Back for More: Top 5A 2027 Running Backs Set to Dominate

Florida continues to produce premier football talent, and while quarterbacks and wideouts often grab headlines, the state's small-school running backs are showing they belong in the spotlight too.   The Class of 2027 is packed with rising stars who already possess advanced athleticism, versatility, and on-field production. These backs are explosive in space, patient behind blocks, and tough between the tackles—despite being underclassmen, many already lead their offenses and impact games on both sides of the ball.   This list shines a light on top performers from Florida's 5A classification, who are not only key contributors now but also college prospects to track long-term.   Sammy Chisolm – RB – Mosley High   Stats: 716 yards | 71.6 YPG | 6.45 YPC | 111 att | 25 long | 10 TD | 10 GP | 5'7, 175 lbs   Evaluation: Versatile offensive weapon who impacts the game from multiple alignments. Chisolm brings sudden burst, excellent lateral agility, and the ability to create in tight quarters. He accelerates north-south with intent and finishes runs with purpose. Ten touchdowns speak to his red-zone efficiency, and his ability to line up in the slot or backfield gives Mosley valuable flexibility. A dynamic threat every time the ball is in his hands.   Hector Paul – RB – North Miami High   Stats: 674 yards | 84.2 YPG | 8.12 YPC | 83 att | 7 TD | 8 GP | 5'9, 164 lbs   Evaluation: Explosive runner with game-breaking potential. Paul averaged over 8 yards per carry and consistently produced chunk gains that flipped field position. He hits the hole with urgency, shows natural burst into the second level, and is a scoring threat every time he touches the ball. North Miami's offense flows through him, and his efficiency and playmaking make him one of the most dangerous backs in the region.   Xavion Mitchell – RB – Kathleen High   Stats: 604 yards | 60.4 YPG | 5.39 YPC | 112 att | 56 long | 6 TD | 10 GP | 5'10, 170 lbs | 4.5 40yd dash Offers: University of Toledo   Evaluation: Powerful and athletic back who thrives between the tackles. Mitchell brings physicality on every carry and wears down defenses with his punishing style. He's dependable in short-yardage and flashes burst when he finds daylight, as shown by his 56-yard long run. With a verified 4.5 speed and a sturdy frame, Mitchell is a tone-setter who brings consistency and toughness to the ground game.   Caleb Cobb – RB – Cape Coral High   Stats: 580 yards | 64.4 YPG | 6.67 YPC | 87 att | 30 long | 6 TD | 9 GP | 5'6, 160 lbs   Evaluation: Highly efficient back with excellent vision and footwork. Cobb runs with patience and feel, using his blocks well and cutting with control. He's creative in space and consistently finds ways to maximize yardage. Averaging nearly 6.7 YPC, he's a smooth operator who keeps the chains moving and adds value as a scheme-versatile back with top-tier instincts.   Rahdel Jeanbaptiste – RB – Master Academy Charter   Stats: 579 yards | 72.4 YPG | 9.98 YPC | 58 att | 47 long | 8 GP | 5'7, 165 lbs Honors: 3rd Team All-Dade County   Evaluation: Lightning-fast and incredibly efficient, Jeanbaptiste averaged nearly 10 yards per carry while showing off explosive playmaking every time he touched the ball. His quick acceleration and gliding movement make him a nightmare in space. With elite short-area speed and an ability to break big plays, he's one of South Florida's most electric backs. A true field-tilter who generates instant offense.   Jazzy McDaniel – RB – Charlotte High   Stats: 495 yards | 49.5 YPG | 4.09 YPC | 121 att | 29 long | 7 TD | 10 GP | 5'9, 180 lbs   Evaluation: Physical, high-volume runner who sets the tone for Charlotte's offense. McDaniel embraces contact, finishes runs with authority, and consistently finds paydirt with 7 touchdowns on the year. His ability to handle a heavy workload and maintain toughness throughout games speaks to his durability and leadership. A reliable, every-down back who brings edge and effort to the backfield.   Gio Marenco – RB – Gulf Coast High   Stats: 494 yards | 54.9 YPG | 6.96 YPC | 71 att | 50 long | 4 TD | 9 GP | 5'10, 185 lbs   Evaluation: Smooth, agile runner with big-play juice. Marenco possesses a natural ability to change direction and create space, often making defenders miss in the open field. Averaging nearly 7 yards per carry, he consistently delivers chunk gains and brings balance to the offense. His 50-yard long run is a glimpse of his top gear. A dynamic playmaker with strong vision and burst.

Florida continues to produce premier football talent, and while quarterbacks and wideouts often grab headlines, the state's small-school running backs are showing they belong in the spotlight too.