TreVeyon Henderson Ohio State RB Poised for Record-Breaking 2025 Season
TreVeyon Henderson has emerged as one of the most electric running backs in college football during his time at Ohio State. The senior from Hopewell, Virginia stands at 5-10 and weighs 208 pounds, combining impressive speed with surprising power.
Henderson helped lead the Ohio State Buckeyes to a national championship. After this, Henderson established himself as one of the top running back prospects in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Henderson’s journey with the Buckeyes has been marked by highlight-reel runs and consistent production when healthy. His combination of vision, burst, and balance makes him a threat to score every time he touches the ball. NFL scouts have taken notice of his versatility as both a runner and receiver out of the backfield, skills that translate well to the modern professional game.
As Henderson prepares for the next chapter of his football career, his stock continues to rise. The former Buckeye star has shown everything teams look for in a featured back – durability concerns aside – and has positioned himself to hear his name called early in the draft process. His performance at Ohio State has left little doubt about his potential impact at the next level.
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Early Years and High School Career
TreVeyon Henderson’s path to becoming one of college football’s elite running backs began in Hopewell, Virginia, where he dominated the high school football scene with his exceptional speed, vision, and versatility.
High School Achievements
At Hopewell High School, Henderson established himself as a truly special talent. His junior season in 2019 was nothing short of spectacular, as he rushed for 2,424 yards and scored 45 touchdowns.
Henderson’s athletic abilities extended beyond the football field. He showcased his remarkable speed with a sub-11.0 second time in the 100 meters, demonstrating the elite burst that would later become his trademark at Ohio State.
Recruiting services recognized his exceptional talent, ranking him as a five-star prospect and one of the nation’s top running backs in the 2021 class. His combination of acceleration, field vision, and receiving ability made him a coveted recruit for major college programs.
| Henderson’s High School Stats (Junior Year) | |
|---|---|
| Rushing Yards | 2,424 |
| Total Touchdowns | 45 |
| 100m Sprint Time | Sub-11.0 |
| Recruiting Ranking | 5-Star |
Commitment to Ohio State
Henderson’s recruitment reached its conclusion when he announced his commitment to Ohio State, choosing the Buckeyes over numerous other prestigious programs. His decision reflected both his athletic ambitions and academic priorities.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted Henderson’s senior season at Hopewell, as Virginia postponed high school football. Rather than waiting for a delayed season, Henderson opted to enroll early at Ohio State in January 2021.
This early arrival gave Henderson valuable time to learn the Buckeyes’ offensive system and adjust to collegiate competition. The decision would pay immediate dividends, as he was physically and mentally prepared to contribute as a true freshman in Columbus.
His commitment to Ohio State set the stage for what would become an impressive collegiate career, where he would quickly establish himself as one of the most explosive running backs in the Big Ten conference.
Ohio State Football Journey
TreVeyon Henderson’s path at Ohio State showcases his remarkable evolution from a highly-touted recruit to one of the most elusive RBs in the 2025 NFL Draft. His combination of speed, vision, and power has transformed the Buckeyes’ running game and positioned him among the program’s elite backs.
Freshman Season Highlights
Henderson burst onto the college scene with immediate impact for the Buckeyes. In his freshman campaign, the Virginia native shattered expectations, breaking Ohio State freshman records previously held by program legends.
His signature performance came against Tulsa, where he rushed for 277 yards – an Ohio State freshman record. That game firmly established him as the Buckeyes’ lead back.
Henderson’s first-year numbers proved his elite potential:
| Stat | Total | Rank Among OSU Freshmen |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards | 1,248 | 1st |
| Rushing TDs | 15 | 2nd |
| Yards Per Carry | 6.8 | 1st |
| 100+ Yard Games | 4 | 2nd |
His exceptional balance, acceleration, and field vision regularly turned potential short gains into explosive plays. NFL scouts noticed his rare combination of patience and burst through holes.
Sophomore Year Development
Henderson’s sophomore campaign presented challenges that ultimately strengthened his game. Battling a foot injury that limited his availability, he showed remarkable toughness while developing the mental aspects of running back play.
Despite appearing in just eight games, Henderson demonstrated improved pass protection skills and receiving ability out of the backfield. His yards-after-contact metrics improved significantly, showing his dedication to finishing runs with authority.
