams looking for depth and scheme flexibility.

1. Exceptional Pass-Catching Ability

Sloan is not just a running back who can catch; he is a proven receiving threat. Recording over 300 receiving yards in a season is a significant marker for a running back prospect, demonstrating soft hands, the ability to run routes, and the vision to turn a check-down into a substantial gain. His comfort in the open field makes him a valuable target on screen passes and wheel routes, which translates directly to the third-down-back role in the NFL. This skill set immediately separates him from many power backs in the 2025 class, such as Kaleb Johnson or Cameron Skattebo, who are primarily known for their rushing prowess.

• The Chilling True Story 5 Key Facts About Richard Evonitz The Serial Killer Who Kidnapped Kara Robinson Chamberlain Xpjje

2. Intriguing Athletic Testing Metrics

While a full NFL Combine invitation may be pending, his recorded Pro Day or Draft Scout metrics paint the picture of an agile and explosive athlete. These numbers suggest the kind of quickness and burst that translates to the NFL level:

• Bench Press (225 lbs): 20 Reps (Excellent for a player of his size, indicating solid upper-body strength for pass protection).
• Vertical Jump: 33 1/2"
• Broad Jump: 9'08"
• 20-Yard Shuttle: 4.31 seconds (A good indicator of lateral quickness and change-of-direction ability).
• 3-Cone Drill: 7.19 seconds (Measures agility and body control, crucial for making cuts and evading defenders).

These agility drills (Shuttle and 3-Cone) are particularly important for a versatile back, as they confirm his ability to make defenders miss in space—a core requirement for an NFL third-down specialist.

The 2025 NFL Draft Projection: UDFA or Late-Round Steal?

Braedon Sloan’s draft stock currently places him in the range of a late-Day 3 pick (Rounds 6-7) or a priority Undrafted Free Agent (UDFA). This projection is common for productive mid-major running backs who lack the elite size or top-end speed of the class's top prospects, like Ashton Jeanty or Omarion Hampton.

• 7 Shocking Things Jessica Capshaw Revealed About Growing Up With Steven Spielberg As Her Stepfather 892ho

3. The Ideal NFL Role: Third-Down Specialist and Rotational Piece

Sloan's primary value to an NFL team will be his immediate utility as a third-down back and a rotational weapon. Teams are always searching for players who can step in immediately to contribute in specific situations. His strength in pass protection (evidenced by his bench press reps) combined with his receiving skills makes him an ideal candidate to protect the quarterback and create a favorable passing situation on third downs. Furthermore, his experience as a kick returner, though not highlighted in all stat lines, provides an additional layer of special teams value, which is often the deciding factor for a player drafted in the final rounds or signed as a UDFA.

4. The Mid-Major Production Hurdle

The biggest challenge for Sloan is the "level of competition" question. While his production at Ball State and Eastern Kentucky was strong, scouts must project how that success will translate against NFL-caliber defensive lines. His rushing metrics have been described as "inconsistent," suggesting he may not possess the power or breakaway speed to be a true bell-cow back at the next level. This perceived weakness is why he is likely to fall behind prospects who have dominated Power Five conferences, but it also creates an opportunity for him to be a sleeper pick.

5. Potential for a Priority UDFA Contract

If Sloan goes undrafted, he is projected to be one of the best undrafted free agents available in the entire 2025 class. A priority UDFA designation means multiple teams will be competing for his signature, offering a larger signing bonus and a clearer path to the 53-man roster. A team like the New England Patriots, known for valuing versatile, hard-working backs, or a team with a strong zone-blocking scheme, could be a perfect fit for his skillset.

In conclusion, Braedon Sloan is a prospect whose value extends beyond traditional rushing statistics. His versatility as a strong pass-catcher, combined with solid athletic testing and a proven ability to produce across multiple collegiate levels, makes him a low-risk, high-reward selection in the later stages of the 2025 NFL Draft. Whichever team selects or signs him will be gaining a tough, multi-dimensional back ready to contribute immediately in a specialized role.