Washington Running Backs 2025 Season Review: Coleman Leads, Youth Emerges
The 2025 season saw Washington finish 9-4 under head coach Jedd Fisch, capped with a win over Boise State in the Bucked Up LA Bowl. With the season now in the books, it’s time to take a closer look at the Huskies’ running back room - a group that brought a mix of veteran leadership, breakout performances, and next-man-up resilience.
Let’s start with the headline: Jonah Coleman. From the moment the 2024 season ended, there was anticipation around Coleman’s senior year.
And for good reason. This was finally his chance to run behind a solid offensive line, with the offense designed to lean on his skill set.
He was expected to be a key piece in helping freshman quarterback Demond Williams settle into the starting role - and early on, that’s exactly how things played out.
Coleman brought the kind of physicality and vision that not only moved the chains but set the tone. He ran with purpose, showing off the balance and footwork that had scouts buzzing. There’s a reason many see him as a future NFL back - he’s got the tools: low center of gravity, strong legs through contact, and just enough burst to break off chunk plays when the blocking held.
But as is often the case in college football, the script didn’t go exactly as planned. Coleman went down with an injury midway through the season, and suddenly, Washington’s backfield became a question mark. That’s when the young guys stepped in - and stepped up.
The Huskies got meaningful contributions from a pair of underclassmen who weren’t just filling in - they were competing. They brought different styles to the table, but both showed poise beyond their years.
One was a shiftier, change-of-pace back who could get to the edge and create in space. The other brought a more downhill, between-the-tackles approach that helped keep the offense on schedule.
Together, they gave the Huskies a balanced look out of the backfield - and more importantly, kept the offense afloat during a stretch when it could’ve easily stalled. Their ability to protect the quarterback, pick up blitzes, and stay reliable in short-yardage situations allowed Williams to continue developing without the full weight of the offense on his shoulders.
By the time Coleman returned, the running back room had evolved. What started as a one-man show turned into a deeper, more versatile unit. Coleman’s presence still anchored the group, but now Washington had options - and that depth paid off down the stretch.
In the bowl game against Boise State, the run game was a steadying force. Whether it was Coleman grinding out tough yards or the young backs spelling him with fresh legs, the Huskies controlled tempo and wore down the Broncos’ front seven. It was a fitting end to a season where the running back room had to adapt, grow, and ultimately deliver.
Looking ahead, Washington’s backfield is in good shape. Coleman will move on, likely to the next level, but the foundation is there. The young backs gained valuable reps and confidence, and with another offseason under their belts, they’ll be ready to take the reins.
In a season full of transition - new quarterback, evolving offensive identity - the running backs were a steadying presence. And as Washington continues to build under Fisch, that kind of reliability in the backfield will remain a cornerstone of their offensive identity.