Hayden’s Hotshots: My Top 100 RBs (74-26)
In this article:
Part two of my top 100 RBs, here we have the meat of the list. Guys here 100% can play in college, everything from Juco to even D1 potential. We have seniors coming off a big junior season, and juniors…
Access all of Prep Redzone
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingPart two of my top 100 RBs, here we have the meat of the list. Guys here 100% can play in college, everything from Juco to even D1 potential. We have seniors coming off a big junior season, and juniors looking to build on the massive success that they found last year. NSIC schools should be all over these guys, as I’m pleased to present Part 2 of My Top 100 RBs!
Edit: Last article I stated that Kaaleem Reiland Kaaleem Reiland 5'9" | 180 lbs | RB Kingsland | 2026 State MN (Kingsland) was the only sophomore to make this list. That is incorrect, both Noah Asuma Noah Asuma 6'0" | 190 lbs | RB Cherry | 2026 State MN (Cherry) and Lamari Brown Lamari Brown 5'9" | 170 lbs | RB Spring Lake Park | 2026 MN (Spring Lake Park) are in the top 100.
#74: Elijah Orton 5’7″ 145 lbs Spectrum 2024
2022 Stats: 630 Rushing Yards, 5.7 YPC, 6 TDs
The shifty Spectrum senior returns after a productive junior year. With the Sting’s QB and WR1 graduating, Orton may step into a bigger workload, especially early in the season. On film what pops is his tenacity. Orton is by no means the biggest guy on the field, but he starts both ways and is an absolute workhorse on offense. He powers through defenders with sheer determination and does a nice job of following his blockers. He puts his body on the line every play and his effort alone is worth a look from college coaches.
#73: Walker Hennen Walker Hennen 6'0" | 175 lbs | ATH Alexandria | 2024 MN 6′ 180 lbs Alexandria 2024
2022 Stats: 381 APY, 4 TOT
Hennen is the second part of the two-headed monster out of Alexandria’s backfield in 2023. He’s equally capable of catching passes as he is breaking off big gains in zone runs, and he should be an essential part of what I think will be a potent Alexandria offense. Hennen has consistently shown off the ability to make quick cuts, allowing him to break into open spaces. He powers through first contact and is an underrated back in goal-line situations.
#72: Jaquary Heidt 5’4″ 155 lbs Bloomington Kennedy 2024
2022 Stats: 467 Rushing Yards, 3.9 YPC, 3 TDs
Heidt is a shifty back who can turn any play into a big gain at the drop of a hat. He’s an explosive athlete and he effectively uses his unique size and speed to exploit mismatches at the second level. He’s a patient runner who waits for lanes to open up behind his linemen, before making a big cut and turning upfield. He also sees good work as a kick returner. Kennedy had a crowded backfield last year, but I think in 2023 Heidt will carry most of the workload.
#71: Elijah Johnson Elijah Johnson 5'9" | 190 lbs | RB Fairmont | 2025 State MN 5’9″ 190 lbs Fairmont 2025
2022 Stats: 378 Rushing Yards, 5.5 Rushing Yards, 1 TD
A junior who has exploded onto the recruiting scene, Johnson is a big-bodied RB whose development I’ve been following closely. And for good reason, this kid is highly explosive. Defenders bounce off of him like pinballs, and every time he gets the ball there’s a chance that he could break one off for six. He also boasts a filthy stiff arm, and he’s not scared to use it. More than a few defenders have found themselves in the dirt as a result of Johnson. Scouts would be wise to add him to the 2025 big boards.
#70: Kevon Johnson Kevon Johnson 5'10" | 175 lbs | RB Armstrong | 2025 State MN 5’10” 175 lbs Robbinsdale Armstrong 2025
2022 Stats: 399 Rushing Yards, 4.4 YPC, 4 TDs
Johnson had a breakout sophomore year as the RB2 for the Falcons and looks to step into a leading rusher role for his junior year. He boasts solid top-end speed and great awareness when the ball is in his hands. He can make fast jump cuts and does his best work outside the hashes. He’s fairly nimble as well, as he’s able to squeeze through tight gaps up the middle. I expect RBs to play a bigger role in the Falcon’s offense this year, and I think Johnson will see most of that workload.
