The Tennessee Volunteers faced a significant challenge in their first-round College Football Playoff game against the Ohio State Buckeyes when running back Dylan Sampson sustained an apparent knee injury late in the first quarter. The injury, which occurred at the 3:27 mark of the first quarter, led to Sampson being listed as questionable to return. Since heading to the locker room, he has not re-entered the game. Before his injury, Sampson had minimal involvement, recording only three touches—two carries and one reception—for a total of eight yards.
Dylan Sampson’s Impact This Season
Sampson has been a vital component of Tennessee’s offense throughout the season. He has accumulated 1,485 rushing yards on 256 attempts, averaging 5.8 yards per carry, and has scored 22 rushing touchdowns. Additionally, he contributed in the passing game with 19 receptions for 141 yards, averaging 7.4 yards per catch, although he did not record any receiving touchdowns. His consistent performance has made him a key player for the Volunteers.
Dylan Sampson’s 2025 NFL Draft Projection
As a third-year college player, Sampson is eligible for the 2025 NFL Draft. His talent has drawn significant attention from scouts and teams. Known for his explosiveness and versatility as both a runner and a receiver, he projects as a valuable asset who can stay on the field in various situations.
Sampson’s draft stock is further bolstered by his relatively clean injury history, making his recent knee injury noteworthy but not a major concern for teams evaluating his long-term potential. With his quick bursts and productivity, Sampson is considered one of the top running back prospects eligible for the draft.
Although the running back position is often a lower priority for many NFL teams, Sampson is expected to be selected in the mid-to-late second round of the draft, given his skill set and versatility. While he may not possess the elite attributes required to be a first-round pick, his reliability and dual-threat capabilities make him a coveted player at hi
s position.