Ground Game: DFW Class of 2025 Running Backs

The DFW area's running back class of 2025 has created quite a buzz with their exceptional performances this past season. The evidence of state titles in 2023 speaks volumes about the overall talent pool in the DFW Metroplex. What sets these running backs apart is not just their speed and agility as runners, but their versatility on the field.   These athletes are not mere ground-gainers; they possess a multifaceted skill set that extends beyond traditional running back roles. Their ability to skillfully catch passes out of the backfield adds a dynamic element to their game, making them true dual-threats. Whether carrying the ball or receiving it, they showcase a level of proficiency that sets them apart as elite players in their class.   As the spotlight shines on these ballers, it becomes evident that they are poised to set the bar extremely high in 2024. With a combination of speed, agility, and the capability to make house calls, these running backs are not only contributing to their team's success but also redefining the expectations for their position. We spotlight several running backs who have made an impact on the football scene in the DFW area.     [player_tooltip player_id='286371' first='Deondrae' last='Riden Jr.'] | Desoto High School   Deondrae has captured the attention of college football teams from around the country with his exceptional skills and achievements. His stout and compact frame provides a solid foundation for his powerful running style, making him a force to be reckoned with between the tackles.   Riden Jr.'s football IQ and instinctive plays on the field set him apart, demonstrating an elite vision, coupled with his explosive burst, allows him to navigate through defenses effectively. His ability to turn any down and distance into a scoring opportunity showcases his versatility and playmaking capability.   The fact that he has secured two state championships at Desoto underlines not only his individual prowess but also his contribution to Desoto's success. This kind of winning experience can be invaluable at the collegiate level.   Riden Jr. has received offers from prestigious college football programs such as Texas, Oklahoma, Oregon, Ohio State, Ole Miss, USC, and Baylor, which attests to his recognition on a national scale. The interest from these top-tier programs underscores his potential to make a significant impact when he has the football in his hands. Riden Jr. is no doubt one of the top rushers in the DFW area, as well as the state of Texas.   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/riden_jr/status/1704988697936933029?s=20 </div></figure>     [player_tooltip player_id='918688' first='Michael' last='Turner Jr.'] | Richland high School   Michael boasts a distinctive playing style, with a versatility to his game that enables him to be a threat with the football in his hands. His lean and sleek build, combined with a powerful lower half, gives him a unique physical advantage on the field.   Turner Jr.'s ability to run with power, maintaining excellent pad level for optimal performance are traits that compliment his game. His quick first step through the hole, coupled with the capability to shift gears swiftly, showcases his agility and versatility as a runner. In the open field, he displays impressive shifty moves, making him a challenging player to defend against.   What sets Turner Jr. apart is his multi-dimensional skill set, extending to his proficiency in the passing game. With his strong, reliable hands, he becomes a threat as a receiver, adding an extra layer of complexity to his overall game.   His junior year performance speaks volumes, rushing for over 1,600 yards with 23 touchdowns and contributing significantly to Richland's deep playoff run. College football programs have taken notice, with offers from schools like Oklahoma State, Kansas, Houston, SMU, and Baylor, indicating widespread recognition of his talent and potential impact at the collegiate level. Turner Jr. seems poised to continue making waves in the DFW area in 2024 and he has left no doubt he is on the top players to watch in the class of 2025.   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/MichaelTurnerj/status/1719134070964154818?s=20 </div></figure>     [player_tooltip player_id='286374' first='Riley' last='Wormley'] | Southlake Carroll High School   Riley brings a dynamic skill set to the field. His physical running style is complemented by a great burst and elusive moves in the open field, making him a challenging player to tackle.   Wormley's standout cutback ability and quick feet, which allow him to make sharp cuts without deceleration, contribute to his agility and playmaking prowess. His speed is a key asset, enabling him to break into big runs, while his burst helps him separate at the second level, creating opportunities for substantial gains. Wormley rushed for over 900 yards and 19 touchdowns in a successful junior season.   The fact that he has garnered offers from notable programs such as Oregon, Baylor, UNT, Kansas, Arizona State, TCU, and Texas, show that he has caught the attention of collegiate teams from around the country. Wormley returns for his senior campaign as one of the marquee rushers in the DFW area and the state of Texas.   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/RileyWormley/status/1726043973930627482?s=20 </div></figure>     [player_tooltip player_id='691172' first='Cornelius' last='Warren III'] | North Crowley High School   Cornelius stands out as an elusive runner with phone booth quickness, making him a challenge for defenders in close quarters. His exceptional vision in the open field adds a strategic edge to his play, allowing him to navigate through defenses effectively.   Beyond his running abilities, Warren III is a multifaceted threat, showcasing strength and reliable hands that make him impactful in the passing game. His ability to cut back against the grain without sacrificing speed adds another layer to his dynamic skill set.   The diverse range of offers from schools like Toledo, Houston, Miami, UNT, Texas State, Utah, UTSA, and Oregon reflects the widespread recognition of Warren III's talent. His unique blend of agility, vision, and receiving skills positions him as a promising prospect in the class of 2025. He has established himself as one the top rushers in the Metroplex, as well as in the state of Texas.   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/cwthree1/status/1732043914599866674?s=20 </div></figure>

The DFW area's running back class of 2025 has created quite a buzz with their exceptional performances this past season. The evidence of state titles in 2023 speaks volumes about the overall talent pool in the DFW Metroplex. What sets these running backs apart is not just their speed and agility as runners, but their versatility on the field.