#69: Carter Olson Carter Olson 5'10" | WR Wayzata | 2024 MN 5’10” 165 lbs Wayzata 2024
2022 Stats: 321 Rushing Yards, 3.8 YPC, 5 TDs
Olson saw solid work out of a crowded backfield as a junior, but I expect him to step into a more prominent RB2 role with the Trojans during his senior year. He’s proved himself as a talented Redzone back who runs much bigger than he is. He gives phenomenal effort whenever the ball hits his hands, and he doesn’t shy away from contact in the open field. He runs through tacklers and looks to be an essential part of what I think will be a dangerous Wayzata team.
#68: Sam Ripplinger Sam Ripplinger RB Lakeville North | 2025 MN 5’8″ 180 lbs Lakeville North 2025
2022 Stats: 369 Rushing Yards, 5.3 YPC, 3 TDs
Coming in at #68, we have the returning RB2 for Lakeville North, now junior, Sam Ripplinger Sam Ripplinger RB Lakeville North | 2025 MN . Ripplinger had a breakout sophomore year, coming from seemingly out of nowhere and making a name for himself on the Panther’s offense. He’s shown flashes of serious talent and looks to take over the helm next season. And he is fast, seriously fast. He reaches his top speed by the time he breaks the line of scrimmage, and is not afraid of a little contact. He uses his speed and lower center of gravity to bowl over defenders who stand in his place. I think Ripplinger is going to surprise a ton of people this year.
#67: Ty’Shawn Beane 5’10” 180 lbs John Marshall 2025
2022 Stats: 480 APY
A standout player on both sides of the ball, Beane breaks into our list today at #67. Despite having a thick and powerful frame, Beane retains the mobility and agility of a smaller back. He can make quick cuts in space and bounces back quickly from a big hit. He’s also shown the ability to run routes out of the backfield. He’s particularly adept at wheel routes but shows no issues lining up in the slot at times too. RJM had a down year last year, but expect Beane to continue to build on his sophomore success.
#66: Derrick Bechtholdt 5’10” 160 lbs Cannon Falls 2024
2022 Stats: 600 Rushing Yards, 1 TD, 13.4 YPC
Averaging an astounding 13.4 YPC as a junior, Derrick Bechtholdt returns looking to make a statement during his senior campaign. He’s an incredibly elusive runner, making the most of the dives he’s given by breaking them away for big gain after big gain. Bechtholdt slips out of tackles with ease and is always only a couple of steps away from a first-down run. He’s someone who I could see having a breakout senior year.
#65: JP Elsenpeter 5’7″ 160 lbs Pequot Lakes 2025
2022 Stats: 587 Rushing Yards, 5.6 YPC, 5 TDs
The second Pequot Lakes athlete on this list, Elsenpeter will assume a more traditional role in the backfield, rather than the utility position of his counterpart. Elsenpeter is an explosive athlete with solid vision who can make quick cuts upfield when needed. One thing that surprised me on film was how hard he ran, despite having a smaller frame Elsenpeter runs through linebackers and defensive backs with ease. I’m very high on Pequot Lakes this year, and Elsenpeter, and that offense is a big reason why.
#64: Jon Weber 5’10” 180 lbs Bloomington Jefferson 2024
2022 Stats: 472 Rushing Yards, 6.0 YPC, 3 TDs
Jefferson is an offense that I see a ton of potential in this year, and Weber is a big part of that—the well-built senior returns as a very efficient RB1 whose play style compliments Jefferson’s offense well. Weber has fantastic acceleration, often reaching his top speed by the time he breaks the line of scrimmage. He has a unique running style, often making unorthodox cuts at top speed. These cuts combined with a hard-nosed running style are why Weber finds himself so high on this list.
#63: Lamari Brown Lamari Brown 5'9" | 170 lbs | RB Spring Lake Park | 2026 MN 5’8″ 165 lbs Spring Lake Park 2026
2022 Stats: 439 Rushing Yards, 8.3 YPC, 5 TDs
It’s always impressive when a freshman sees playing time at a bigger program, it’s even more impressive when that freshman is a consistent varsity player and an RB3 in one of the most run-heavy systems in the state. Now with the two ahead of him graduating, now-sophomore Lamari Brown Lamari Brown 5'9" | 170 lbs | RB Spring Lake Park | 2026 MN has an opportunity to explode onto the recruiting scene in a way most athletes don’t. With quick feet, great speed, and a whole year of varsity football under his belt, the sky is the limit for Brown in 2023.
