Patraw’s Picks: Minnesota RB C/O 2026 is Loaded with Talent

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Minnesota's Class of 2026 running backs are emerging as a beacon of talent and potential. As Friday night lights illuminate the fields across the state, these running backs are carving their names with every swift cut, powerful stride, and end zone celebration. A new generation of stars is on the rise, poised to redefine expectations and capture the eyes of recruiters. In this article, we look into the dynamic Class of 2026's running backs and all their potential.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["482343"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"Swanson distinguishes himself with a multifaceted skill set. Possessing an imposing physical stature, Swanson excels in power running between the tackles, leveraging his size to break tackles and gain positive yardage. His versatility extends to the edges, where his speed allows him to outpace defenders. Swanson's football IQ is noteworthy, evidenced by his vision, patience in navigating the line of scrimmage, and ability to set up his blockers. Combining awareness with toughness and contact balance, Swanson emerges as a standout recruit, poised to make a massive impact over the next few years.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-655d1f4f6b48d"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["923832"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"Turner is an exceptional athlete with an eye-popping skill set on film. His standout quality lies in his decision-making on the field, consistently selecting the proper running lanes. Running with resilience, Turner is a challenging force to bring down, often breaking through arm tackles easily. His understanding of what's before him shines as he chooses when to exploit his impressive speed. Once in the open field, Turner becomes a true speedster, effortlessly getting to the edge and leaving defenders in the dust. As a speedy downhill runner, his ability to make quick decisions and capitalize on his athleticism positions him as a running back to keep an eye on throughout his high school career.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-655d1f4f6b4f2"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["924343"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"Anderson's standout feature is his great size, providing him with a natural advantage as a forceful downhill runner. His ability to execute quick, sharp cuts showcases remarkable agility for an athlete of his stature, allowing him to navigate through defenses with finesse. Anderson has enough speed, complemented by his determination to keep his legs moving through contact, making him a persistent and tough runner to bring down. A testament to his overall strength is the evident development of his upper and lower body, contributing to his effectiveness as a powerful presence in Elk River's backfield. Anderson's combination of size, agility, and strength positions him as a promising prospect with the potential to make a major impact for the Elks next season and in the future.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-655d1f4f6b54a"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["923851"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"Frost embodies the essence of a powerful and tough runner. His ability between-the-tackles is evident, consistently churning his legs to gain those hard-fought extra yards. Frost's knack for selecting the correct open hole intensifies his impact, regularly turning routine plays into substantial gains. His tenacity is highlighted by the difficulty defenders face when attempting to bring him down, especially when he keeps his legs in motion. His versatility stretches beyond ball-carrying duties. His ability to block on the edge signifies a well-rounded skill set, contributing to his success and the team's overall offensive efficiency. Frost's combination of toughness, vision, and blocking prowess positions him as a multifaceted asset, proving to be a force in Eden Prarie's backfield for the coming years.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-655d1f4f6b59f"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["207810"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"Washington became a standout running back in the Class of 2026 this season and possesses a dynamic set of skills that sets him apart. Washington's ability to break arm tackles showcases his strength and determination, making him a resilient runner out of the backfield. His speed is a notable asset, allowing him to outrun defenders and quickly get to the edge, often running away from any would-be tacklers. Patience defines Washington's running style as he waits for his blocks to set up, showing his astute understanding of the offensive scheme. Notably, Washington's low center of gravity and exceptional contact balance make him a challenge to bring down, even for defenders attempting to go low. His ability to exploit bad angles further solidifies his reputation as a running back capable of turning potential tackles into missed opportunities for the opposition. Washington's combination of power, speed, and elusiveness positions him as a promising prospect with the potential to leave a lasting impact on the Class of 2026 and beyond.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-655d1f4f6b5f8"} /-->