Standout Running Backs from the Class of 2021

In this week of the recruiting season I’m highlighting the workhorses on offense. Each of these seniors showcase a different skill set coming out of the backfield and they impressed in their final season. Here’s a look at five undecided running backs that college programs would be lucky to have. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="35525" first="Jonathan" last="Wright"]</strong> – Conway Springs, 6’1”, 185, RB Wright made the most out his carriers his senior season. He only had 82 on the year, but what he did with them was impressive. Wright rushed for 903 yards and 15 rushing touchdowns, while averaging 11 yards per carry. As soon as you turn on his film it’s easy to see how he averaged 11 yards per rush. He doesn’t go down without breaking at least a few tackles first. Wright explodes through holes and he can out run defenders once he’s in the open field. He also showed flashes of his receiving skills. He has the frame to run routes over the middle, and he has the height to win jumps balls. So far he’s received some JUCO interest, but more coaches need to take notice of this young man. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="35410" first="Hunter" last="Niemann"]</strong> – Maize South, 5’11”, 175, RB Niemann’s senior year was unfortunately cut short due to injury, but he was on pace for a great season. Through three games he rushed for 375 yards, while averaging 7.6 yards per carry, and scored eight touchdowns. Niemann is an explosive back. He puts his foot in the ground and gets up-field in a hurry. It’s tough for defenders to catch him once he breaks through the second level of the defense. He has the ability to run between the tackles as well. Niemann was receiving interest from schools, and hopefully he will continue too. I believe once he’s fully health, any program would be lucky to add him to their offense. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="35517" first="Jalen" last="Barlow"]</strong> – Hutchison, 5’11”, 180, RB Being on an 8-2 team while in a running back by committee offensive approach, it can be easy to fly under the radar. But Barlow’s tape sticks out. He’s a tough runner that can break tackles, and shows good balance after getting hit. Once he breaks through the second level of the defense, he has the speed to take off. What impressed me most about Barlow was his blocking. Being in a triple option style offense he was tasked with run blocking, and this was where he showed his physicality. He also showed good awareness while in pass protection. He could be a gem for a college program. Coaches just need to give this young man a chance. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="49758" first="Eli" last="Rowland"]</strong> – Andale, 5’11”, 175, RB Rowland was one of the stars this season for the 3A State Champion Andale Indians. He went on to rush for 1,586 yards, while averaging 7.8 yards per carry and scoring 32 total touchdowns. His film showcases his versatility. Rushing wise, he’s a patient runner, as he lets plays develop and then reads his blocks to find holes. He’s strong enough to break through first contact too. Coming out of the backfield he shows good receiving skills. Rowland runs clean routes and can catch the ball well. His film and numbers should gain more recruiter’s attention. Coaches could definitely use his versatility at the next level. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="35379" first="Joshua" last="Sanders"]</strong> – Maize, 5’7”, 180, RB Sanders is an elite athlete coming out of Maize High School. In his senior year he showed why he’s a member of the 5A All-State team. Sanders rushed for 2,482 yards and 31 touchdowns. This young man just makes defenders miss. Whether it be with a jump cut, spin move, or a juke. He shows good vision allowing him to find holes and cutback lanes. His frame makes it hard for defenders to tackle him because of how low he can get, and because of how strong he is. Once he has the ball in his hands, he makes plays happen. After a standout season like this, he should be on multiple recruiter’s radar.