#62: Dylan Banks Dylan Banks 6'0" | 200 lbs | ATH Cannon Falls | 2024 State MN 6′ 200 lbs Cannon Falls 2024
2022 Stats: 500 Rushing Yards, 11 TDs, 10 YPC
Earning All-District Honors last season, Banks returns for his senior year with tons of D2 interest. With great speed, a 4.2 GPA, and a built frame, Banks looks to continue on that success he saw as a junior in 2023. Banks has some serious agility, especially for his fullback-esque frame. He’s an elite red-zone threat who averages a crazy 10 YPC. He also sees great work as a return man, where he makes use of great vision and patience as a runner. Don’t be surprised if Banks breaks out his senior year.
#61: Maverick Harper Maverick Harper 5'10" | 190 lbs | RB Centennial | 2024 State MN 5’10” 190 lbs Centennial 2024
2022 Stats: 381 Rushing Yards, 5.7 YPC, 3 TDs
A two-sport athlete (Football/Baseball) who has generated a lot of hype, the presumed Centennial RB1 enters his senior year with a ton of D2 interest. Harper is a do-it-all back for the Cougars, well-built, quick, and powerful. He never gives up on a play and runs his feet with enough vigor to carry defenders several yards or break their tackles. It is a rare occasion when he gets solo-tackled. Centennial has a lot of hype and a lot of talent this year, so keep your eyes out for Harper.
#60: Jeffrey Branson Jeffrey Branson 5'11" | 185 lbs | RB Farmington | 2024 State MN 5’10” 180 lbs Farmington 2024
2022 Stats: 401 Rushing Yards, 4.0 YPC, 1 TD
Well-built Farmington senior Jeffrey Branson Jeffrey Branson 5'11" | 185 lbs | RB Farmington | 2024 State MN finds his way onto our list after a great showing at our Stockup Showcase. I expect him to step into a much more prominent RB1 role where the team will look to both maximize his touches in the red zone and expand his work in the passing game. Branson sees most of his work as a single back in shotgun where he makes quick work of less agile defenders. Branson runs like a man on a mission and defenders better tackle low or they risk getting laid out by the Farmington back.
#59: Reid Davenport 6′ 185 lbs Holy Angels 2024
2022 Stats: 546 Rushing Yards, 6.1 YPC, 8 TDs
A valuable player on both sides of the ball, Davenport recently earned his first offer from St. Olaf. Second in team rushing yards only to his QB last season (who has since graduated), Davenport is primed for a monster senior year for the Stars. Despite his bigger 6′ frame, Davenport is exceptionally agile and is extremely difficult to tackle in the open field. He consistently can juke defenders out of their shoes and does a nice job of using his remarkable vision and stellar stiff arms to create problems for defenders.
Offers: St. Olaf
#58: Kesean Lipscomb 5’5″ 160 lbs White Bear Lake 2024
2022 Stats: 440 Rushing Yards, 6.4 YPC, 3 TDs
White Bear Lake had a resurgence season in 2022, finishing with a 7-3 season and their first playoff win since 2014. Lipscomb was forced to split reps with two other backs (who have since graduated), and without a returning QB, he’s primed for an increased workload. Lipscomb utilizes his shorter frame to create mismatches at the first and second levels. He sees a lot of success in the screen game as he’s able to hide behind bigger offensive linemen. He runs hard, doesn’t shy away from contact, and will lay his body on the line if he needs to make a block. Lipscomb has a lot of heart and I’m pumped to see him in an increased role in 2023.
#57: Jonah Bunke Jonah Bunke 5'8" | 165 lbs | LB Rushford-Peterson | 2025 State MN 5’7″ 180 lbs Rushford-Peterson 2025
2022 Stats: 836 APY, 7 TDs
A standout football and baseball player, Bunke is a small-town diamond in the rough athlete who needs more eyes on him ahead of his junior season. He is the owner of a skillset commonly seen among starters from 4-6A programs, with his thick frame and quick feet. He may not currently possess breakaway speed, but with exceptional balance and stunning grit, he should be climbing up recruiting boards quickly.