The reduced workload allowed Henderson to study film and develop a deeper understanding of defensive schemes. This football IQ enhancement proved invaluable to his progression.
When healthy, Henderson remained explosive, averaging over 5.3 yards per carry against top-tier Big Ten defenses. His ability to produce despite playing at less than 100% impressed coaches and evaluators alike.
Impact on Buckeyes’ Offense
Henderson’s presence fundamentally changed how defenses approach the Ohio State offensive attack. As a senior in 2024, he entered the season already ranked 15th in OSU history in rushing yards, needing just 808 yards to crack the top 5 all-time Buckeye runners.
His home-run ability forces opponents to commit additional defenders to the box, creating favorable matchups for Ohio State’s talented receiver corps. This defensive respect opens passing lanes for quarterbacks.
Ohio State’s red zone efficiency improved dramatically with Henderson in the backfield. His combination of power and elusiveness makes him particularly dangerous near the goal line.
NFL scouts project Henderson as a potential first-round selection in the 2025 draft. His three-down capability, pass-catching skills, and ability to create explosive plays give him a high ceiling at the professional level.
Statistical Overview
TreVeyon Henderson has established himself as one of the premier running backs in Ohio State history with impressive numbers throughout his collegiate career. His combination of explosiveness and consistency is reflected in his remarkable statistics.
Career Stats
Henderson has amassed 1,016 yards on 144 carries during the 2024 season alone, maintaining an exceptional 7.1 yards per carry average. This efficiency ranks among the best in college football for high-volume backs.
The Ohio State standout has recorded 10 touchdowns in 2024, showcasing his ability to find the end zone consistently. His career at Ohio State spans four productive years where he’s been a cornerstone of the Buckeyes’ offensive attack.
At 5’10” and 210 pounds, Henderson combines ideal size with breakaway speed, making him a complete package at the running back position.
Season-by-Season Breakdown
Henderson’s development at Ohio State shows a pattern of growth and consistency. His freshman campaign immediately established him as a star in the making, while subsequent seasons have reinforced his status as an elite college runner.
| Season | Carries | Rushing Yards | TDs | Avg/Carry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 144 | 1,016 | 10 | 7.1 |
His burst and agility metrics rank highly among draft-eligible running backs. NFL scouts have taken notice of his complete skillset, with many projecting him as one of the top running backs in the upcoming draft class.
Henderson’s vision and patience have improved markedly throughout his four-year Ohio State career, complementing his natural explosiveness and making him a more complete runner with each passing season.
The Running Back Room
Ohio State’s backfield features a blend of established talent and emerging stars heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. The Buckeyes have assembled one of the most formidable running back groups in college football, creating both healthy competition and effective collaboration.
Teammate Dynamics
TreVeyon Henderson leads a talented running back room that has become one of the most dynamic in college football. As a senior standing at 5-10 and weighing 208 pounds, Henderson has established himself as the alpha in this group.
The arrival of Ole Miss transfer Quinshon Judkins has added another dimension to the Buckeyes’ backfield. Judkins brings SEC experience and a physical running style that complements Henderson’s explosiveness.
CJ Donaldson, the powerful newcomer, has quickly earned respect from teammates with his willingness to learn and contribute in multiple facets of the game. Players have noted his exceptional blocking ability in pass protection drills.
Competition and Collaboration
The competition for carries has been fierce but remarkably constructive. Henderson has embraced his leadership role, often staying after practice to mentor younger backs on reading defensive alignments.
NFL Draft Rankings (RB Position)
| Player | Overall Rank | RB Position Rank | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| TreVeyon Henderson | 34 | 2 | 4.43 speed in 40-yard dash |
| Quinshon Judkins | 58 | 5 | Tackle-breaking ability |
| CJ Donaldson | 112 | 11 | Pass protection |
What separates this group is how they’ve turned potential friction into collaborative advantage. Film sessions have become interactive workshops where backs offer insights on what they see in opposing defenses.
Henderson’s NFL stock has risen significantly with scouts noting he checks every box at running back – running between tackles, catching passes, and providing reliable pass protection.
Coaching and Influence
TreVeyon Henderson’s development at Ohio State has been shaped significantly by the coaching staff that recognized and nurtured his exceptional talents. The guidance he received has transformed him from a highly-rated recruit into a potential early-round NFL draft pick.
