Kyle Monangai has everything it takes to be a successful NFL running back. His production at Rutgers, combined with his elite vision, pass protection skills, and ball security, make him one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2025 draft class
With big goals and an unwavering determination, Monangai is poised to make an immediate impact in the NFL.
Teams looking for a dependable, high-IQ running back should have him high on their draft boards. Whether it’s winning Rookie of the Year or contributing to a Super Bowl contender, Monangai’s future in the league looks incredibly bright.
As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on where he lands. But one thing is certain—whichever team selects Kyle Monangai will be getting a player with the talent and mindset to succeed at the highest level.
While the draft process is unpredictable, Monangai has all the tools necessary to thrive at the next level.
His ability to run with vision and patience, protect the quarterback, secure the football, and contribute in multiple ways makes him an attractive prospect for many teams.
His mentality and drive to succeed will also play a crucial role in his development. The transition from college to the NFL can be challenging, but Monangai’s work ethic and focus suggest that he is ready for the challenge.
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Kyle Monangai: Rising Star in the 2025 NFL Draft
Kyle Monangai has emerged as one of the top running back prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft.1
His journey from an overlooked high school player to one of the most productive backs in the Big Ten is a testament to his work ethic, determination, and skill set.
With back-to-back stellar seasons at Rutgers, Monangai has proven himself against elite competition, solidifying his place as a top-125 overall prospect in this year’s draft class.
His decision to stay at Rutgers for another season rather than enter the 2024 NFL Draft or transfer through the NIL market showcased his loyalty and belief in himself.
In an exclusive interview with Sportskeeda’s Tony Pauline and Adam Hulse, Monangai reflected on his path to the NFL, why he chose Rutgers, and what drives him to succeed at the highest level.
Jersey📍❤️ pic.twitter.com/bsvhioP4uQ
— Kyle Monangai (@kylemonangai) October 11, 2024
A Dominant Force in the Big Ten
The Big Ten Conference is known for producing top-tier defensive talent, making it one of the most challenging places for running backs to shine. Despite this, Monangai flourished.
Over his final two seasons at Rutgers, he rushed for 2,541 yards and 21 touchdowns, leading the Big Ten in rushing yards in 2023 and total carries in 2024.
His breakout 2023 campaign saw him nearly triple his yardage total from the previous season, proving he could handle a heavy workload and excel against tough competition.
This performance put him on the radar of NFL scouts and solidified his reputation as a workhorse back.
Kyle Monangai: Choosing Rutgers
A Decision Rooted in Loyalty
Monangai had several scholarship offers coming out of high school, but ultimately, he chose Rutgers.2
The decision was about more than just football—it was about loyalty and the chance to prove himself in a highly competitive environment.
“Rutgers was the school that gave me a chance,” Monangai shared. “They could have given me an offer when I was 16 or 17, but they didn’t want me then. The one program that really took a chance on me—I’m not just going to jump ship because of a couple of dollar signs.”
His words highlight the importance of commitment, a quality that NFL teams will undoubtedly value as they evaluate him as a potential draft pick.
The Opportunity to Leave: NIL and the 2024 NFL Draft
After his incredible 2023 season, Monangai had multiple options for his future.
He could have declared for the 2024 NFL Draft, where he likely would have been a mid-round pick, or entered the transfer portal, where lucrative NIL deals awaited. However, he made the surprising decision to stay at Rutgers.
“It just made sense to come back,” Monangai explained. “It just felt like the best thing to do for my team and for my career.”
His decision reflects his confidence in his ability to improve and his belief that another dominant season would increase his draft stock. It was a calculated risk, but it paid off.
If he receives an invitation to the Senior Bowl or other pre-draft showcases, he’ll have a chance to impress scouts and executives in person.
The Combine will be crucial for Monangai. If he can post a solid 40-yard dash time and perform well in agility drills, his stock could rise significantly.
Rutgers’ Pro Day will allow him to display his skills in a controlled environment. Additionally, teams may invite him for private workouts, where he can demonstrate his versatility.
Kyle Monangai: Strengths as a Running Back
As Monangai prepares for the NFL, he brings several key strengths that make him an attractive prospect:
1. Power and Toughness
Monangai is a physical runner who thrives on contact. His ability to break tackles and gain extra yards makes him a valuable asset in short-yardage and goal-line situations.
2. Vision and Patience
One of the most critical skills for a running back is vision, and Monangai has it in abundance. He understands blocking schemes well and patiently waits for holes to develop before exploding through them.
3. Durability and Work Ethic
Leading the Big Ten in total carries in 2024 proves that Monangai can handle a heavy workload. His conditioning and durability will be major assets as he transitions to the professional level.
4. Leadership and Loyalty
His commitment to Rutgers, despite better financial opportunities elsewhere, speaks to his character. Teams looking for players with leadership qualities will take notice of his decision-making and work ethic.
NFL Draft Projection and Potential Team Fits
Monangai is projected as a Day 2 or early Day 3 draft pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
While he may not be in the first-round conversation due to the way the NFL values running backs, he is considered one of the most well-rounded backs available.
Potential Landing Spots:
- New England Patriots: The Patriots have historically valued tough, smart runners who can contribute in multiple ways. Monangai’s skill set aligns well with their needs.