#56: Hunter MacGillivray Hunter MacGillivray 5'10" | 180 lbs | ATH Prior Lake | 2024 State MN 5’10” 175 lbs Prior Lake 2024
2022 Stats: 317 Rushing Yards, 5.5 YPC, 4 TDs
If you were to ask me to name some running backs who have generated a ton of hype before the 2023 season, MacGillivray would be on the shortlist. Fresh off of his first D2 offer, MacGillivray enters a crowded Lakers backfield eager to prove himself during his senior year. MacGillivray has a lot of raw attributes that are extremely eye-catching. A solid frame, true 4.4 speed, and an impressive summer in the weight room make me think that MacGillivray, who was already very talented, is ready for the next level. It’s tough to find a kid putting as much offseason work in as MacGillivray, so don’t be surprised when it translates to on-field play this fall.
Offers: SMSU, UW River-Falls
#55: Jay Winters 5’10” 170 lbs Lakeville South 2024
2022 Stats: 346 Rushing Yards, 6.2 YPC, 5 TDs
Winters enters a phenomenal situation for his senior year. He is the presumed RB1/RB2 of a historically dominant run offense and is primed for a big year. Although his skillset typically would lend itself best to a WR/DB, Winters shows no issues translating that to work in the backfield. He’s got 4.5 speed and the versatility to do nearly anything a coach could want from him. He’s shown everything from fluid hip movement and quick feet, to solid ball tracking, to dogged determination to never give up on a play. Winters is a massive 2024 sleeper and people need to wake up to his abilities.
#54: Bo Bokman Bo Bokman 5'7" | 175 lbs | ATH Lakeville South | 2025 State MN 5’7″ 170 lbs Lakeville South 2025
2022 Stats: 773 APY, 6 TDs
A transfer from Bethlehem Academy, Bokman enters his junior year now in one of the most proficient-run schemes in the state. He was a stud on both sides of the ball, and all eyes will soon be on him as he transfers to one of the biggest programs in the state. I think his skillset should translate nicely to his new offense. Lakeville South’s offense is best suited for backs who are quick and shifty, and that description fits Bokman to a T. With great vision and fast feet, I expect Bokman to fit in seamlessly with the Cougar’s offense.
#53: Liam Rodgers 5’10” 180 lbs Orono 2024
2022 Stats: 596 Rushing Yards, 5.2 YPC, 5 TDs
I’m stunned how the RB1 for a dang good Orono team is going this under the radar. Rodgers is a lean ground-and-pound kind of back. He has a tremendous sense of balance and stunning vision. On more than a couple of occasions, you can see Rodgers fighting tooth and nail for extra yards, often throwing off tacklers and someone staying upright. If you don’t wrap up and tackle low against Rodgers, he’s sure to make you pay.
#52: Connor Klemmensen Connor Klemmensen 5'10" | 190 lbs | ATH Edina | 2025 State MN 5’11” 190 lbs Southwest 2025
2022 Stats: 900 APY, 5 TDs
Another two-way starter, Klemmensen put me on to his film early in the year, and I was quickly impressed. He has 4.7 speed and a desire to win. He has a quick first step, and he can turn on the jets after he clears the line of scrimmage. Southwest will often utilize him as a wideout as well, he’s a good route runner who can maximize his YAC. He doesn’t stop moving his feet upon contact and will often drag a defender a few extra yards. Overall Klemmensen is a talented and well-rounded athlete who could use some more hype.
#51: Braden Schulz 5’11” 180 lbs Faribault 2025
2022 Stats: 800 APY, 8 TDs
Another two-sport standout (Football/Basketball), Schulz is the returning do-it-all RB1 for the Falcons. He’s fast and hard-hitting, a fatal combination for opposing defenders. I am extremely partial to physical backs, and Schulz lays the wood. With a quick first step, Schulz hits the hole at 100 mph and doesn’t slow down he sees a different-colored jersey. When discussing Minnesota runningbacks, Schulz is not talked about nearly enough.
