2026 Under the Radar: Running Backs

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Running backs are the workhorses of any offense, blending speed, power, and agility to make things happen on the field. In this edition of our "Under the Radar" series, we're spotlighting the Class of 2026 running back prospects—talented athletes who may not yet be grabbing national headlines but have all the tools to emerge as breakout stars next season. Join us as we delve into the skills and potential of these dynamic playmakers who are poised to carry their teams to new heights.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1110957"],"_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-67a3244257c6e"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Thompson has some pretty impressive film, and I see his stock soaring going into his senior year. He is plus-size for the position but also has the agility needed. He has a bruising back frame but can do more than just run you over. An offseason focusing on his speed and agility could be exactly what he needs. Thompson will be a massive piece of the Wildcats' success next season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1103441"],"_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-67a3244257cd9"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Akers has the potential to blow up this season. I feel like he is a back with the size and strength to run you over but also shows some impressive burst on film. I also want to mention his vision as he is a patient runner who will hit the whole as soon as one opens, which is a treat to see at his age. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1234447"],"_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-67a3244257d20"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Kuenzi comes from a power run game offense in Cascade, and boy does he fit their scheme. Kuenzi is a monster to bring down, especially at the 4A level. Kuenzi does benefit from a stout offensive line, but he is impressive once he gets going downhill, as breaking 3+ tackles in one play is not irregular for him. I am interested in seeing how his recruiting pans out.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1286959"],"_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-67a3244257d62"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Lefebvre is more of the traditional high school running back, where he is most likely the team's fastest and most elusive guy. He shows that in his film. His ability to make guys miss in the open field impressed me. He also shows some nice balance for his size as he easily runs through lazy arm tackles. A big offseason will be crucial for Lefebvre.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1569373"],"_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-67a3244257da5"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">I am a big fan of Phillips out of North Salem. He is the most athletic running back on this list and showed tremendous breakaway speed on his tape. I also believe Philips has lots of potential as he has a nice frame that looks like it will add muscle mass nicely. With the proper offseason, I would not be surprised if Phillips breaks out in a big way his senior year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->