Summary

Dylan Sampson was drafted in the 2025 NFL Draft, Round 4, (pick 126) out of University of Tennessee. Sampson is a dynamic, high-upside running back whose game is built on explosion, vision, and scoring ability. He proved himself at the collegiate level as a feature back, especially in 2024, and enters the NFL with a strong “home-run” threat whenever he touches the ball. In the right role, he can be a difference-maker.

However, his profile comes with caveats: his smaller frame, limited experience in the receiving and blocking facets, and questions about his long-term durability temper his projection. He may not immediately fit the prototype of a full-throttle every-down back without role adjustment or scheme support.

Strengths

• Explosiveness & burst: Sampson shows excellent first-step speed and acceleration. Scouts noted “elite acceleration and precise footwork” and ability to hit creases quickly. NFL Draft Buzz

• Vision and cutback ability: He dances in holes and manipulates blocks; film shows sharp one-cut to bounce runs and ability to improvise when the designed lane closes. Behind the Steel Curtain

• Productivity & touchdown scoring: His 2024 season included ~1,491 yards rushing and 22 touchdowns, earning him SEC Offensive Player of the Year. University of Tennessee Athletics

• Contact balance and toughness: Despite his size, Sampson generates strong yards after contact and shows stiffness through the line. Draft Sharks

• Youth and upside: As a younger prospect with less previous workload (compared to some backs), there is freshness and room to grow. NFL Draft Buzz

Weaknesses

• Size / physical frame concerns: At ~200 lbs, Sampson is smaller than many “every-down” NFL backs and this raises questions about his durability and ability to absorb wear-and-tear. Big Blue View

• Pass protection & receiving work at the moment: He has limited experience as a receiver and has shown weaknesses in pass protection—both important for full-time roles in modern offenses. NFL Draft Buzz

• Power vs very heavy loads / short yardage situations: Some scouting reports note his lack of elite “push” or true “thumper” style in short-yardage or goal-line work compared to larger backs. Big Blue View

• Workload & durability risk: With a heavier carry load in 2024 and the physical toll of the SEC, some concerns exist about how his body will hold up over multiple NFL seasons. Reuters

Fit & Outlook

• Fit:
  Sampson fits best in offenses that:

• deploy him in a rotational or complementary role early, allowing him chances to chase down blocks and exploit creases rather than carry all the load immediately;

• emphasize zone/gap schemes, give him space to operate, and possibly lighten the burden of heavy blitz recognition/pass-pro;

• give him receiving targets and work in pass-pro development gradually so he becomes a fuller three-down back over time.

• Outlook:

• Short-Term (Rookie Year): Likely to serve as a change-of-pace back or share duties, possibly seeing more early-down work while developing the passing game and protection skills.

• Medium-Term: If he improves his blocking, cuts down fumbles, and maintains health, he could ascend into a lead back role with strong production—especially in scoring and big-play metrics.