In a draft class filled with flashy names and high-profile resumes, DJ Giddens might fly under the radar — but not for long
His time at Kansas State showcased a player who does all the little things right and has the athleticism to compete at the highest level.
NFL teams looking for a smart, versatile, and explosive back would be wise to give Giddens a serious look. He may not start his career as a headline-maker, but don’t be surprised if he becomes a dependable contributor in the years to come.
What makes DJ Giddens’ story so compelling is not just his athletic talent, but the way he has stayed true to his roots.
In an era where many athletes seek the spotlight, Giddens remains focused on his goals and the people who helped him along the way.
Whether it’s his family in Junction City, his coaches at Kansas State, or the fans who have followed his journey, Giddens carries their support with pride.
He serves as a reminder that greatness doesn’t always come from the biggest cities or the most glamorous programs. Sometimes, it comes from places like Junction City—where grit, heart, and determination pave the road to success.
Also Read: Could Matthew Stafford Follow Russell Wilson’s Path? NFL Analyst Sparks Controversy
Table of Contents
DJ Giddens: From Kansas State Standout to NFL Draft Hopeful
The Emergence of a Wildcat Workhorse
DJ Giddens’ football journey is a testament to resilience, hard work, and raw talent.1
Hailing from Kansas, Giddens joined the Kansas State Wildcats in 2022, entering a program rich in football tradition and known for producing tough, well-rounded players.
He quickly climbed the ranks within the team and, by the end of his collegiate career, left an undeniable mark on the Wildcats’ offense.
Over three seasons, Giddens developed into a consistent and explosive weapon out of the backfield. He wasn’t just a running back; he became a centerpiece of Kansas State’s offensive identity, capable of breaking big plays or grinding out tough yardage when needed.
His balance of speed, power, and vision made him a nightmare for defenders and a favorite among Wildcats fans.
Statistically Dominant: Giddens’ Collegiate Legacy
Giddens appeared in 39 games across three seasons, rushing for a total of 3,087 yards on 517 carries, averaging an impressive 6.0 yards per carry.
His 23 rushing touchdowns reflect not only his ability to reach the end zone but also his dependability in high-pressure situations.
He wasn’t just a ground-and-pound back either — Giddens contributed significantly to the passing game, tallying 58 receptions for 679 yards and four receiving touchdowns.
In 2024, his standout performance earned him Second-Team All-Big 12 honors, a testament to his growing reputation as one of the conference’s top offensive talents.
He consistently displayed an ability to make plays at all levels of the defense — from breaking off 50-yard runs to making clutch catches out of the backfield.
DJ Giddens: Declaring for the NFL
A Bold Move with Big Dreams
On December 15, 2024, Giddens officially announced his decision to enter the 2025 NFL Draft, using his Instagram account (@dj_giddens22) to share the news with fans and scouts alike.2
It was a move many expected after his stellar junior campaign, but it still carried weight — declaring early for the NFL Draft is always a gamble.
However, for Giddens, the timing felt right. With three productive college seasons under his belt and his stock on the rise, he positioned himself for the next big leap in his football journey.
Eye-Catching Combine Performance
At the NFL Scouting Combine, DJ Giddens made sure to showcase his athletic prowess. He clocked a 4.43-second 40-yard dash, highlighting his breakaway speed.
Even more impressive was his 1.53-second 10-yard split, a key indicator of burst and acceleration — crucial traits for running backs looking to hit the hole quickly.
His 39.5-inch vertical jump further demonstrated his lower-body explosiveness, something that translates into powerful cuts and contact balance on the field.
NFL evaluators took notice, with Giddens earning a Next Gen Stats score of 77, labeled as “good” by the NFL’s official site.
While his prospect grade of 5.94 suggests he may project as an average backup or special teamer initially, the Combine confirmed what many already knew — Giddens has the tools to surprise people at the next level.
Strengths: What Sets Giddens Apart
DJ Giddens possesses a unique blend of physical and mental traits that make him an intriguing NFL prospect:
-
Vision and Patience: Giddens consistently demonstrates the ability to read blocks and wait for lanes to develop, an underrated skill for NFL success.
-
Explosiveness: His quick burst and elite acceleration allow him to turn small openings into big gains.
-
Pass-Catching Ability: Giddens is comfortable lining up out wide or catching screens and short routes, making him a versatile third-down option.
-
Durability and Workload: Over 500 carries in three seasons is a lot, but Giddens held up well, showing he can be a workhorse back.
-
Football IQ: Coaches often praised his preparation, adaptability, and ability to pick up complex offensive schemes.
Areas for Improvement
Despite his many strengths, Giddens has areas he needs to refine to thrive at the professional level:
-
Pass Protection: While capable, he’ll need to improve his blocking technique to handle NFL blitz packages.
-
Lateral Agility: Giddens relies more on straight-line burst than sudden jukes, which may limit him against faster NFL defenses.
-
Ball Security: As with many high-usage backs, fumbles can become an issue — scouts will want to see cleaner technique in traffic.
-
Special Teams Role: As a projected backup initially, he’ll need to carve out a role on special teams to secure a roster spot.