#50: Luke Pool Luke Pool ATH Zimmerman | 2024 MN 5’8″ 190 lbs Zimmerman 2024
2022 Stats: 789 Rushing Yards, 6.1 YPC, 5 TDs
Although he fits into the more traditional fullback role, I would be doing both Pool and collegiate coaches a disservice by not including him on this list. Although he did play more of a blocking role last season, his explosiveness jumped out at me on film. He runs much faster than you’d expect for a 190 lb fullback. My favorite part of his film however is hands down his blocking. Pool lays kids out, and I just know he’s everyone’s first choice to run behind.
#49: Cole Wangen Cole Wangen 5'11" | 210 lbs | RB Blooming Prairie | 2025 State MN 5’11” 200 lbs Blooming Prairie 2025
2022 Stats: 4 GP, 490 APY, 9 TOT
Wangen put on an absolute clinic in his first four games of his sophomore season. Before it was cut short by a broken collarbone, has was the teams leading rusher and 3rd leading tackler. He’s an honor-roll student with a nose for the endzone, a must-have for college coaches. His film opens with him returning a kickoff for an 80-yard TD, a play that perfectly sets the tone for the rest of his tape. I don’t know what they’re putting in the water in Blooming Prairie, but kids Wangen’s size should not be that explosive. You heard it here first, he’s due for a monster junior year.
#48: Shaun Walrath 6’2″ 190 lbs Sauk Rapids-Rice 2024
2022 Stats: 747 APY, 4 TOT
Walrath is the definition of an athlete. He can play anywhere and I mean anywhere on the field. Last season he saw consistent work at RB, WR, QB, DB, and MLB. He’s a returning All-District player and team captain heading into his senior year, and I think it’s fair to expect things from the three-sport standout (Football/Basketball/Track). He’s a capable kick returner as well. Everything pops for this kid on film, but aside from his unmatched versatility, I’m a big fan of his speed and agility. Walrath is a Swiss army knife on steroids, and he has NSIC potential written all over him.
#47: Kalvin Eull Kalvin Eull 5'11" | 195 lbs | RB Rogers | 2025 State MN 5’10” 190 lbs Rogers 2025
2022 Stats: 507 Rushing Yards, 6.2 YPC, 4 TDs
Amassing 500 yards as an RB2 is never easy, but Eull made it look like it was. As he now steps into the varsity starter role, I can easily see a 1k+ season in his near future. With 4.6 40 speed, Eull fits the mold that Rogers has tried to build over the last decade. A hard-nosed, thick, and aggressive back who is comfortable carrying the ball 25-30 times a game. Defenders bounce off of him and with surprising agility and quick cuts, Eull has proved that he’s more than a power back. Now entering his junior season, Eull has an incredibly high ceiling with a dangerous Royals team.
#46: Jasen Jansen Jasen Jansen 6'2" | 220 lbs | RB Renville County West | 2024 State MN 6’2″ 220 lbs Renville County West 2024
2022 Stats: 1240 APY, 13 TOT
If you want to talk about a diamond in the rough, let me put you on to Jasen Jansen Jasen Jansen 6'2" | 220 lbs | RB Renville County West | 2024 State MN . He’s built like a D1 linebacker and does absolutely everything for RCW. He’ll line up at RB or TE, and show out at both. He’s faster than a large majority of his competition, and he’s significantly bigger than them. He’ll run through gang tackles with ease and with the additional 15 pounds he’s put on this offseason, he’s only going to be more dangerous. Jansen is another 9-man star who needs more attention.
#45: Grady Brunn 5’10” 180 lbs St. Francis 2025
2022 Stats: 667 Rushing Yards, 5.7 YPC, 7 TDs
After an impressive sophomore campaign, the two-sport (Football/Basketball) athlete returns for his junior year as the projected RB1 for the Fighting Saints. Brunn earned All-District HM Honors last season and looks to build on that success in 2023. It is not an exaggeration to say that he may have the best ball-carrier vision on this list. The second a hole or a cutback lane opens up, Brunn knows about it and hits it at 100 mph. He covers up the football well and can tiptoe through tacklers with ease. It’ll be interesting to see how Brunn and the Saints do this season under new leadership.
