Stock Risers: Running Backs Gaining College Eyes

Tennessee continues to be a hotbed for running back talent, producing a wide range of dynamic prospects year after year. This year's class is no exception, featuring a deep pool of players with varying skill sets and playing styles. Whether it's the physical, downhill bruisers who wear defenses down, the elusive playmakers with game-breaking speed and agility, or the versatile backs who can line up out wide and create mismatches in the passing game — there's a little bit of everything in this group.   Some of these prospects are already garnering serious attention from college programs, while others are flying a bit under the radar but have all the tools to break out in a big way. In this breakdown, I'll be spotlighting a mix of rising stars and underrated names who are turning heads with their production, athleticism, and upside. Expect to hear more from this group as we move further into camp season and recruiting heats up.   - - -   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='471474' first='LeKhy' last='Thompkins'] - USJ</h2>   6'2" 225 lbs   An absolute physical specimen — that's the first thing that comes to mind when watching LeKhy play. With a powerful, well-built frame, he's a nightmare for defenders to try and bring down in the open field. What makes him even more dangerous is his sneaky speed, allowing him to burst through holes and pull away when he gets into space. He's not just a bruiser either — LeKhy has soft, reliable hands that make him a real threat in the passing game as well. He brings the full package to the table, and it's no surprise that college coaches are starting to take serious notice. Expect his recruitment to keep trending upward. (pictured below)   Offers include: Mississippi State, Louisville, West Virginia, Minnesota, etc.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1431775' first='Christopher' last='Talley'] - Whitehaven</h2>   5'10 175 lbs   If you're looking for blazing speed in this class, look no further than [player_tooltip player_id='1431775' first='Christopher' last='Talley']. He clocks an impressive 13.77 in the 110m hurdles — a time that ranks him among the top 50 in the country. That elite track speed translates effortlessly to the football field, where Talley is a true home run threat every time he touches the ball. His vision and burst in the open field are elite, and he makes defenders miss with ease thanks to his fluid movement and wicked jump cut. A pure athlete in every sense, Talley's explosiveness and playmaking ability are turning heads — and college programs are quickly lining up to get in on this electric prospect.   Offers include: Arkansas, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, Georgia Tech, etc.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">T.J. Ward - Nashville Christian</h2>   6'0" 210 lbs   T.J. Ward is the definition of a complete back. He brings a rare blend of physicality and breakaway speed that makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. A key piece in his team's State Championship run last season, Ward's tough running style and relentless motor helped carry them all the way to the title. He's an absolute bruiser who isn't afraid to lower the shoulder and run through contact, but what makes him even more dangerous is his quickness around the line of scrimmage. He has a great feel for finding the hole and exploding through it with purpose. A versatile, well-rounded back who's drawing serious college interest — Ward is one to keep your eye on this recruiting cycle.   Offers include: Ole Miss, Tennessee, Auburn, Clemson, etc.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='834613' first='Robert' last='Bailey'] - Shelbyville Central</h2>   5'11" 220 lbs   [player_tooltip player_id='834613' first='Robert' last='Bailey'] is the kind of back every coach wants on their roster. After stepping up when his team lost their top guy, Bailey didn't just fill the role — he dominated it. Racking up an impressive 1,860 rushing yards and 23 touchdowns, he proved he's more than capable of carrying the load. His running style is built on physicality, toughness, and quickness — three traits that make him a complete back. What sets him apart is his work ethic and determination; he's the type of player who outworks everyone around him. Still flying a bit under the radar, Bailey has the tools and mindset to thrive at the next level. Whichever program lands him will be getting a true sleeper — a hidden gem ready to shine.   Offers include: Jacksonville State, Austin Peay, and Eastern Kentucky   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='829107' first='Marcelles' last='Davis'] - Houston</h2>   6'0" 190 lbs   [player_tooltip player_id='829107' first='Marcelles' last='Davis'] is the definition of a complete back with a college-ready frame and a game that translates well to the next level. Competing at a high level in big-time high school football, he consistently produces against top-tier competition. He's explosive through the gap and shows great vision getting downhill, but what really makes him stand out is his versatility. Davis is just as dangerous catching the ball out of the backfield, showcasing soft hands and the ability to create mismatches in space. His blend of speed, power, and football IQ makes him a serious weapon. It's honestly surprising that more Power 4 programs haven't jumped on him yet. Don't be shocked if that changes soon — Davis has the tools and upside to be a major contributor at the collegiate level.   Offers include: TCU, Indiana, Temple, Arkansas State, etc.   <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://prepredzone.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/04/2LioNOsC_400x400.jpg?w=400" alt="" class="wp-image-1658158" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: [player_tooltip player_id='471474' first='LeKhy' last='Thompkins']</figcaption></figure>

Tennessee continues to be a hotbed for running back talent, producing a wide range of dynamic prospects year after year. This year's class is no exception, featuring a deep pool of players with varying skill sets and playing styles. Whether it's the physical, downhill bruisers who wear defenses down, the elusive playmakers with game-breaking speed and agility, or the versatile backs who can line up out wide and create mismatches in the passing game — there's a little bit of everything in this group.