Jarod Epperson: The Do-It-All Back With a Team-First Mentality
Jarod Epperson has been a model of consistency and explosiveness throughout his career at Augustana. A three-time 1,000-yard rusher, NSIC Champion, and one of the most complete backs in Division II, Epperson has proven he can produce on the ground, through the air, and in big moments. His blend of toughness, versatility, and humility has made him a locker room leader and a nightmare for defenses. I caught up with Jarod to talk about his development, leadership, and what makes him one of the most underrated running backs in the 2025 NFL Draft class.
You’ve put together multiple 1,000-yard seasons and led Augustana to an NSIC Championship — what do you think separates you from other running backs in this draft class?
I believe that I’m a complete running back all around. I’m capable of gaining yards between the tackles in short-yardage situations, out-running defenders on the perimeter for homerun plays, and catching the ball out of the backfield effectively to move the chains.
You’ve shown explosiveness throughout your career, including a 94-yard touchdown run and multiple 100-yard games. What’s your mindset when you see a crease or a defender in space?
I’ve always been taught to be patient to the hole and explode through it. That allows me to break more arm tackles and get to the second and third levels quicker, where I can use my speed. I try to out-leverage defenders and use their angles against them to be successful.
In 2023, you totaled over 1,400 scrimmage yards and 13 touchdowns. How do you approach being a complete back — someone who can run, catch, and protect?
The running back position has changed drastically. It’s not just ground and pound anymore. I knew I had to evolve with the game, improve my skill set, and understand how defenses want to attack me. Even if I’m not getting the ball, I need to do my job away from the play. If one guy is successful, we’re all successful.
After your 2022 season was cut short, you bounced back stronger in 2023. What was your mindset during that recovery process, and what did you learn from the experience?
That injury helped me respect the game more. I knew it would be a long road, but I trusted our athletic training staff to get me back better than before. It’s a tough injury to return from for an explosive player, and that fueled me to prove people wrong. It reminded me to cherish every moment — because any play could be your last.
You’ve been productive since your freshman year and have evolved into a leader. How has your role changed over the course of your career?
As a freshman, I had to rely on older guys to guide me. Over time, I grew into a leader who leads more by example than by voice. I always tried to let my playing style influence others in a positive way.
What’s one game or performance from your career that best represents who you are as a player?
I’d say the games against Minnesota State Mankato (Oct. 21, 2023) or University of Sioux Falls (Nov. 9, 2024). I showed that I could get tough yards, use my speed in the open field, and make plays catching the ball out of the backfield.
You’ve consistently averaged over 5.5 yards per carry every season. What do you attribute that level of efficiency to?
It’s a mix of vision, patience, and burst — but also physical and mental toughness. Football is violent and chaotic, so I needed to be tough to help my team win. I don’t lean on one part of my game over another. Everything just works together to slow the game down.
You’ve caught over 30 passes in a season and contributed as a receiver every year. How important is that part of your game?
Catching the ball has always come naturally to me. I focus a lot on route running and understanding concepts so I can be where I need to be. With the way the game has evolved, getting out in space and being reliable as a receiver is crucial to being a true three-down back.
What’s your weekly approach to film study?
I focus on the defensive line and linebackers — how they move, whether they stunt, if linebackers are downhill guys or more overhang players. But I try not to overanalyze. Playing running back is reactionary, and things change in real time.
You’ve had the opportunity to run behind different offensive lines. How do you build chemistry with your blockers?
I like big, fast linemen — that helps me see fits quicker and hit second and third levels with speed. I’ve always had natural chemistry with my O-line. We’d go out to eat and hang out outside of football — that off-field bond definitely helps.
You’ve played through injuries, playoff pressure, and high-leverage moments. How do you stay locked in mentally?
My teammates. Football isn’t an individual sport. If I give 110%, they will too — and that gives us a much greater chance to win.
Who’s had the biggest influence on your development?
Coach Jerry Olszewski. He believed in me out of high school when others didn’t and told me to stay true to myself. That chance changed everything. He helped instill toughness, humility, and a deeper love for the game in me.
What’s something that might not show up on the stat sheet, but that you take pride in?
My passion for the game. I hate losing more than I love winning, and I’ll play until the echo of the whistle on every snap.
When you’re not on the field or in the weight room, what keeps you grounded?
Going to church with my teammates. It helps me give credit where it’s due — Jesus has blessed me with the opportunity to play football, and I don’t take that for granted.
What message would you send to NFL teams considering bringing you in?
I’m ready to attack the process and be the best version of myself every day. I’m a versatile back who can run, catch, protect, and lead. I’ll show up, work hard, improve daily, and make those around me better.
Jarod Epperson isn’t just productive — he’s principled, polished, and built for the modern NFL backfield. With elite vision, breakaway ability, and the humility to do whatever it takes for the team, he’s more than a stat line. He’s a leader, a workhorse, and a complete back ready for the next level.
Akash Shankar is a Business Economics student at UCLA with a passion for football. He has worked with UCLA Football’s video operations team and is pursuing opportunities in coaching, recruiting, and player personnel.
Instagram: akashshankar_