Washington Huskies RB Jonah Coleman enters the draft as one of the most reliable and translatable running backs in the class, carrying a profile that NFL teams consistently value on Day 2. While he may not possess elite long-speed, Coleman’s vision, contact balance, and consistency from snap to snap make him a strong bet to contribute early and often at the next level.
Coleman emerged as the engine of Washington’s offense, shouldering volume without a drop-off in efficiency and thriving in both gap and zone concepts. His game is built on processing, patience, and physicality rather than flash, which positions him well for offensive coordinators seeking a back they can trust in all situations.
Notes:
Height: 5092 (verified in-season)
Weight: 225 (verified in-season)
Expected 40-Yard Dash: 4.55–4.60
College Production: High-volume lead back who handled early-down, short-yardage, and red-zone responsibilities while maintaining steady efficiency against stacked boxes. Rushed for 3,054 yards and 34 TDs during his four-year collegiate career at Arizona (two years) and Washington (two yea
Positives:
- Outstanding contact balance and core strength.
- Excellent vision between the tackles to consistently identify cutback lanes and creases.
- Patient runner with a natural feel for blocking development in zone schemes.
- Finishes runs with violence and purpose -- sets a physical tone for the offense.
- Reliable ball security and decision-making under heavy usage.
- Capable pass catcher on checkdowns and screens, adding functional third-down value.
Coleman’s tape reflects a runner who maximizes what is blocked and routinely creates additional yards through balance and leg drive. Minimal wasted movement with an economy of motion that translates cleanly to the NFL.
Negatives:
- Lacks true breakaway speed once he reaches the second level.
- Limited lateral explosiveness compared to smaller, space-oriented backs.
- Pass protection technique is solid but not elite and will require refinement.
- More functional than dynamic as a route runner out of the backfield.
His limitations cap his ceiling slightly, but do little to undermine his floor. His game is built to survive NFL contact and workload rather than win with rare athletic traits.
Jonah Coleman NFL Player Comparison: Brian Robinson Jr.
The comparison reflects body type, running temperament, and usage projection. Like Robinson, Coleman profiles as a dependable early-down back who can handle volume, control tempo, and wear down defenses over the course of a game due to a low-to-the-ground, compact frame.
Projection and Outlook:
Coleman carries a Mid Day 2 grade due to his combination of vision and physicality. He won't be the first running back selected, and may not even be the second back off the board, but he is one of the safest bets in the class to carve out a long-term role as a starter or high-end rotational back. Teams prioritizing reliability, toughness, and consistency over raw explosiveness will view Jonah Coleman as a strong value pick in the second or early third round, with immediate contribution potential and long-term staying power.
