
Boise State RB Waiting in the Wings Behind Record-Breaker Ashton Jeanty
David Word is a promising Boise State running back whose 2024–2025 development has been defined by patience and versatility rather than headline rushing stats, as he operated primarily as a backup and change-of-pace option behind national stat-leader Ashton Jeanty (1,893 yards, 3 TDs in 10 games in 2024) [1]. Word’s differentiators include his high-intensity practice habits, reliable pass-catching ability out of the backfield, and smart film study that lets him read defenses quickly—traits coaches praise even when he isn’t the primary ball-carrier. While he hasn’t posted a breakout statistical season yet, his injury history is clean, and his personality is described as coachable and team-first. If you’re building a roster for depth, versatility, and future upside, Word is a strong fit; if you need an immediate 1,000-yard rusher, he’s not yet that player—but he’s the kind of RB who could explode once given the keys.