Prospect Watch: 2024 Northern California Running Backs

Photo: PierrePierreProductions

Paul Gregorian February 24, 2022 @ 05:38 PM

[player_tooltip player_id="273578" first="Asante" last="Carter"], Saint Marys-Stockton HS Carter is one of the top backs across the valley, regardless of class. Playing for one of the most respected programs across the region and state, he runs behind his pads with a low pad level and natural forward lean through traffic while showing good speed around the edge and strong contact balance. In traffic, he shows good vision and cutback ability in tight windows while able to hit a third level gear if needed, but excels in the short area with his natural burst and lateral movement abilities.   [player_tooltip player_id="147758" first="Tajir" last="Golden"], McClymonds HS Golden is a true burner and one of the most fun and explosive backs to watch across Northern California. On tape, he is very explosive through the first level and has tremendous third level speed while able to force defenders to take bad angles and make big plays in the open field and break ankle and arm tackles. In the short area, he has elite quickness and good vision in traffic while possessing cutback ability and waiting for his blocks to develop. He can also easily gain the edge with a natural burst and speed. A true burner, he should see offers and interest roll in through his Junior season.   [player_tooltip player_id="115421" first="Danny" last="Niu"], Serra HS Niu is another top back on a top team with good power and strength through the LOS and has more of a physical running style. Playing both sides of the ball, he projects as a linebacker at the next level but offers some nice position versatility with his natural athleticism and solid movement abilities, especially for his size. A natural runner, he is fluid in space while showing good body control in the open field and contact balance in traffic. Overall, Niu is a very tough and physical player that will benefit a college program.   [player_tooltip player_id="273576" first="Herschel" last="Turner"], Freedom HS Turner is poised for a huge Junior season and is one of the most dynamic and explosive weapons across the Bay Area. Possessing elite return ability and open field speed, he continuously makes big plays in the open field and shows tremendous body control and natural ball skills when playing in the slot. Another prospect that offers position versatility at the next level due to his natural ball skills and fluid hips in space, he is at-least a FCS guy that should see FBS and FCS interest come his way sooner rather than later.