Rams Draft Auburn’s Jarquez Hunter in Fourth Round of 2025 NFL Draft

VAN NUYS, California – The Los Angeles Rams have selected running back Jarquez Hunter from Auburn University with the 117th overall pick in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft on Saturday. The Rams traded up from the 127th pick, sending a sixth-round selection to the Indianapolis Colts to secure Hunter.

Standing at 5 feet 9 inches and weighing 204 pounds, Hunter was a standout at Auburn, earning First-Team All-Southeastern Conference honors in 2024. He led his team with 1,201 rushing yards and scored eight touchdowns in 12 games for the Tigers. He also recorded 21 receptions for 155 yards during his college career.

Hunter joins a crowded running back group in Los Angeles that includes Kyren Williams, Blake Corum, Ronnie Rivers, and Cody Schrader. “I’m a very North-to-South runner — downhill runner,” Hunter said during a videoconference with reporters after his selection. “I feel like I can catch the ball out of the backfield and pass protect.”

Earlier in the draft, the Rams selected Oregon tight end Terrance Ferguson in the second round. Hunter adds depth to a position where Williams is entering his final year of a rookie contract and Corum is still proving himself after his second season.

Hunter hails from Philadelphia, Mississippi, a small town with a population around 7,000. He majored in natural resource management at Auburn, earning his degree in May 2024. “I grew up in the country. I mean, that’s all it is, is trees around here,” Hunter said post-draft. He expressed optimism about finding a rural vibe in Los Angeles and is excited to explore the outdoors in California.

Hunter was well-prepared for the draft, having spoken with the Rams multiple times beforehand. He impressed coaches during pre-draft meetings, expressing confidence that Los Angeles was a fitting place for him. “I felt like there was just this connection with me and the coaches,” he said.

At Auburn, Hunter showcased impressive strength, squatting 600 pounds as a freshman and later hitting 655 pounds in the weight room. He clocked a time of 4.44 seconds in the 40-yard dash at this year’s NFL Scouting Combine, highlighting his explosiveness as a running back. “I feel like I can run and catch the ball out of the backfield,” he noted.

Being drafted by the Rams was an emotional moment for Hunter. He described his heartbeat racing when he received the call from the team, saying he was so excited he nearly shed tears. “I’m very excited to come to L.A. and get a chance, get an opportunity,” he remarked.