Top Five 2025 RB’s: Columbus

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In Columbus, Ohio, the class of 2025 boasts a remarkable array of talent at the running back position, showcasing the depth and quality of high school football in the area. Among the top prospects are dynamic playmakers who possess the skills to make a significant impact on the gridiron. Here are 5 RB's who top out the list from the latest 2025 rankings.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["731100"],"_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":"[player_tooltip player_id='731100' first='Michael' last='Taylor'], a running back from Pickerington North, is an electrifying player standing at 5'10u0022 and weighing 195 pounds. With a blistering 40-yard dash time of 4.5 seconds, he possesses the speed and explosiveness that coaches covet at the running back position.rnrnOne of Taylor's most impressive attributes is his innate ability to read running lanes. Whether it's a gap scheme play like the G/T counter or G/H counter, or a zone play such as inside zone or outside zone, Taylor excels in finding the creases and exploiting them with precision. This versatility sets him apart, as it's rare for a running back to excel in both gap and zone schemes.rnrnTaylor's skill set extends beyond his vision and understanding of blocking schemes. He displays exceptional burst and agility, allowing him to quickly hit the hole and evade defenders in the open field. Despite his explosiveness, he also shows patience when necessary, waiting for blocks to develop before accelerating through the line of scrimmage.rnrnHis impressive performance on the field has garnered attention from college programs, with offers already on the table from Marshall, Toledo, and Ball State. With a projected breakout senior year ahead, it's likely that more offers will come pouring in as scouts and recruiters take notice of his undeniable talent.rnrnIn summary, [player_tooltip player_id='731100' first='Michael' last='Taylor'] is a dynamic running back prospect with the speed, vision, and versatility to succeed at the collegiate level and beyond. His ability to excel in both gap and zone schemes, coupled with his explosiveness and natural instincts, make him a highly sought-after recruit in the class of 2025.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_1_player":["1115359"],"_player_evaluations_1_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_1_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_1_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_1_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_1_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_1_evaluation":"[player_tooltip player_id='1147324' first='Kentrell' last='Rinehart'], a running back from Westland High School, presents a formidable package standing at an imposing 6'1u0022 and weighing 215 pounds. Despite his size, Rinehart possesses breakaway speed, making him a rare combination of power and explosiveness on the field.rnrnPlaying in a system primarily based on gap schemes, Rinehart thrived as the focal point of the offense. His patient running style allowed him to wait for holes to develop before decisively hitting north/south lanes, maximizing yardage gained on each carry. His ability to read blocks and find running lanes showcases his football IQ and vision as a runner.rnrnRinehart's impact wasn't limited to traditional running plays; he was also a weapon in the passing game. Utilized effectively on seam routes and deep balls, he created mismatches against linebackers and safeties with his size and athleticism. His hands and route-running ability allowed him to excel as a receiving threat, adding another dimension to his game and keeping defenses on their toes.rnrnIn Ohio's competitive high school football landscape, Rinehart stood out as one of the premier backs, not just in Columbus but across the state. His blend of power, speed, and versatility caught the attention of Power 5 programs, highlighting his potential to make an impact at the collegiate level and beyond.rnrnIn summary, [player_tooltip player_id='1147324' first='Kentrell' last='Rinehart'] is a dynamic running back prospect with the physical tools, football intelligence, and playmaking ability to succeed at the highest levels of the game. His skill set translates well to multiple offensive systems, and his potential to contribute both as a runner and a receiver makes him a coveted prospect for college programs seeking a difference-maker in the backfield.","_player_evaluations_1_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_2_player":["1147212"],"_player_evaluations_2_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_2_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_2_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_2_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_2_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_2_evaluation":"[player_tooltip player_id='1147212' first='Tyrell' last='Russell'], a running back from Beechcroft High School, may not have the stature of a traditional power back, but what he lacks in size, he more than makes up for with his explosive athleticism and versatility.rnrnStanding at 5'10u0022 and weighing 160 pounds, Russell may not be the biggest back on the field, but he possesses top-end breakaway speed, clocking in at an impressive 4.56 seconds in the 40-yard dash. His speed is a game-changer, allowing him to outrun defenders and break long runs for touchdowns.rnrnRussell was a standout performer in the competitive Columbus City League, where he played a pivotal role in Beechcroft's offense. Despite his size, he proved to be a dynamic threat in both the running and passing game. Excelling in a gap scheme offense, Russell displayed the ability to effectively navigate through traffic and find running lanes. Moreover, his agility and quickness enabled him to bounce the ball to the outside when necessary, turning potential losses into