PRZ Next Midwest Showcase: Running Back Preview
Prep Redzone Next is holding the second, of three, one-day showcases this upcoming Sunday, April 24th, at Commisioners Park in Naperville, Illinois. The camp is designed for middle school athletes to compete in combine testing, individual position work and competitive one on work. Over 100 athletes are slated to come and compete.
Here’s a preview of just some of the Running Backs who have registered.
Tomarion Steward out of Michigan is a prospect that is no stranger to the Prep RedZone Next spotlight. He’s another young back that looks like he’s varsity ready right now at 6-foot and 204 pounds. Could very easily have come and played Linebacker and nobody would have batted an eye. Claims a 300-pound squad, 365-pound dead lift and 235-pound bench press.
One of the most promising prospects in attendance will be 2026 Phillip Goodrich Jr. of Illinois. Goodrich Jr., who will be at Carmel Catholic in the fall, is built like an action figure and passes the eye test right away. At 5-foot-11 and 182 pounds, he’s absolutely rocked up and excels on both sides of the ball. I expect big things out of him at the showcase.
Ohio’s Parker Johnson is another eighth grader to watch at the showcase. Billed at 5-foot-8 and 172 pounds, he accounted for 1,207 yards and 20 touchdowns this past season. On film he’s not a burner, but rather a back that rumbles down hill and wears defenses out. Seemingly gets better with the more touches he gets.
Another Ohio prospect we’re excited to see is Will Wilson. A native of Trotwood (an hour North of Cincinnati) could be the fastest Running Back signed up for the showcase. Also a standout in Track, Wilson has the ability to leave defenders in the dust rather quickly once he gets going. Also has exception hands out of the backfield. Really looking forward to seeing him.
Rounding out the Ohio contingency at the Running Back position is Shahn Alston of Painesville. Alston is listed at 5-foot-10 and 185 pounds on social media and looks to be every bit of that mass. He’s very well put together for being just a 2026 prospect and is already squatting North of 450 pounds.
One of the top Indiana prospects in the state, Fa’Rel Carter will also be taking the field at the showcase. At 5-foot-10 and 150 pounds the potential is through the roof for Carter. Honestly, probably could list him as an Athlete with his ability to pay multiple positions and still be the best kid on the field. He’s super slippery with the ball in his hands and can run away from people with ease, using his long strides.