Dylan Sampson Tennessee RB Excels in Spring Training Ahead of 2025 Season
Dylan Sampson has emerged as one of the most electrifying running backs in the SEC. The Tennessee Volunteers speedster brings rare acceleration to the position, having clocked a blazing 10.48 in the 100m during his track days. His combination of academic excellence (4.0 GPA) and athletic ability makes him a compelling NFL prospect who could rise quickly on draft boards.
At 5’11” and 190 pounds, Sampson has rushed for 2,492 yards on 422 carries throughout his career, averaging an impressive 5.9 yards per carry with 35 touchdowns. He’s also demonstrated versatility in the passing game, recording 39 catches for 340 yards and a touchdown. These numbers don’t fully capture his game-breaking potential when he hits the open field.
Born September 14, 2004, the American football running back began his Tennessee career third on the depth chart but quickly showed he belonged on the big stage. NFL scouts have taken notice of his track-star speed, football IQ, and ability to impact games in multiple ways. His draft stock continues to trend upward as he showcases his talents against SEC competition.
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Early Life and High School Career
Dylan Sampson’s journey to becoming a standout running back for the Tennessee Volunteers began in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. His exceptional high school career at Dutchtown High School set the foundation for his college success.
High School Achievements
At Dutchtown High School, the largest school in Louisiana, Sampson made history as the first non-kicker to play varsity football at the institution. His talent quickly became evident as he developed into one of the state’s premier running backs.
The Baton Rouge native accomplished something truly remarkable during his prep career – he broke Eddie Lacy’s rushing records at Dutchtown High School. Lacy, who went on to star at Alabama and in the NFL, left impressive marks that Sampson managed to surpass.
Despite his exceptional production, Sampson was rated as just a three-star recruit coming out of high school. This modest ranking belied the impact he would soon make at the collegiate level.
| Sampson’s High School Highlights | |
|---|---|
| Rating | 3-star |
| Notable Achievement | Broke Eddie Lacy’s rushing records |
| Hometown | Baton Rouge, Louisiana |
| High School | Dutchtown |
Transition to College
Sampson arrived in Knoxville ready to contribute immediately to the Tennessee Volunteers program. Born on September 14, 2004, he brought youth and exceptional talent to the running back position.
Standing 5’11” and weighing 201 pounds, Sampson possessed the ideal build for an SEC running back – compact enough to hide behind blockers but sturdy enough to withstand the punishment of conference play. His physical attributes complemented his natural running instincts.
The transition from high school star to college contributor came naturally for Sampson. His early development at Tennessee showed the same leadership qualities that made him successful at Dutchtown. As one observer noted, “it’s in his nature to be a leader,” a trait that would serve him well in the SEC.
College Career at Tennessee
Dylan Sampson emerged as one of Tennessee’s most dynamic offensive weapons during his time in Knoxville. His blend of speed, vision, and scoring ability made him a standout performer in the competitive SEC landscape.
Freshman Year Impact
Sampson arrived at Tennessee in 2022 with modest expectations but quickly turned heads. The Louisiana native appeared in 11 games, rushing for 240 yards and scoring 4 touchdowns while serving as a complementary piece to the Volunteers’ offense.
His breakout performance came against Akron, where he rushed for three touchdowns in a dominant showing. This game showcased his explosive potential and knack for finding the endzone.
Despite limited touches as a freshman, Sampson maintained an impressive 5.9 yards per carry, hinting at his big-play capability. His patience and field vision belied his young age.
By season’s end, Sampson had established himself as a promising piece of Tennessee’s offensive future. His work ethic and adaptability caught the coaching staff’s attention, setting the stage for an expanded role.
Sophomore Season Highlights
Sampson’s sophomore campaign saw him emerge as a genuine offensive threat. His production jumped significantly as he took on more responsibility in the Volunteers’ backfield committee.
The speedster tallied 710 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns, demonstrating his increased role in Tennessee’s offensive scheme. His receiving skills also developed, hauling in 16 catches for 176 yards.
Against Kentucky, Sampson delivered a statement performance with 155 yards and 2 touchdowns on just 17 carries. His explosive runs consistently put defenses on their heels.
| Sophomore Stats | Totals |
|---|---|
| Rushing Yards | 710 |
| Touchdowns | 11 |
| Receptions | 16 |
| Receiving Yards | 176 |
Sampson’s sophomore leap earned him honorable mention All-SEC recognition. NFL scouts began noting his acceleration and scoring instinct, with early draft boards projecting him as a potential mid-round selection.
Junior Year Progression
Sampson’s junior season cemented his status as one of the SEC’s premier backs. Taking over as the Volunteers’ featured runner, he responded with a campaign that placed him among Tennessee’s all-time greats.