DJ Giddens: Hometown and Family Background
DJ Giddens was born on August 26, 2003, in Junction City, Kansas. Growing up in this tight-knit community, he was surrounded by support and encouragement.3
His parents, David and Monique Giddens, played a crucial role in nurturing his dreams from a young age. They were present at his games, supported him through the highs and lows of competition, and instilled in him the values of perseverance and humility.
The influence of his parents cannot be overstated. In interviews and public appearances, DJ often credits them with helping him stay grounded and focused, even as he began to attract attention on the national stage.
Nestled in the heart of Kansas, Junction City is more than just a small town—it’s the proud hometown of DJ Giddens, one of college football’s promising young talents.
Known for its strong community values and a commitment to high school athletics, Junction City has produced several athletes over the years, but DJ Giddens stands out as one of its brightest stars.
A High School Phenom in the Making
Giddens attended Junction City High School, a place that not only honed his athletic skills but also shaped his character. Under the guidance of Head Coach Randall Zimmerman, Giddens developed into a standout running back, catching the attention of college scouts and football fans across the state.
His commitment to hard work and discipline on and off the field became evident early on.
DJ Giddens had a prolific high school football career that set the stage for his success at the collegiate level.
His stats speak for themselves: over the course of his high school years, he rushed for an impressive 1,912 yards and scored 34 touchdowns. These numbers alone would be enough to grab attention, but his senior year is where Giddens truly solidified his legacy.
In his final season at Junction City High, Giddens rushed for 1,255 yards and scored 30 touchdowns, making it one of the most productive seasons in school history.
His 2020 season ranked fifth on Junction City’s all-time single-season rushing list, a remarkable achievement given the school’s competitive football history.
One of his most iconic performances came in a game against Wichita East, where he scored five touchdowns—a feat only accomplished two other times in the school’s history.
This performance not only showcased his athletic ability but also his capacity to rise to the occasion when his team needed him most.
Also Read: Felix Anudike-Uzomah (NFL): Meet His Parents, Siblings, Family and Paid Partnership
DJ Giddens: Nationality and Identity
DJ Giddens is proudly American, as recognized by official sources including the NFL’s official website.
But beyond nationality, his identity is deeply tied to the Midwest values of hard work, resilience, and community.
As a homegrown talent from Junction City, he carries the pride of Kansas with him every time he steps on the field.
The Transition to College Football
After a successful high school career, DJ Giddens made the transition to Kansas State University, a school with a rich football tradition.
It was a natural fit for Giddens, who wanted to remain close to home while continuing his athletic and academic pursuits. The opportunity to represent his home state at the collegiate level added an extra layer of motivation.
At Kansas State, Giddens quickly made his presence felt. His combination of speed, strength, and vision made him a valuable asset in the Wildcats’ backfield.
Coaches praised his work ethic and team-first mentality, while fans appreciated his explosive plays and consistent performances.
Though the competition at the college level is fierce, Giddens has proven that he belongs. He continues to develop his game, learning from experienced teammates and coaches, and refining the skills that made him a standout in high school.
DJ Giddens: Playing Style and Strengths
DJ Giddens is known for his north-south running style, combining raw power with deceptive quickness.
He has an uncanny ability to find holes in the defense and capitalize on broken tackles. His low center of gravity and strong legs make him difficult to bring down, while his football IQ allows him to read defenses and make smart decisions on the field.
What sets Giddens apart, however, is his versatility. He’s not just a powerful runner—he can also contribute in the passing game, making him a dual-threat out of the backfield.
Whether it’s catching a screen pass or picking up blitzes in pass protection, Giddens brings a complete skill set to the offense.
Character and Leadership
Beyond his physical abilities, DJ Giddens is known for his character and leadership. Teammates describe him as humble, hardworking, and always willing to put in the extra effort.
Coaches have praised his attitude in the locker room, often pointing to him as an example for younger players.
In interviews, Giddens comes across as thoughtful and grounded, never taking success for granted. He speaks highly of his teammates and gives credit to his coaches, showing a maturity well beyond his years.
This blend of humility and confidence makes him not only a fan favorite but also a respected figure within the team.
View this post on Instagram
Community Connection
Giddens’ impact extends beyond the football field. He remains deeply connected to Junction City, often returning to support local events and speak to aspiring athletes.
His success story serves as an inspiration to young players in the area, proving that with dedication and support, dreams can be realized—even from a small town in Kansas.
He has participated in youth football camps, spoken at schools, and used his platform to give back to the community that helped shape him.
His journey from Junction City to Kansas State is a testament to the power of community support and personal determination.
Future Aspirations and NFL Potential
As DJ Giddens continues to develop at Kansas State, his future in football looks increasingly bright. Scouts and analysts have begun to take notice of his performance, and there is growing speculation about his NFL potential.
While he remains focused on the present and committed to his college team, the possibility of a professional career is certainly on the horizon.
If he continues on his current trajectory, Giddens could find himself on the radar of NFL teams looking for a powerful, all-purpose back with a high football IQ.
His background, work ethic, and performance all suggest he has what it takes to make the leap to the next level.
Also Read: Myles Garrett Trade Only Possible with Deshaun Watson: Speculated by NFL Analyst