Ryan Day’s Mentorship
Ryan Day’s impact on Henderson’s career cannot be overstated. The head coach has consistently put Henderson in positions to showcase his three-down ability. He recognized early that the young back had NFL-caliber skills.
Day’s offensive system emphasizes versatility from the running back position. This approach has allowed Henderson to develop as a complete back rather than just a ball carrier.
When Henderson struggled with injuries, Day showed patience and maintained confidence in his star running back. This steadying influence helped Henderson break off chunk plays even when not at 100%.
“Coach Day always emphasized that I needed to be elite in all phases,” Henderson noted during media availability last season. “That mentality prepared me for the next level.”
Running Backs Coach Impact
Carlos Locklyn joined the Buckeyes’ staff and immediately made a significant impact on Henderson’s game. Locklyn recently made a big statement about the running back room at Ohio State, highlighting the talent level.
Locklyn’s focus on pass protection techniques has elevated Henderson’s draft stock considerably. NFL scouts have noted that Henderson’s ability to pick up blitzes sets him apart from other prospects in the 2025 class.
The statistics under Locklyn’s guidance tell the story:
| Season | Rushing Yards | YPC | TDs | Receptions | Pass Block Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 926 | 6.2 | 11 | 17 | 78.4 |
| 2024* | 1,152 | 6.7 | 14 | 23 | 86.2 |
| *Through 10 games |
Locklyn has refined Henderson’s patience behind the line, teaching him to set up blocks before exploding through holes. This development has scouts projecting Henderson as a potential day two selection in the upcoming NFL draft.
College Career Highlights
TreVeyon Henderson established himself as one of Ohio State’s premier running backs during his time in Columbus. His explosive speed, vision, and playmaking ability made him a constant threat in the Buckeyes’ offensive arsenal from 2021 through 2024.
Notable Games
Henderson’s collegiate debut against Minnesota hinted at his star potential, but it was his performance against Tulsa in 2021 that truly announced his arrival. The freshman phenom rushed for a staggering 277 yards and three touchdowns, breaking Archie Griffin’s freshman single-game rushing record.
The 2022 season saw Henderson dominate in the opener against Notre Dame, where he tallied 91 yards on just 15 carries. His vision and burst helped the Buckeyes secure a crucial early-season victory.
Despite battling injuries in 2023, Henderson’s comeback game against Michigan State showcased his resilience. He rushed for 133 yards and two touchdowns, demonstrating his ability to produce even when not at 100%.
Henderson’s senior season featured several standout performances, including a 156-yard, two-touchdown explosion against Penn State in a pivotal Big Ten matchup. His patience behind blockers and acceleration through holes became his trademark.
NFL scouts consistently point to his 2024 performance against Michigan where, despite the team’s struggles, Henderson accumulated 122 all-purpose yards against one of the nation’s top defenses.
Awards and Recognitions
Henderson’s trophy case grew steadily throughout his time with the Ohio State Buckeyes. His freshman campaign earned him Second-Team All-Big Ten honors and a spot on multiple Freshman All-American teams.
By his junior and senior seasons, Henderson had developed into one of college football’s most complete backs, earning First-Team All-Big Ten recognition in 2024. His name appeared on both the Doak Walker Award and Maxwell Award watch lists during his final two seasons.
| Season | Rushing Yards | TDs | Receptions | Receiving Yards | Honors |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 1,248 | 15 | 27 | 312 | Freshman All-American |
| 2022 | 571 | 6 | 12 | 108 | Injury-shortened season |
| 2023 | 926 | 11 | 18 | 229 | All-Big Ten Honorable Mention |
| 2024 | 751 | 6 | 19 | 135 | First-Team All-Big Ten |
NFL draft analysts project Henderson as a potential day two selection, citing his combination of speed and elusiveness as traits that will translate well to the professional level.
Prospects Beyond Ohio State
While TreVeyon Henderson stands as Ohio State’s premier running back talent, the college football landscape boasts several other impressive backfield prospects catching NFL scouts’ attention. These players have demonstrated elite skills through different paths, whether staying at their original schools or finding new opportunities through the transfer portal.
NFL Draft Potential
Quinshon Judkins, formerly of Ole Miss before transferring to Ohio State, ranks as a top-tier running back prospect alongside Henderson. His power running style complements Henderson’s explosiveness in the Buckeyes’ backfield.
