"I wouldn't be here without him": Ashton Jeanty shares glimpses of his Heisman speech after losing race to Travis Hunter

Boise State Broncos running back Ashton Jeanty had a strong 2024 season, leading the nation with 2,497 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns. His solid performances led Boise State into the College Football Playoff.

However, this season, he faced stiff competition from Colorado’s two-way sensation, Travis Hunter. Jeanty finished second in the Heisman race, with Hunter narrowly taking the prestigious award.

Saturday night marked the conclusion of one of the closest Heisman Trophy races in recent history, and the Boise State star handled the outcome with grace and humility.

When asked about his thoughts on the Heisman race and whether he had prepared a speech, Jeanty candidly shared glimpses of what he had planned to say with the reporters.

“First of all, I want to thank God and Jesus,” Jeanty began. “I wouldn’t be here without him, and none of this would be happening without His guidance. The way God is using me goes beyond football, and I’m grateful for that.” (starting at 5:20)

Jeanty also expressed his admiration for his fellow finalists and acknowledged the people who supported him along the way.

“I want to congratulate all the other finalists for this incredible achievement,” he said. “Of course, I thank my family, my mom, dad, brothers, sisters, and my girlfriend, along with my coaches, trainers, nutritionists, and everyone else who helped me get here. And to all the past Heisman winners.”

Jeanty ended his reflection with a touch of humor, smiling as he noted:

“It would have been a great speech, but hey, they didn’t want to hear it tonight.”

Ashton Jeanty’s possible NFL Draft and stats

The 2024 NFL Draft set a record for offensive selections in the first round, but no running backs were picked until the second round.

However, the 2025 draft is expected to be different. As a likely first-round pick, Jeanty has caught the attention of scouts. In addition to his strong rushing game, he has demonstrated his ability as a receiving back with 43 receptions for 569 yards and five touchdowns in 2023.

Jeanty, who is expected to be picked in round one of the 2025 NFL draft, expressed his desire to join the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL Draft. In an interview, the Boise State star shared his connection to Texas, saying:

“My family’s all in Texas. All of the connections, all of the relationships, I just feel that would be the perfect city to play in.”

Ashton Jeanty’s 2024 campaign was nothing short of historic. Heading into the College Football Playoff, he leads the FBS in several key categories:

Carries: 344

Rushing yards: 2,497

Yards per carry: 7.3

Yards per game: 192.1

Receptions: 20

Receiving yards: 116

Receiving touchdowns: 1

Jeanty’s 2,497 rushing yards place him fourth on the all-time single-season rushing list since 1956. Only legends Barry Sanders, Melvin Gordon and Kevin Smith have rushed for more in a single season.