#44: Leo Siekmann Leo Siekmann 6'0" | 190 lbs | RB Jordan | 2024 MN 6′ 185 lbs Jordan 2024
2022 Stats: 8 GP, 759 APY, 10 TOT
Siekmann is a Prep stud. He won 6th place at the 2023 State Wrestling Tournament at 170 lbs, went to state in the Polevault, and continues to impress as a dangerous RB. Siekmann is a swift and powerful back who has a nose for the endzone. He weaves through defenders with ease, before laying someone out and getting six. He also shows receiving upside, as he’s proven he can run routes out of the backfield. I like Jordan in 2023, and Siekmann is a big part of that.
#43: Luke Scheuer Luke Scheuer 6'0" | 190 lbs | LB Byron | 2024 State MN 6′ 190 lbs Byron 2024
2022 Stats: 5 GP, 600 APY, 6 TOT
Although he’s primarily known for his defensive prowess, Scheuer stepped up big time last season when Byron’s starting RB went down with an injury. In the 5 games where he saw time at RB, he averaged a crazy 120 all-purpose yards per game. Sometimes speed doesn’t translate well to the football field, running on a track and running in pads and a helmet are two different things. Not an issue for Scheuer. He plays with such incredible and contagious energy that just makes you smile and laugh when you’re watching his film. The fact that he’s unoffered right now is crazy to me.
#42: Noah Asuma Noah Asuma 6'0" | 190 lbs | RB Cherry | 2026 State MN 5’11” 165 lbs Cherry 2026
2022 Stats: 1000 APY, 15 TOT
The younger brother of Gophers MBB commit Isaac Asuma, Noah burst onto the scene with an incredible freshman year that saw him put up some crazy numbers. A three-sport standout (Football/Basketball/Baseball), Noah looks to be following in the steps of his older brother. You can legitimately line him up at either WR or RB, he’s just that dominant at both. As a wideout, he has a crazy get-off and near-elite ball tracking. If he lines up in the backfield he’ll use his phenomenal speed and break out for a big gain. It would not shock me if he started to draw P5’s attention by his senior year.
#41: Lukas Kuehl Lukas Kuehl 6'0" | 185 lbs | RB Litchfield | 2024 State MN 6′ 180 lbs Litchfield 2024
2022 Stats: 1100 APY, 8 TOT
A 1000+ rusher and an All-District team member in 2022, Kuehl returns searching for that same level of success in 2023. Lining up deep in the backfield, Kuehl is an explosive runner who often beats defenders to the edge. He’s got good speed and does a nice job of getting north and south when most backs would continue to get outside of the hashes. He’s got a good frame at 6′ 180 lbs and will consistently break arm tackles. Between that and how dangerous he is in open space, the Litchfield back poses a serious threat to defenses.
#40: Cooper Crandall 5’7″ 155 lbs International Falls 2025
2022 Stats: 1450 APY, 4 TOT
The Broncos sophomore had a breakout year in 2023, and I fully believe that he has the potential to develop into a special prospect. He may be a little undersized right now, but his speed, vision, and heart are all top-notch. Despite his smaller frame, he is extremely difficult to bring down. He will fight tooth and nail through defenders and that sheer will and determination sees him break quite a few tackles. Crandall is a playmaker, simply put and if he continues on this path good things will come.
#39: Ethan Massman 5’9″ 185 lbs Anoka 2025
2022 Stats: 674 APY, 4 TOT
Massman stepped up big time when Anoka’s RB1 got hurt last season, and he began to thrive in their pass-heavy offense. He’s shown a heavy pass-catching upside at times, and although he is a little light on film, you can see flashes of brilliance. He runs routes like an experienced receiver and will beat any linebacker in man coverage. I think Anoka will have a dominant offense in 2023 and I hope Massman is a part of that.
#38: Logan Stedman 6′ 180 lbs Rockford 2024
2022 Stats: 948 Rushing Yards, 9 TDs
Fresh off his first offer from Bemidji State, Stedman continues to prove why he’s one of the top backs in the state. Stedman is a two-way player (RB/DB), and a two-sport athlete (Football/Track). He earned Team Captain honors this season and runs a 4.6 40. His film shows a well-built athlete with great speed and tremendous patience as a runner. He has an elite stutter-step that throws defenders through a loop, and he’ll hit that typically before a massive run. I like Rockford this year and their high-ceiling offense is why.
