2025 Rankings: New Additions: QB/RB
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The 2025 Rankings are out; if you have not had a look, check them out here. This article is a rundown of some of the top Quarterbacks and Running Backs who are making their debut in the 2025 Rankings. These…
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Continue ReadingThe 2025 Rankings are out; if you have not had a look, check them out here. This article is a rundown of some of the top Quarterbacks and Running Backs who are making their debut in the 2025 Rankings. These guys all had an impact last season, some in limited roles, and some are their team’s top talent. Either way, the tape is promising, and these are some of the hottest up-and-comers in this class.
Devon Gonzalez Devon Gonzalez 5’10” | 210 lbs | RB Glen Cove | 2025 State NY plays on both sides of the ball but as a running back has the size, speed, and power that translates to the next level. Gonzalez quickly became on of the top RBs in the state as the season went on and as Holy Trinity moves up to AAA in the CHSFL Gonzalez and his size/power will be very important throughout the season.
Ihsaan Alozie Ihsaan Alozie 5’9″ | 170 lbs | RB Shenendehowa | 2025 State NY was one of the most dangerous athletes with the ball in his hands in the state. Alozie has really good vision and the breakaway speed to turn any play into a touchdown. Alozie also has some versatility lining up as a wildcat QB, in the slot, and as a returner. Alozie is one of the most dangerous offensive weapons in this class and is a top RB in the state.
Highlights
Deshawn Barr-Mackins Deshawn Barr-Mackins 5’7″ | 175 lbs | RB Erasmus Hall | 2025 State NY was behind a couple of really talented RBs/ATHs at Erasmus Hall last season but still had some really solid tape and performances. Barr-Mackins is smaller but shifty and has really good burst and quickness through the LOS. Barr-Mackins has good balance and does a good job of bouncing off tackle attempts and maintaining his speed.
Zavry Ward Zavry Ward 6’0″ | 185 lbs | QB Queensbury | 2025 State NY is the highest ranking QB addition to the rankings and the Queensbury quarterback has one of th ebest deep balls in the class. His anticipation and ball placement on throws down the field make him one of the better quarterback prospects in the class.
Thomas Costarelli Thomas Costarelli 5’10” | 150 lbs | QB East Islip | 2025 State NY is a really solid dual threat quarterback prospect out of East Islip who debuts in our rankings after a strong sophmore season. Costarelli has a smooth release and the left does a good job of driving the ball down the field with velocity. As a runner, Costarelli has quickness and speed to be a factor on the ground.
Out of McKinley in Buffalo, Tyrone Hughes Jr Tyrone Hughes Jr RB McKinley | 2025 State NY is one of the best backs in the state. Not many running backs had the production that Hughes had last season and he is a top back in the state when it comes to making guys miss in space. Hughes has some really nasty cuts on tape and knows how to make guys miss while maintaining speed upfield.
Tyler Hermanns Tyler Hermanns 6’1″ | 170 lbs | QB Shoreham-Wading River | 2025 State NY debuts on this list without a full season starting under his belt. Hermanns, the incoming starter for Shoreham Wading River has poise and patience in the pocket and arm talent wise is one of the best prospects in the state. In limited varsity film Hermanns showcases these qualities and some athleticism moving in the pocket or even as a runner past the LOS. A prospect to keep an eye on through his Junior year.
Joey Gaston Joey Gaston 5’9″ | 170 lbs | QB Iona Prep | 2025 State NY , former QB/ATH for St. Joseph Regional in New Jersey is now at Iona Prep. Gaston is limited in size but is easily one of the best athletes at the quarterback position group in the state. Gaston has a big arm but where he really excels is as a runner. Gaston has great speed and quickness and knows how to find running lanes after dropping back. Gaston is a true dual threat and the type of player who can create something out of nothing on a consistent basis.
Highlights
Vaughdrea Johnson Vaughdrea Johnson 6’4″ | 180 lbs | QB Baldwin | 2025 State NY has some of the most intriguing measurables at the quarterback position in this class and the Baldwin signal caller has some serious dual threat ability. As a runner, Johnson has long strides and good speed and defenders really struggle to bring him down. As a passer, Johnson has solid arm talent and good anticipation. A top prospect with a really high ceiling at the quarterback position.
Jaquan Johnson Jaquan Johnson 5’8″ | 165 lbs | RB North Rockland | 2025 State NY is a RB/ATH/WR but for now is listed as a RB as it projects has his potential spot at the next level. Johnson has good speed and quickness and just knows how to make guys miss in space. Johnson is shift and knows when to take runs inside or outside and can work both in space and in traffic. Johnson has some really sneaky burst to his game and is often able to outrun guys after they take what looks to be good angles on tape.