Five Class of 2027 Running Backs Who Are Trending Upward

The class of 2027 running backs in Texas is shaping up to be one of the most talented groups in recent memory. With the start of the regular season just nine days away, anticipation is building to see these elite young athletes in action. Here's a breakdown of several top rushers in the 2027 class who are expected to make a significant impact this season.    Williams-Callis is a next-level talent and one of the top sophomore running backs in Texas. He is phonebooth quick, Williams-Callis has great balance and is a strong, powerful runner with the ability to break tackles. His compact, stout build gives him the durability and strength to consistently churn out yardage, even against tough defenses.   Williams-Callis had a sensational freshman season, showcasing his talent by running for 1,946 yards and scoring 27 total touchdowns. His outstanding performance earned him the title of 10-5A DII District MVP, setting the stage for an even more impressive sophomore year. He is definitely a player to watch as he continues to develop and dominate on the field. He has over 40 offers that include, South Carolina, Oklahoma, Texas and most recently Michigan.     Dixon is an elite athlete at the running back position with a toolbox full of traits that make him a special talent. With a stout, powerful build, Dixon runs with a combination of speed and power that makes him a nightmare for defenders. His killer stiff-arm allows him to break through arm tackles, and his great patience in the hole, coupled with an innate ability to find creases, makes him a consistent threat on every carry.   Dixon explodes through contact and has jitterbug quickness, enabling him to change directions and cut on a dime. His breakaway speed adds another layer to his game, allowing him to outrun defenses in the open field. His great hands make him a reliable receiver out of the backfield, which showcases his versatility.   In his freshman season, Dixon ran for 1,181 yards and scored 19 total touchdowns, quickly establishing himself as a top prospect. He is highly recruited, with offers from programs like UTEP, Tennessee, Texas A&M, Texas, and TCU.     Smith is a versatile athlete and a true playmaker with the ball in his hands. Quick and shifty in the open field, Smith has the speed and burst to take it to the house for six on any given play. His elite hands make him a reliable receiver out of the backfield, adding another dimension to his already dynamic skill set. Smith is electric with the ball in his hands, capable of making defenders miss and turning routine plays into game-changing moments.   His talent has garnered attention from several top programs, with offers from Colorado, Baylor, San Diego State, Arkansas, UTEP, and North Texas. Smith's ability to impact the game in multiple ways makes him a highly sought-after prospect and a player to watch as he continues to develop.     McMiller is a strong runner with the speed and burst to break off big runs. Quick and agile, McMiller has great feet and is shifty in space, making him a tough matchup for defenders. At 6-foot-1 and 185 pounds, he runs with power, yet possesses the game-breaking speed to turn any play into a quick six, regardless of down or distance.   His combination of size, power, and explosiveness has caught the attention of several top programs. McMiller holds offers from Arkansas, North Texas, Houston, Baylor, and Nebraska.     Shanks Jr. is a big play waiting to happen with the football in his hands. He runs with great patience, he has excellent vision to set up his blocks and he explodes through the hole with the speed to make a house call for six. Shanks Jr. is a an elite runner in the open field with the ability to cut back against the grain without losing momentum. He was selected Freshman Newcomer of the Year for 16-6A in 2023. He is a threat in the passing game out of the backfield, showing great hands and when he sees green grass he explodes to daylight. He rushed for 716 yards, while hauling in 233 yards through the air and he had 12 total touchdowns. He will suit up for The Kincaid School this season. He will be an immediate impact player for his new squad. Shanks Jr. has seen his stock on the recruiting trail rise with offers from UTA, Houston. Texas Tech, SMU and Oregon State.

The class of 2027 running backs in Texas is shaping up to be one of the most talented groups in recent memory. With the start of the regular season just nine days away, anticipation is building to see these elite young athletes in action. Here's a breakdown of several top rushers in the 2027 class who are expected to make a significant impact this season.