Offers: Bemidji State
#37: Omar Madkour 6′ 205 lbs Wayzata 2024
2022 Stats: 515 Rushing Yards, 5 TDs
The Trojan’s projected RB1, Madkour had a stellar showing last season as a rotational back but looks to increase his workload and name recognition this fall. He’s got a solid frame on him at 6′ 205 lbs and is fairly quick for his size. He sees most of his work out of the gun and consistently creates problems for defenders in open space both with his speed and his agility. Madkour is not afraid of contact though, he is more than willing to bowl a defender over or hit him with a nasty stiff arm in the face if they get in his way.
#36: Levi Eiter Levi Eiter 6'0" | 195 lbs | ATH Prior Lake | 2025 State MN 6′ 195 lbs Prior Lake 2025
2022 Stats: 468 Rushing Yards, 7.1 YPC, 4 TDs
Prior Lake has one of the best 1-2 combos in all of Minnesota football this year and that would be Levi Eiter Levi Eiter 6'0" | 195 lbs | ATH Prior Lake | 2025 State MN and Hunter MacGillivray Hunter MacGillivray 5'10" | 180 lbs | ATH Prior Lake | 2024 State MN . With a fantastic 7.1 YPC and blazing 4.3 speed, Eiter is one of the highest upside-backs in the state. He’s an absolute demon in open space, able to break off plays the instant he gets to the second level. He’s also built like a truck. Eiter has utilized the phenomenal Prior Lake strength and conditioning program to his benefit, and he’s been able to fill out his 6′ build with a lot of muscle.
#35: Monte Gillman Monte Gillman 5'6" | 165 lbs | RB Dassel-Cokato | 2024 State MN 5’6″ 165 lbs Dassel-Cokato
2022 Stats: 180 RY, 2 TDs
If you want to talk about pure potential, Gillman is a top-10 prospect. The only thing that I would like to see out of him is more in-season production, but he’s been stuck behind back-to-back 2000+ yard rushers. He CONSISTENTLY runs 4.3s-4.4s. Blazing speed doesn’t do him justice, as he’s equally quick and has fantastic lateral movement as well. He also benches an astounding 270 lbs, and I did the math, which is over 1.5 times his body weight. It would not surprise me at all if he ended his senior year with multiple D1 offers.
Offers: Minot State
#34: Arthur Russell Jr. Arthur Russell Jr. 5'10" | 180 lbs | ATH Champlin Park | 2024 State MN 5’10” 180 lbs Champlin Park 2024
2022 Stats: 674 APY, 5 TOT
Russell was forced to split carries last year, but with the other running back since graduating, he gets to take over the helm as a true RB1. He’s a returning All-District team member, as well as a captain in the upcoming season, and with 4.5 speed, it’s no wonder that hype has started to build around the CP prospect. He turns on the jets in open space and does a good job of navigating the trenches. His receiving ability is also a very underrated piece of his game. With an increased workload in 2023, I could easily see Russell hit the 800+ yard mark.
Offers: Milikin
#33: Ben Holte Ben Holte 5'11" | 180 lbs | RB Shakopee | 2024 MN 5’11” 180 lbs Shakopee 2024
2022 Stats: 378 Rushing Yards, 3 TDs
Fresh off of his first offer from D2 Minot State, Holte will step into the RB1 role of a run-heavy offense his senior year. And on a team that saw last year’s RB1 amass well over 1000 yards, I don’t think it’s unrealistic to believe that Holte will hit that mark. He consistently runs 4.4 40s and he runs hard. He saw a majority of his work last season on toss plays, and while that may not show off his versatility, it showcases his ability to consistently beat defenders to the edge and work upfield. I have high hopes for Holte in 2023.
Offers: Minot State
#32: Sam Young 5’6″ 150 lbs Stillwater 2024
2022 Stats: 878 APY, 6 TDs
On a team that has become known for its potent passing attack, Young stands out as a reliable ball carrier. He may not be the biggest guy, but he gives great effort when in pass pro. When he’s running the ball, Young uses his smaller stature to his advantage by being a patient runner before exploding at the second level. He too has seen his fair share of work in the passing game, amassing 200 receiving yards last season. He is always a danger to defenders in the open field and should not be ignored as a successful returning starter on a very good 6A team.
