#TN2025 Rankings Breakdown: Running Backs

<!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">One of the deepest offensive positions within our rankings and the #TN2025 class are the running backs. Several names mentioned below have the upside to become featured backs on the next level along with some under the radar guys that are more than talented. </h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>The Top Ten</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["219401"],"_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":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-665766b5111dd"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Morrow has the upside to become elite on the next level and collegiate coaches think so too as it shows in offers from the likes of Alabama, Auburn, Georgia, Oregon, Stanford, Tennessee, Texas, Texas A&amp;M and many others. The Red Devils ball carrier has an excellent combination of power and speed along with some of the best sudden, small space burst I've seen in many years of scouting. The great thing about Morrow too is that he has low tread on tires as he has shared snaps while playing on defense these past few years, so the state's top running back has plenty of juice yet to be seen. If he continues to develop and learn the game as he goes along and he remains healthy, Morrow has the kind of abilities that can be showcased on the NFL stage one day.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- - - - - </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["497421"],"_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":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-665766b511244"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">It doesn't matter what level of high school ball this guy runs on, he is legit with his best football ahead of him. Groves brings nice size to the field along with breakaway speed that plays well on the Power Four and his offer list dictates that. This Mid-TN product is a big back that can run through the middle or bounce it to the outside and create separation due to his speed. Groves is also an excellent receiver out of the backfield that has yet to put that trait on full display but trust me, the ability is there. He, like everybody else, has to continue working on his craft while staying at it in the weight room but top level potential resides with the Indians star running back.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- - - - - </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1058887"],"_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":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-665766b51128a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">A newcomer to the state last season, Mills-Knight had a solid junior campaign with the Red Raiders but could be in-store for a huge senior year as the feature back within a potent Baylor offense. Holding offers from the likes of Alabama, Auburn, Florida, Michigan, Ohio St, Tennessee, Wisconsin and many others, Mills-Knight has positioned himself as a national recruit and a strong contender for D2-Class AAA Mr. Football. He may have to share the spotlight a little bit this Fall with several other high caliber playmakers around him but Mills-Knight should be the focal point this year as he is the type of back that can lead his Red Raiders team back into title contention.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- - - - - </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["219387"],"_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":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-665766b5112cb"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">One of the fastest backs from our in-state running back class, Morris is an elite ball carrier that has the juice to take the ball from point “A” to point “B” within a split second, making him one of the more dangerous offensive weapons in the state. Committed a few months ago to USC, Morris has continued to see his recruitment spike up with a multitude of big time programs getting involved, eyeing him as their possible future at running back. The Patriots senior back is a well balanced guy that of course has the speed to break loose but also sports enough strength to break through tackles and continue pushing forward. Morris is a clear cut contender as well this Fall for Mr. Football and a talent that can lead the Oakland program back into championship status.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- - - - - </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1002741"],"_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":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-665766b51130a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Johnson may be a sleeper to some but to these scouting eyes, he is one of the better offensive talents in the state and someone that can develop into a three down back in the college ranks. The Panthers senior ball carrier is a violent runner that has breakaway speed. His combination of power and speed is some of the best you will find out of the #TN2025 running back class. Johnson could also develop into a nice receiving option out of the backfield with more development. His recruitment has taken off a bit with the addition of several D1 and FCS offers but this is a Power Four back in the waiting that I think can boost himself into that status with a breakout senior year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- - - - -</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><a href="https://prepredzone.com/tennessee/rankings/2025-rankings/?position=RB">#TN2025 Running Back Rankings</a></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["219449"],"_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":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-665766b51134b"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Athletic and elusive with an initial quick burst, Hill is one of the more explosive backs we have in this year's class but also a versatile talent that could line up in the slot at receiver as well. The Eagles senior offensive weapon has the kind of speed that can take a short gain into a long run and change the aspect of a game within an instant. If this year's running back class wasn't so deep, Hill would sit higher within the position rankings but whoever lands this guy will be getting a dynamic playmaker that has yet to take on a full load in the backfield. Plenty of juice resides inside this Mid-Tennessee prospect as I definitely see his best days ahead of him, which should be on the Power Four level.