Trevor Lawrence on what he’s seen from Jaguars’ rookie RBs Bhayshul Tuten and LeQuint Allen during offseason programs.

It’s early, and evaluating the running back position at this time on the NFL calendar can be difficult when the pads aren’t on. However, quarterback Trevor Lawrence likes what he has seen so far from the Jacksonville Jaguars’ rookie running backs.

“Obviously, Bhayshul’s fast,” Lawrence said. “He can fly, and that’s a weapon.” … “LeQuint’s been awesome. Pass protection, it seems like he really understands it. Great hands. Hard worker. I’ve been impressed with his attitude and how he carries himself.”

Tuten was one of Jacksonville’s fourth-round selections and was the fastest running back at this year’s NFL combine, posting a 4.32-second 40.

That, of course, led to some big plays, which last season included Tuten averaging 6.3 yards per rush, along with ranking third in average yards after contact, 14th in missed tackles forced, and recording the ninth-most rushes of 15 or more yards, according to PFF.

Allen, meanwhile, was a big factor in the Syracuse passing game. In 2024, he recorded 78 targets and caught 64 of those passes for 529 yards and four scores. Along with the sheer number of targets, Allen was also tasked with lining up in the slot, and there were also drawn-up pass-catching opportunities for him as well.

Within Liam Coen’s offense, as we saw in Tampa Bay last season, the running backs’ ability to contribute in the passing game is a must in this system. Rachaad White ranked ninth among all running backs in receptions, while Bucky Irving was 10th.

However, like any rookie, both Tuten and Allen are navigating the learning curve that comes with making the jump from college to the NFL level. This includes adapting to a new playbook and offensive scheme, along with adjusting to the play speed and strength of NFL defenders.

“I think, just for those guys, like I said, coming in and you’re learning so much and so much is changing, just for them to get comfortable so they can go play,” Lawrence added. “Running back is such a feel position and you gotta get into the flow of the game and without pads it can be tough. So it’s hard to say, but I’ve been impressed with those guys, just how they’ve picked it up.”

How exactly the playing time at the running back position with Tuten, Allen, Travis Etienne, and Tank Bigsby will shake out remains to be seen and will be determined by what happens during training camp and the preseason.

Also, if the Jaguars do intend to keep four running backs on the 53-man roster, that means having to go light at another position group in order for the roster math to work out.