Should You Draft Quinshon Judkins? Weighing The Risks And Rewards

Shawn

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Post on Sep 04, 2025

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Should You Draft Quinshon Judkins? Weighing the Risks and Rewards

The 2023 NFL Draft is over, but fantasy football drafts are just around the corner. One name generating significant buzz among fantasy football enthusiasts is Quinshon Judkins, the electrifying running back from Ole Miss. But is he a worthy draft pick? This article delves into the potential rewards and inherent risks associated with selecting Judkins in your upcoming fantasy drafts.

The Case for Quinshon Judkins:

Judkins's rookie season was nothing short of spectacular. He showcased impressive power, agility, and a knack for finding the endzone, finishing with an astounding 1,567 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns. This production, especially considering his relatively young age and the level of competition he faced in the SEC, has many fantasy analysts predicting a bright future.

• Proven Production: Judkins's college stats speak for themselves. He's a proven producer who consistently delivered at a high level. This isn't a player who flashed potential; he delivered tangible results.
• Physical Attributes: He possesses a rare combination of size, speed, and power, making him a difficult back to bring down. This physical dominance translates well to the NFL, where size and strength often dictate success.
• High-Volume Potential: In a league increasingly focused on the running game, Judkins has the potential to become a workhorse back, securing a significant number of carries each week. This high-volume potential is crucial for fantasy success.

The Risks Involved in Drafting Quinshon Judkins:

While the upside is considerable, drafting Judkins also presents several risks fantasy managers must consider:

• The Rookie Wall: The transition from college to the NFL is notoriously difficult, especially for running backs. Many promising rookies struggle to adapt to the increased speed and physicality of the professional game. The infamous "rookie wall" is a real concern.
• Offensive Line Uncertainty: The success of any running back is heavily reliant on the performance of his offensive line. If Judkins's team doesn't have a strong offensive line, his effectiveness will be significantly hampered. We'll need to monitor his team's offseason moves closely.
• Shared Backfield: Even if he performs well, Judkins may face competition for carries, potentially limiting his overall fantasy production. A crowded backfield could significantly diminish his value.
• Injury Risk: Running backs are inherently susceptible to injuries. A significant injury could derail his entire season, rendering your draft pick useless.

Where Should You Draft Him?

Given the risks and rewards, Judkins should be considered a mid-to-late-round pick. Avoid reaching for him in the early rounds. His potential is undeniable, but the inherent uncertainty surrounding rookie running backs demands a cautious approach. Use your ADP (Average Draft Position) as a guide, but don't hesitate to let other managers reach for him if you're not comfortable with the risk.

Conclusion:

Quinshon Judkins offers exciting upside in fantasy football. His college production and physical tools are undeniable. However, the inherent risks associated with drafting rookie running backs, particularly in a potentially crowded backfield, must be carefully weighed. Do your research, understand the risks, and draft accordingly. Good luck with your drafts! For more fantasy football advice, check out our [link to another relevant article on your site].