The dynamic back amassed 1,345 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns, ranking second in the conference in both categories. His 35 career rushing touchdowns tied for second all-time at Tennessee with James Stewart.
Against Alabama, Sampson delivered a performance for the ages: 203 yards, 3 touchdowns, and the game-winning score in the final minute. This effort earned him SEC Offensive Player of the Week honors.
His receiving production continued developing with 23 catches for 164 yards and a touchdown. This versatility raised his NFL draft stock considerably, with analysts now projecting him as a potential second-round selection.
Sampson’s combination of speed, vision, and production has NFL teams viewing him as an immediate-impact rookie with three-down potential at the next level.
Playing Style and Skills
Dylan Sampson brings an impressive combination of explosiveness, patience, and versatility that makes him a valuable offensive weapon. His compact frame allows him to excel in multiple facets of the game, making him an intriguing NFL prospect.
Rushing Abilities
Sampson’s rushing style is defined by his remarkable patience and explosive playmaking ability. He runs extremely hard and never gives up on plays, making him consistently effective in short-yardage situations. This tenacity is complemented by his excellent contact balance.
Despite his smaller stature, Sampson handles contact surprisingly well. His ability to stay upright through tackles and gain extra yards makes him more than just a speed back.
Vision is another standout attribute in Sampson’s toolkit. He shows exceptional patience behind the line of scrimmage, setting up blocks before exploding through holes with impressive burst.
His short-area quickness and acceleration allow him to hit gaps decisively when they appear. This combination of patience and explosiveness makes him particularly dangerous in zone-running schemes.
2023-24 Rushing Statistics:
| Stat | Total | Rank (SEC) |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards | 1,038 | 4th |
| Touchdowns | 14 | 2nd |
| Yards Per Carry | 5.4 | 3rd |
Receiving Skills
Sampson’s value extends well beyond his rushing abilities – he’s developed into a legitimate receiving threat out of the backfield. His hands are reliable, allowing him to consistently catch passes away from his body.
In the passing game, Sampson demonstrates natural route-running ability that’s rare for running backs. He creates separation with quick movements and understands how to find open space against linebackers.
His 25.4-yard per-game average topped the SEC, and he shared the national lead with six catches of 50+ yards. This big-play ability makes him a potential three-down back at the next level.
Sampson shows excellent concentration in traffic and an innate ability to adjust to poorly thrown passes. These traits, combined with his open-field elusiveness, make him a true dual-threat running back.
NFL scouts are particularly intrigued by his potential as an asset in the passing game, which could elevate his draft stock in today’s pass-heavy NFL offenses.
Statistical Overview
Dylan Sampson has emerged as one of the most productive running backs in Tennessee history, amassing impressive numbers that showcase both his explosiveness and consistency. His statistical profile reveals a player who excels at finding the end zone while maintaining elite efficiency with the ball in his hands.
College Career Statistics
Sampson’s 2024 season stands as his defining campaign, where he rushed for 1,491 yards on 258 carries. The Baton Rouge native demonstrated remarkable efficiency, averaging 5.8 yards per carry throughout the season.
His scoring prowess became his signature attribute, with Sampson recording 22 rushing touchdowns in 2024 alone. This placed him among the nation’s elite in terms of finding the end zone.
While primarily known for his ground game, Sampson also contributed in the passing attack, adding 143 receiving yards to his offensive production.
| Season | Carries | Rushing Yards | YPC | Rush TDs | Rec. Yards | Rec. TDs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 258 | 1,491 | 5.8 | 22 | 143 | 0 |
Notable Records and Milestones
Sampson’s 22 touchdowns in a single season placed him among the all-time Tennessee greats. This scoring output established him as one of the most prolific backs in Volunteers history.
His 1,491 rushing yards ranks among the top single-season performances for Tennessee running backs, showcasing his ability to be both a volume carrier and an explosive playmaker.
NFL scouts have taken notice of Sampson’s combination of production and athleticism. His 4.42 forty-yard dash time has elevated his draft stock, with many analysts projecting him as a potential mid-round selection.
Vol Nation and the Community
The relationship between Tennessee players and Vol Nation represents one of college football’s most passionate connections. Sampson has embraced this culture fully, becoming a fan favorite not just for his record-breaking touchdown performances but for his community engagement.
Players like Sampson frequently visit East Tennessee Children’s Hospital and participate in local charity events. This commitment to service isn’t optional at Tennessee—it’s woven into the program’s DNA.
The Rocky Top faithful create an atmosphere few programs can match. When Sampson breaks a long run in Neyland Stadium, over 100,000 orange-clad supporters erupt with the famous “Rocky Top” anthem.