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- - - - - </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["258658"],"_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":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-665766b51138a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">The Big Red could have one of the sneakiest, good offenses in the state this Fall and if they do, Davis will be at the forefront of those efforts. A powerful back with shifty feet, Davis is the first true “big back” ranked inside our Top Ten that has plenty of juice in tires to put together his best high school season yet. His running style makes things tough for defenders as they have a hard time grasping onto Davis and bringing him down. His combination of power and speed presents problems for opposing teams and the faster and more elusive he gets, Davis becomes an even more appealing prospect for Power Four coaches. Summer camp season and his Fall football year will go a long way towards pushing the narrative forward and catapulting Davis into bigger opportunities.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- - - - -</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["361227"],"_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":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-665766b5113c9"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">It's been a big off-season so far for this East Tennessee talent as Davis has boosted his stock in a major way, pushing himself into the Top Ten of our new senior rankings while placing himself on the D1 map. Sporting nice size and speed, Davis brings a variety of strong traits to the playing field that translates well to the college game. The Rebels senior back has excellent straight line speed and vision along with enough power to break through tackles and keep pushing forward. Davis is also one of the best receiving backs in the state, which to me pushes him ahead of many others at his position when it comes to D1 potential. College offers have arrived but I think with a big senior year, Davis could start carving out space for a chance to play on the biggest stages of college football.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- - - - - </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["301396"],"_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":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-665766b511408"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">A powerful guy with a well built body and frame, Patterson, Jr has a chance to step up in a big way this Fall by becoming the Mustangs go-to offensive guy and someone that could rise up in our next updated rankings. Early on in the recruiting process, this Nashville area ball carrier added several offers but things have been quiet for a while, however I think things can pick up with strong performances in summer camps as well as a breakout senior year. Patterson, Jr is a strong guy that can be your short yardage back but he can also run, providing enough speed to become a problem in open space. He looks to continue sharing carries for the Mustangs but Patterson, Jr should be the featured back with a sneaky shot at contending for Mr. Football.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- - - - - </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["219347"],"_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":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-665766b511447"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Sitting at the tenth spot within our senior running back rankings, Crudup is a well balanced ball carrier that has a nice combination of size, speed and pass catching hands that translate well to the collegiate level. Coming off a junior season where Crudup had to share carries, this 6'0 senior back will be the #1 option and go-to guy at running back this year with an opportunity to compete for Mr. Football honors. What I like most about the Golden Bears running back is his versatility. Crudup has the potential to become a three down back in college due to his balanced running style as well as his pass catching skills. The best days are ahead for Crudup as I feel he is just now coming into his own and realizing his capabilities.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- - - - - </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Other Ranked RB's</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='976043' first='E.J.' last='Carter'] - Notre Dame </strong>(11th ranked RB/104th overall)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- One of the more athletic and fastest ball carriers from the #TN2025 class, Carter has a chance to maneuver himself into the Top 10 with a big senior season as well as boost his recruitment that could eventually land him on the D1 level.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='841287' first='Micah' last='Burton'] - Lipscomb Acad. </strong>(12th ranked RB/107th overall)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- Sharing the backfield with Patterson Jr, Burton fills the role of 3rd down back nicely as someone that can use his strength to gain those needed short yards or be used as a pass catcher out of the backfield. If he can increase speed, Burton may see an in-flux of college recruiting.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='937072' first='Connor' last='Wheeler'] - Powell </strong>(13th ranked RB/114th overall)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- A multi-year starter for his Panthers offense, Wheeler is an elusive, fast back that shows excellent initial burst and the ability to break away from the pack. He is also an excellent pass catcher that I think can develop further in that area over the coming years. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":958611,"width":"349px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepredzone.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2023/08/cwheeler.jpg?w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-958611" style="width:349px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1201020' first='Thomas' last='Johnson'] - Cookeville </strong>(14th ranked RB/163rd overall)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- Sitting under the radar at the moment, Johnson is a hidden gem that may not wow some with his speed but the guy knows how to run the ball and find first downs. The Cavs senior back is a deceptive athlete that has enough speed to get the job done to go along with his outstanding power.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='500380' first='Rai'keyrean' last='Chandler'] - Shelbyville Cent. </strong>(15th ranked RB/178th overall)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- Chandler is a talented back that brings a nice combination of power, size and speed that should be on full display this Fall as the Golden Eagles featured back. He has the kind of talent and potential to have a big senior year and push his way closer towards our Top 100 prospects.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='616519' first='Rhyan' last='Brown'] - Melrose </strong>(16th ranked RB/181st overall)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- Brown has been a highly productive back in this state for two years now but could 2024 become his best season yet? We shall see as the Golden Cats ball carrier has a shot to run for close to 2,000 yards this year along with contending for Mr. Football honors.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='848834' first='Skylar' last='Thomas'] - Jefferson Co. </strong>(17th ranked RB/183rd overall)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- Sitting under the radar is this East Tennessee ball carrier that shows on film excellent burst and open field speed. Thomas has yet to be the #1 guy with the Patriots but that will change this Fall where he could become a 1,500 yard plus runner.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='219342' first='Tegan' last='Avera'] - Sevier Co. </strong>(18th ranked RB/191st overall)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- Avera made the move this off-season to Sevier Co. and I think it was a smart choice to put himself onto a bigger stage and prove how good he is. The Smoky Bears senior running back is one of the more productive ball carriers we have returning for the 2024 season and a sneaky contender for Class 4A Mr. Football.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='466233' first='Camarion' last='Miller'] - Haywood </strong>(19th ranked RB/197th overall)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- Explosive and fast are the first two traits you notice when watching Miller. Undersized but balanced and strong, Miller is a strong college option as a 3rd down back that has the power and speed to break through tackles or catch the ball out of the backfield. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":1201289,"width":"232px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepredzone.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/03/cammiller.jpg?w=400" alt="" class="wp-image-1201289" style="width:232px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1240402' first='James' last='Dalrymple'] - Clarksville </strong>(20th ranked RB/206th overall)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- Dalrymple returns for the 2024 season as one of the productive running backs from the Mid-Tennessee area. His ability to run through would be tacklers makes him an intriguing option for the college level.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='611895' first='Jakyri' last='McClure'] - Mt. Pleasant </strong>(21st ranked RB/240th overall)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- Big and powerful with good feet, McClure is a bigger back that can churn out those needed short yards as well as bring enough speed to break into the open field. If McClure can increase his explosion and sudden movements, his recruitment will be increased.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1002753' first='Montae' last='Baldwin'] - Columbia Acad. </strong>(22nd ranked RB/245th overall)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- A compact back with balance and explosive first step, Baldwin is a productive ball carrier that has a chance to rush for 2,000 yards this Fall. His work this season could be a catalyst towards pushing his Bulldogs into state title contention.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1110699' first='Skylan' last='Smith'] - Covington </strong>(23rd ranked RB/246th overall)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- Smith has done nothing but produce at a high level since he took over the lead running back role with the Chargers and I think he could be in-store for another big year that might end with Mr. Football consideration. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><a href="https://prepredzone.com/tennessee/rankings/2025-rankings/">Tennessee Top 250 Senior Rankings</a></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- - - - - - - - -&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>RB's Just Outside Top 250</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1257456' first='Josiah' last='Featherstone'] - Red Bank </strong>(24th ranked RB)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='344645' first='Harrison' last='Edwards'] - Lebanon </strong>(25th ranked RB)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='900800' first='Jhabari' last='Ellis'] - Arlington </strong>(26th ranked RB)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='466232' first='Jayden' last='Milton'] - West Carroll </strong>(27th ranked RB)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1200996' first='Jacob' last='Saunders'] - Hardin Co. </strong>(28th ranked RB)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='466231' first='Isaiah' last='McGill'] - Hunters Lane </strong>(29th ranked RB)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='497427' first='Caleb' last='Floyd'] - Stewarts Creek </strong>(30th ranked RB)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":1284825,"width":"254px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepredzone.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/05/20240519_165833-rotated.jpg?w=768" alt="" class="wp-image-1284825" style="width:254px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image -->