#31: Isaac Walker Isaac Walker RB East Ridge | 2024 MN 6’1″ 190 lbs East Ridge 2024
2022 Stats: 750 APY, 6 TOT
Walker enters his senior year in one of the well-rounded offenses in the state. East Ridge has a dangerous QB/WR duo, and Walker adds the curveball of a tough run game too. He follows his blockers well and consistently gets to the second level, all while still possessing receiving upside. He’s the kind of guy who can consistently get you 5-6 yards per catch, and then extend the play on his feet an additional 5-6 yards. When he runs he does a good job of getting upfield quickly and typically doesn’t waste too much time scrambling to the outside. All in all, Walker provides another aspect of the Raptor’s offense that will haunt D-Coordinators.
#30: John Warpinski John Warpinski 5'10" | 190 lbs | RB Edina | 2024 State MN 5’10” 190 lbs Edina 2024
2022 Stats: 869 APY, 7 TOT
Edina enters a unique offensive situation this year. They graduated their stud QB, as well as a few tough WRs. One extremely consistent part of their offense returns, however, and that’s senior RB John Warpinski John Warpinski 5'10" | 190 lbs | RB Edina | 2024 State MN . When I started to compile this list, a ton of his teammates sent me his film, gassing him up. I gotta say I was not disappointed. He has a ball-catching upside but sees most of his work on the ground. He’s comfortable running both between the tackles and outside of them, with quick cuts and great vision, the Hornets will always have a reliable back in Warpinski.
#29: Griffin Babolian 5’11” 205 lbs Fergus Falls 2024
2022 Stats: 955 Rushing Yards, 6.2 YPC, 9 TDs
A three-sport athlete and a two-way starter who earned All-District RB honors last season, Babolian enters his senior year with a bit of a chip on his shoulder. He had a stellar junior year and looks to only build on the success that he’s found over the last two years on varsity. On film, his lightning-fast cuts and stellar effort are what jumps out to me. His ability to stop and start on a dime is uncanny. He runs through gang tackles and makes it look easy. The Fergus Falls stud needs more looks.
#28: Josh Diggs Josh Diggs 6'0" | 205 lbs | RB Park Center | 2025 State MN 6′ 205 lbs Park Center 2025
2022 Stats: 926 Rushing Yards, 5.5 YPC, 9 TDs
Josh Diggs Josh Diggs 6'0" | 205 lbs | RB Park Center | 2025 State MN is built like an absolute tank. The junior stands at 6′ 205 and is yolked. Don’t let his size fool you though, he’s a nimble son of a gun. He can tiptoe through defenders as if he was 50 pounds lighter. His speed is crazy for someone of his size, with a 4.6 40 he can outrun the defenders that he can’t run through. He’s a guy that teams are forced to tackle low, otherwise, he’s due to breakout for a big run. Park Center has a talented young core, and Diggs is the star of it.
#27: Roman Johnson Roman Johnson 6'0" | 200 lbs | RB Minnetonka | 2024 State MN 6′ 200 lbs Minnetonka 2024
2022 Stats: 820 APY, 7 TOT
A true dual-threat RB, Johnson, and the talented Skippers offense look to be one of the more potent scoring teams in the state ahead of next season. He’s a returning All-District RB, team offensive MVP, and team captain. Johnson is another back that can be lined up out wide and makes catches that make you wonder “How did an RB just do this?” He can run a variety of routes and also sees solid work in the screen game. He runs hard and has 4.6 40 speed so all I can do is sit and wonder how he doesn’t have an offer.
#26 Damon Green Damon Green 5'11" | 190 lbs | RB Eastview | 2024 State MN 5’11” 190 lbs Eastview 2024
2022 Stats: 820 Rushing Yards, 4.8 YPC, 6 TDs
A 2x All-District team member, Green enters his senior year fresh off two NSIC offers and he holds serious D1 potential. 4.6 speed, great vision, and a ton of grit are what make Green the heart and soul of the Lightning offense. He will carry defenders across the field or just as easily someone’s ankles. He’s even seen success in the passing game running wheel routes or short screens. Green plays through the whistle and gives stellar effort all game. If you want a stud workhorse, look no further than Green.
Offers: Mankato State, Sioux Falls