2023 Running Backs Ready to Rise

As the calendar flips to May and the 2022 season draws a little bit closer, we continue the process of evaluating some of the prospects in the Class of 2023 who have the ability to improve upon their current standing in the class rankings. A few days ago, we highlighted some of the running backs who fit into that category. Today, we will break down five more elite backfield prospects who are sure to turn heads in their senior seasons. [player_tooltip player_id="185240" first="Eli" last="Carter"], 5’10, 180 pounds, Tipton A multi-dimensional threat, [player_tooltip player_id="185240" first="Eli" last="Carter"] keeps defenses on their toes. As a junior, Carter had 176 carries, amassing an incredible 1,607 yards and 28 touchdowns. Carter can put the opposing defense under pressure with his receiving ability, as well. Last year, he caught 17 passes for 226 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Defensively, Carter consistently made plays. He compiled 40 total tackles with one-tackle-for-loss, two interceptions and four passes defensed. As if that was not enough, Carter contributed on special teams. He punted eight times for a net total of 240 yards. He also returned five kickoffs this past season. [player_tooltip player_id="185241" first="Ty’Shaun" last="Grundy"], 6’1, 180 pounds, South Bend Washington [player_tooltip player_id="185241" first="Ty’Shaun" last="Grundy"] is a running back with great size- something that he uses to his advantage with it being very difficult to tackle him. Grundy is a back who can run behind his pads, break tackles and fall forward to pick up extra yards. Grundy can push the pile, making him a great option in short yardage and goal-to-go situations. On the other side of the ball, Grundy is an impactful defensive end. He has great speed, and he turns the corner very quickly when getting around the offensive tackle. [player_tooltip player_id="185241" first="Ty’Shaun" last="Grundy"] can be a tone-setter for any team. [player_tooltip player_id="185516" first="Cheyenne" last="Allen"], 6’1, 170 pounds, North Judson-San Pierre Similar to Grundy, [player_tooltip player_id="185516" first="Cheyenne" last="Allen"] has good size, and he can be a load for defenders to deal with. Allen is a rugged, physical player who can pile up yards after contact. He regularly pushes the pile, meaning that more than one defender will have to get there to make the tackle. Allen has good hands, and he can be a viable option as a receiver. Allen also plays free safety, kicker and kickoff returner. Last year, Allen kicked off and punted three times each. As a returner, he posted 572 yards on 17 kickoff returns to go along with for punt returns where he accumulated 126 yards. [player_tooltip player_id="185521" first="Camajay" last="Terrell"], 5’8, 165 pounds, Gary West Side [player_tooltip player_id="185521" first="Camajay" last="Terrell"] is a speedy and elusive running back who can give the offense a spark at times when they desperately need it. Terrell has the pace to leave defenders chasing his shadow. But when needed, Terrell embraces the physical nature of the game. As a junior, Terrell exhibited tremendous durability with his 169 carries. Terrell had eight games where he eclipsed the 100-yard mark on the ground. In total, Terrell racked up an impressive 1,628 rushing yards with 19 touchdowns. Through the air, he added a trio of receptions for 49 yards and a touchdown. [player_tooltip player_id="185521" first="Camajay" last="Terrell"] is a playmaker who can be the focal point of the offense. [player_tooltip player_id="185251" first="Christian" last="McDonald"], 5’11, 170 pounds, Owen Valley [player_tooltip player_id="185251" first="Christian" last="McDonald"] is a versatile threat for the Owen Valley offense. McDonald is a twitchy runner who changes directions quickly, getting would-be tacklers off-balance. On top of that, he can serve as the quarterback in the wildcat package. A year ago, McDonald surpassed 1,500 rushing yards with an astounding 28 touchdowns. As a receiver, McDonald contributed seven receptions for 113 yards and two scores. [player_tooltip player_id="185251" first="Christian" last="McDonald"] is on the cusp of a big season.