Coach Josh Heupel has reinforced these community bonds, emphasizing that being a Volunteer means representing Knoxville both on and off the field.
Vol Walk and Game Day Traditions
The Vol Walk stands as Tennessee’s signature pre-game ritual, a tradition Sampson has called “electric” in team interviews.
Two hours before kickoff, players make the ceremonial walk from Torchbearer Plaza to the stadium gates, greeted by thousands of cheering fans.
Inside Neyland, the traditions continue. The Pride of the Southland Band’s formation of the iconic “T” allows players like Sampson to run through onto Shields-Watkins Field, a moment he’s described as “goosebump-inducing” every single time.
Sampson has embodied Tennessee’s culture particularly during big games, serving as a spark plug in crucial moments against rivals like Alabama.
The checkerboard end zones and “Third Down for What” defensive celebrations create an atmosphere few stadiums can match. For running backs like Sampson, scoring in those checkered end zones represents the pinnacle of Tennessee tradition.
2025 NFL Draft Prospects
Dylan Sampson’s draft stock continues to rise as NFL scouts take notice of his explosive playmaking ability and versatility out of the backfield. His combination of speed and elusiveness make him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to add firepower to their offense.
Draft Analysis
Sampson currently projects as a mid-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. Most analysts have him ranked fourth among running backs in this class with a prospect grade of 7.61, placing him solidly in Tier 2 at the position. His draft positioning benefits from his impressive production at Tennessee.
The 5’11”, 190-pound back offers teams a dynamic playmaker who excels in space. What Sampson lacks in prototypical NFL size, he makes up for with exceptional burst and vision.
His statistical profile shows why scouts are intrigued. He ranked seventh in yards after contact and sixth in Missed Tackles Forced After A Rush last season, demonstrating his ability to create beyond what’s blocked.
| Metric | Ranking | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Yards After Contact | 7th | Shows toughness despite size |
| Missed Tackles Forced | 6th | Elite elusiveness |
| Explosive Runs (10+ yards) | Tied 10th | Big-play ability |
Professional Expectations
NFL teams will likely view Sampson as a complementary piece within a backfield committee rather than a traditional three-down workhorse. His explosiveness and receiving ability project well to today’s pass-heavy NFL offenses.
The primary concerns from scouts center on his pass protection abilities. He struggles to locate free rushers against blitz packages, and his frame raises questions about his ability to hold up against NFL defenders in protection schemes.
Sampson’s ideal landing spot would be with a team that can maximize his open-field abilities while minimizing his exposure to challenging pass protection situations. Teams with creative offensive coordinators who design space plays will value his skillset most.
With proper utilization, Sampson has the potential to outperform his draft position and become a valuable offensive weapon at the next level. His game-breaking speed and elusiveness provide the foundation for a successful NFL career as a change-of-pace back with upside.
Media and Public Perception
Dylan Sampson has garnered significant attention from sports media and fans alike, particularly after his record-setting performance at Tennessee. His draft stock and public image have evolved considerably as he prepares to enter the 2025 NFL Draft.
Press Coverage
Dylan Sampson’s media coverage intensified dramatically after being named SEC’s offensive player of the year. The Tennessee running back’s press interactions reveal a composed, articulate athlete who handles the spotlight with remarkable poise.
Beat reporters regularly praise Sampson’s accessibility. His media sessions, including a notable press conference captured on YouTube, demonstrate his thoughtful approach to questions and genuine demeanor.
National outlets have increasingly featured Sampson since he announced his NFL Draft entry after setting school single-season records for rushing yards. His recent top-30 visit with the Pittsburgh Steelers generated substantial coverage, signaling his rising draft profile.
NFL analysts typically project Sampson as a mid-second to early-third round selection, citing his production, explosiveness, and receiving ability as translatable NFL skills.
Social Media Presence
Sampson maintains a measured but authentic social media presence. Some prospects cultivate carefully crafted online personas, but his accounts offer genuine glimpses into his personality and work ethic.
His training videos regularly generate significant engagement. Clips highlighting his remarkable acceleration and cutting ability are particularly popular. Teammate Cooper Mays’ comments about Sampson’s abilities have also circulated widely across platforms.
Draft analysts frequently reference Sampson in their social breakdowns. Most rank him among the top 5-7 running backs in the 2025 class.
Draft Projection Stats:
| Metric | Ranking | Notable Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Speed Score | Top 3 RB | Similar to Kenneth Walker III |
| Pass Protection | Mid-tier | Room for improvement |
| Receiving Grade | Top 5 RB | Modern three-down potential |
| Injury History | Clean | Major plus for evaluators |
Fan sentiment across platforms remains overwhelmingly positive. Tennessee supporters are particularly vocal about his leadership qualities and community involvement.