- Chicago Bears: With their commitment to the run game, the Bears could use Monangai as a physical complement to their backfield.
- Baltimore Ravens: Baltimore loves powerful, downhill runners, and Monangai’s style fits perfectly with their offensive philosophy.
- Dallas Cowboys: With Tony Pollard’s future uncertain, Dallas could use a tough runner like Monangai to provide balance to their offense.
Areas for Improvement
Monangai is not a burner. While he has great power and vision, he lacks elite breakaway speed. Improving his top-end speed could make him an even more dangerous threat.
In today’s NFL, running backs are expected to contribute in the passing game. Monangai hasn’t been heavily utilized as a receiver, so refining his route running and hands could help his draft stock.
NFL coaches place a premium on running backs who can protect the quarterback. While Monangai has shown flashes of solid pass blocking, this is an area where he can improve.
Kyle Monangai’s journey from high school prospect to Big Ten standout is a story of perseverance and dedication.
His decision to stay at Rutgers, despite other opportunities, shows his loyalty and confidence in his abilities.
As he prepares for the 2025 NFL Draft, Monangai has positioned himself as one of the most intriguing running back prospects. With his combination of power, vision, and durability, he has the tools to succeed at the next level.
Wherever he lands, one thing is certain—Kyle Monangai is ready to make an impact in the NFL.
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Kyle Monangai Discusses His Outlook for the 2025 NFL Season
The 2025 NFL Draft will be filled with talented prospects, and one of the most intriguing running backs is Kyle Monangai.3
The Rutgers standout has showcased his ability as a workhorse running back, demonstrating elite vision, toughness, and efficiency.
With an impressive college career behind him, Monangai now has his sights set on making an immediate impact at the next level.
In an exclusive interview with Sportskeeda, Monangai discussed his key strengths, the NFL legends who inspired him, and his lofty goals for his rookie season.
His blend of talent, work ethic, and confidence makes him a compelling prospect for teams in need of a dynamic running back.
A Proven Workhorse in College
Monangai put together an outstanding college career, particularly in his final two seasons, where he consistently produced at a high level.
Over those two years, he averaged over 100 rushing yards per game while maintaining an efficient 5+ yards per carry. His ability to handle a heavy workload was evident, as he racked up a staggering 520 total touches in that span.
This kind of durability and reliability is highly coveted in the NFL, especially at a position where injuries and workload management play a crucial role.
Monangai’s ability to take on a high number of carries while maintaining efficiency speaks to his physical conditioning and football IQ.
Elite Vision and Field Awareness
When asked about his greatest strengths, Monangai emphasized his ability to see the field and make quick decisions.
“My natural vision, I just see things very well,” Monangai said. “It’s my ability to see the game field around me, my ability to pass-protect, understanding pass protection concepts, taking care of my quarterback and taking care of the football. I never put the football on the ground.”
Vision is one of the most critical traits for an elite running back, allowing them to find the right lanes, anticipate defenders, and make the most of every carry. Monangai’s ability to quickly diagnose defensive schemes and react accordingly makes him a valuable asset in both the running and passing game.
Pass Protection and Ball Security: The Unsung Skills
Many running backs excel as pure runners but struggle in other areas, particularly pass protection. However, Monangai takes pride in his ability to protect the quarterback.
Pass protection is a skill that often determines how much playing time a rookie running back gets early in their career.
If a back can’t be trusted to pick up blitzes and keep the quarterback safe, they are unlikely to see the field consistently.
Monangai’s awareness and discipline in this area will give him a significant advantage when transitioning to the NFL.
Additionally, he emphasized his commitment to ball security. Turnovers are one of the biggest momentum killers in football, and a running back who consistently holds onto the ball earns the trust of his coaches and teammates.
Monangai’s track record of protecting the football will only add to his appeal for NFL teams.
Kyle Monangai: Inspired by NFL Legends
Growing up, Monangai looked up to some of the greatest running backs in NFL history, particularly Reggie Bush and Adrian Peterson.
Bush was known for his electrifying speed, agility, and ability to make defenders miss in open space. Peterson, on the other hand, was a dominant, physical runner with incredible power and balance.
By admiring and studying these legends, Monangai has developed a playing style that incorporates elements of both finesse and toughness.
This diverse skill set allows him to be effective in multiple roles, whether it’s breaking off long runs, grinding out tough yards, or contributing as a receiver out of the backfield.
Setting Big Goals for His Rookie Season
Monangai isn’t just content with making it to the NFL—he wants to make a major impact right away. His goals for his rookie season are ambitious, and he’s setting the bar high.
“Rookie of the Year would be great,” Monangai said. “Even bigger would be playing a role and contributing to help my team win a Super Bowl.”
Winning Offensive Rookie of the Year is no small feat, but with his skill set and work ethic, Monangai has a legitimate chance to be in the conversation.
Running backs have historically had strong showings in the award race, and if he lands in the right system, he could put up the kind of numbers that attract serious attention.
Of course, his ultimate goal is team success. While individual awards are great, Monangai is focused on helping his team compete for a championship. His selfless mindset and team-first attitude will undoubtedly resonate with NFL coaches and front offices.
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