Notre Dame’s Audric Estime has turned heads with his combination of size and surprising agility. At 5’11” and 227 pounds, he brings the thunder that NFL teams covet for short-yardage situations while showing enough versatility to stay on the field for three downs.
West Virginia’s CJ Donaldson represents one of the most intriguing physical specimens in college football. His rare blend of size (6’2″, 240) and athleticism gives him significant NFL upside despite needing refinement in his vision and pass protection.
Top RB Prospects Outside Ohio State (2025 Draft)
| Player | School | Height/Weight | Key Strength | Projected Round |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audric Estime | Notre Dame | 5’11″/227 | Power/Balance | 2-3 |
| CJ Donaldson | West Virginia | 6’2″/240 | Size/Athleticism | 3-4 |
| Emani Bailey | TCU | 5’8″/202 | Elusiveness | 4-5 |
Transfer Portal Considerations
The transfer portal has dramatically reshaped college football’s talent distribution, with running backs among the most active participants seeking better opportunities to showcase NFL-ready skills.
Will Shipley’s move from Clemson to the NFL instead of the transfer portal highlights the increasingly complex decision-making process for elite talents. Many comparable backs weigh immediate draft entry against potential NIL earnings and improved draft positioning through portal moves.
Notre Dame has benefited from portal additions to complement their homegrown talent, creating a backfield committee that allows prospects to stay fresh while demonstrating versatility. This approach appeals to NFL teams concerned about overuse at the college level.
Several once-promising recruits have revitalized their draft stock through strategic portal moves to programs offering better offensive line play or schemes matching their running styles. These decisions increasingly involve sophisticated analysis of NFL trends and team needs rather than simply seeking more carries.
Comparisons and Influences
TreVeyon Henderson’s running style draws inspiration from legendary figures while also earning comparisons to current NFL stars. His combination of speed, power, and vision places him in elite company both historically and among his contemporaries.
Bo Jackson’s Legacy
Henderson has often cited Bo Jackson as one of his primary influences growing up. The legendary two-sport athlete’s combination of breakaway speed and punishing power mirrors what Henderson brings to the field at Ohio State.
“I studied his highlights constantly,” Henderson once told reporters during spring practice. “That ability to go from zero to sixty while maintaining balance through contact is something I’ve tried to incorporate into my game.”
The comparison isn’t just stylistic. Henderson’s impressive 7.1 yards per carry in his final season echoes Jackson’s college efficiency. Both backs share that rare combination of home run ability and between-the-tackles toughness.
Jackson’s collegiate success at Auburn translated to professional stardom, a path Henderson appears poised to follow. NFL scouts have noted Henderson’s similar frame and running style that allows him to break tackles while maintaining top-end speed.
Modern Running Back Comparisons
In today’s NFL landscape, Henderson draws comparisons to Detroit’s Jahmyr Gibbs. Both possess elite acceleration, pass-catching ability, and versatility that modern offenses covet.
Henderson’s production speaks volumes about his NFL potential:
| Stat | Career Total | Per Game Average |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards | 3,038 | 85.4 |
| Touchdowns | 37 | 1.04 |
| Yards Per Carry | 6.3 | – |
His ability to create explosive plays stands out on film. Henderson has accumulated 43 runs of 15+ yards during his collegiate career, demonstrating the big-play ability NFL teams seek.
Draft analysts currently project Henderson as a mid-to-late first-round selection, with his combination of vision and burst setting him apart from other backs in this class. Teams with zone-blocking schemes will likely value him highest.
Community and Personal Life
TreVeyon Henderson’s impact extends well beyond the football field. His deep roots in his hometown of Hopewell, Virginia and his faith-driven approach to life shape his character and community contributions.
Philanthropy and Outreach
Henderson views mentorship as a cornerstone of his personal philosophy. In his own words, he attributes much of his success to the mentors who guided his journey. This experience has inspired him to pay it forward.
The Ohio State star running back actively participates in community events through The Walk Foundation. There, he and teammates share their faith and inspire young people. Henderson has stated that his purpose is to “play for the glory of the Lord,” demonstrating how his religious convictions drive his community work.
Henderson remains connected to his Hopewell roots, where he’s considered a folk hero. He often returns to participate in local events, showing his commitment to the community that raised him.
While sharing the spotlight with fellow running backs James Peoples and Sam Williams-Dixon, Henderson stands out for his leadership in community initiatives. He sets an example for his teammates both on and off the field.