big gains.rnrnBeyond his contributions on offense, Russell's electrifying athleticism translated to special teams, where he was a consistent threat to score on kick returns or punt returns. His ability to change direction on a dime and accelerate past defenders made him a nightmare for opposing coverage units.rnrnWhat truly sets Russell apart is his versatility. While primarily a running back, he possesses the athleticism and skill set to line up at various positions on the field. Whether it's in the backfield, out wide as a receiver, or even on defense, Russell's playmaking ability makes him a valuable asset anywhere he lines up.rnrnIn summary, [player_tooltip player_id='1147212' first='Tyrell' last='Russell'] is an electric athlete with game-changing speed and versatility. Despite his smaller stature, he proved to be a dynamic playmaker on offense, defense, and special teams. His ability to excel in multiple facets of the game makes him a coveted prospect for college programs looking for a difference-maker on the field.","_player_evaluations_2_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_3_player":["1273049"],"_player_evaluations_3_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_3_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_3_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_3_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_3_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_3_evaluation":"[player_tooltip player_id='1273049' first='Kaejuan' last='Alexander'], hailing from Pickerington Central, defies the traditional mold of a running back with his slightly undersized stature at 5'11u0022 and 170 pounds. However, what he lacks in size, he more than compensates for with his exceptional vision and versatility on the field.rnrnOperating within Pickerington's pro-style offense, Alexander's vision stands out as a defining trait. In an offense where vision is paramount for success, Alexander's ability to read the field and find running lanes is unparalleled. His knack for anticipating openings allows him to excel in a variety of offensive sets, from spread formations to I-formations, making him a versatile weapon in any offensive scheme.rnrnAlexander possesses breakaway speed, enabling him to quickly turn the corner and accelerate upfield once he hits the hole. His burst of acceleration transforms him into a dangerous threat in the open field, capable of turning routine plays into game-changing moments.rnrnAlexander's versatility extends beyond his rushing abilities. He demonstrates proficiency in catching the ball out of the backfield, adding another dimension to his game. Whether it's on swing passes, screens, or wheel routes, Alexander's hands and route-running ability make him a valuable asset in the passing game.rnrnPlaying against top competition further highlights Alexander's capabilities. He consistently performs at a high level against some of the best defenses in the region, proving his ability to thrive in pressure-packed situations.rnrnIn summary, [player_tooltip player_id='1273049' first='Kaejuan' last='Alexander'] is an electrifying player whose dynamic skill set transcends his size limitations. With exceptional vision, breakaway speed, and versatility as a receiver, he poses a significant threat to opposing defenses in any offensive scheme. His ability to excel against top competition underscores his potential to make an immediate impact at the collegiate level and beyond.","_player_evaluations_3_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_4_player":["1147214"],"_player_evaluations_4_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_4_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_4_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_4_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_4_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_4_evaluation":"[player_tooltip player_id='1147214' first='Dylan' last='Armentrout'], representing Bloom Carroll High School, stands at 5'9u0022 and weighs 190 pounds, possessing a compact yet powerful frame for the running back position. Despite his size, Armentrout is a force to be reckoned with on the field, showcasing blazing speed with a 4.5-second 40-yard dash time.rnrnIn 2023, Armentrout emerged as a breakout player in Bloom Carroll's offense, which heavily relied on the running game. Operating as the speed/scat back in a dynamic 1-2 punch, Armentrout proved to be a game-changer with his ability to breakaway from defenders. His explosive acceleration allowed him to turn routine plays into big gains, often breaking through arm tackles with ease.rnrnArmentrout's agility and elusiveness make him a nightmare for opposing defenses, as he possesses the knack for finding running lanes and exploiting them with precision. His capacity to turn short gains into explosive plays, breaking tackles and accelerating downfield, showcases his big-play potential and impact on the field.rnrnHeading into his senior year, Armentrout is poised to take on a more significant role as the primary back for Bloom Carroll. With the spotlight squarely on him, he is expected to have a breakout season, leveraging his speed and playmaking ability to lead the offense. As the focal point of the team's rushing attack, Armentrout has the opportunity to showcase his skills and solidify his status as one of the top running backs in the region.rnrnIn summary, [player_tooltip player_id='1147214' first='Dylan' last='Armentrout'] is a dynamic playmaker with the speed, agility, and vision to excel at the running back position. His ability to break tackles and turn short gains into explosive plays makes him a valuable asset to Bloom Carroll's offense. With a promising senior year ahead, Armentrout is primed to make a significant impact and leave a lasting legacy at the high school level.","_player_evaluations_4_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":5,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6644dfe8cb591"} /-->