Future Playmakers: 2026 RBs to Keep an Eye On

The 2026 class of running backs in Alabama is already shaping up to be one to watch, with a mix of raw talent, athleticism, and high football IQ. These young athletes may still be early in their high school careers, but they're already making waves on the field with their speed, vision, and playmaking ability. As we look ahead to the future of Alabama football, these running backs are primed to develop into key contributors for their teams and potentially, top college prospects. In this report, we highlight some of the standout 2026 RBs who are showing immense potential and could be the next big names in Alabama high school football.    Jabari Williams is a dynamic running back with explosive speed and great vision. He has the ability to hit the hole quickly and navigate through traffic with ease, making him a constant threat to break off long runs. Williams' agility and quick footwork allow him to change direction effortlessly, leaving defenders grasping at air. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield adds versatility to his game, making him a dual threat. As he continues to develop his strength and awareness, Williams is poised to become a top prospect.     Jaylin Mccray stands out with his combination of size, speed, and power, making him a force to reckon with on the field. He excels at breaking tackles and fighting for extra yards, showing tremendous toughness and resilience. Mccray also has good acceleration in open space, turning small gains into big plays. His ability to protect the ball and consistently move the chains makes him a reliable option in both short-yardage and long-distance situations. With further development, Mccray has the potential to be a standout at the next level.     [player_tooltip player_id='1211624' first='Jimmy' last='King'] possesses a natural talent for reading defenses and finding gaps in the line of scrimmage. His patience as a runner allows him to wait for blocks to develop, and when they do, he accelerates quickly through the line. King's low center of gravity and balance make it difficult for defenders to bring him down, even after contact. He shows excellent field awareness, knowing when to switch gears or cut back for additional yardage. As he continues to grow in his game, King will be a key player to watch in future seasons.     Carter Judah is a versatile back with a unique blend of power and finesse. He can bulldoze through defenders with his strength but also displays nimble footwork to evade tacklers when needed. Judah's endurance and ability to maintain his speed throughout the game make him a reliable offensive weapon, especially in critical moments. He's also proven to be effective in pass protection, adding value to his team's offensive scheme. As his game matures, Judah's skillset will continue to attract attention from college scouts.     Robert Lytle is known for his game-changing speed and ability to make defenders miss in the open field. His acceleration off the line is impressive, and he's able to maintain top speed even through contact. Lytle has a knack for finding seams in the defense and turning them into big plays. His elusiveness in one-on-one situations sets him apart from many backs his age. With improved strength and continued development, Lytle has the potential to be a true playmaker at the next level.     [player_tooltip player_id='1604807' first='Tristin' last='Blackmon'] is a tough, hard-nosed runner with a strong build and a relentless drive. He excels in short-yardage situations, using his power and low pad level to push through defenders. Blackmon's vision and patience as a runner are advanced for his age, allowing him to make smart decisions with the ball. His ability to wear down defenses over the course of a game is a valuable asset to any team. With his physicality and work ethic, Blackmon is a player to watch as he continues to develop.     Zaylan Jackson-Ligon is a quick, shifty runner who excels in space. His lateral movement and ability to change direction at full speed make him a nightmare for defenders in the open field. Jackson-Ligon's quickness allows him to bounce outside and turn the corner, often beating defenders to the edge. His hands are reliable as a pass catcher, making him a valuable dual-threat back. As he adds strength and refines his technique, Jackson-Ligon's upside is significant.

The 2026 class of running backs in Alabama is already shaping up to be one to watch, with a mix of raw talent, athleticism, and high football IQ. These young athletes may still be early in their high school careers, but they're already making waves on the field with their speed, vision, and playmaking ability. As we look ahead to the future of Alabama football, these running backs are primed to develop into key contributors for their teams and potentially, top college prospects. In this report, we highlight some of the standout 2026 RBs who are showing immense potential and could be the next big names in Alabama high school football.