Jedd Fisch and the Washington Huskies are coming off a rough season, but there were still plenty of positives — especially in the backfield. With a new year and a fresh start, the Huskies are looking to build around one player in particular who could become a star.
At least that’s how Pro Football Focus sees it.
PFF released its “College 50” rankings this week, listing the top 50 players in the country heading into the 2025 season. Washington running back Jonah Coleman came in at No. 32 overall.
Coleman had an opportunity to leave for the NFL Draft, but with a projected Day 3 grade, the decision to return made sense. Now, he’s in line for a featured role in Fisch’s offense and has a chance to prove himself as one of the top backs in the country.
He put together a strong season last year, rushing for 1,093 yards and 10 touchdowns while averaging an impressive 5.5 yards per carry. Coleman also showed off his versatility, hauling in 23 catches for 177 yards in the passing game.
Coleman has a real chance to take the next step and establish himself as one of college football’s best backs this season.
“Coleman has been one of college football’s most efficient runners since he arrived on the scene three years ago,” PFF wrote. “Across two seasons at Arizona and one at Washington, Coleman has posted a 95.4 career PFF rushing grade, tying him for fifth among FBS running backs in that span. No other returning running back places in the top 15.”
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At 5-foot-9 and 229 pounds, Coleman doesn’t look like your typical speed threat — but his tape says otherwise. He runs with power and balance, but also with quicker feet than most backs his size.
According to PFF, he’s averaged 4.6 yards after contact per attempt since 2023, which ranks third among all FBS running backs. His 35% forced missed tackle rate in that same stretch is tied for second among Power Four backs.
Coleman can also hurt defenses through the air.
Since 2023, he’s recorded 509 yards after the catch — the fourth most of any Power Four tailback, per PFF.
With his rare blend of strength, burst, and versatility, Coleman is expected to be the engine of the Huskies offense this season. Paired with first-year quarterback Demond Williams Jr., he could form one of the most dynamic backfields in the country.