Four Under-the-Radar 2026 Running Backs You Should Know
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>Dominic DiLeonardi – Geneva</strong><br>DiLeonardi is a compact, no-nonsense back who thrives on decisiveness. At 5'9", 185 pounds, he keeps his pads low and stays on schedule. He isn't flashy, but he's incredibly reliable — the type of back who consistently gets what's blocked and then adds a few more. Geneva has a steady presence in the backfield with DiLeonardi leading the charge.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='801891' first='Owen' last='Yorke'] – Wheaton Warrenville South</strong><br>Yorke brings a powerful frame and a hard-nosed approach to the run game. At 5'10", 190 pounds, he's already generating next-level interest from D3 schools like Wisconsin-Oshkosh. His strong lower body and physical running style allow him to finish through contact. Yorke is the kind of back that gets stronger as the game goes on.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>Carter Naranjo – West Chicago</strong><br>Naranjo is a patient, between-the-tackles runner who plays bigger than his 5'9", 175-pound frame suggests. He has a natural feel for tempo and timing, setting up blocks and finishing runs with toughness. As he gains more reps, expect his role to expand. He's a potential breakout candidate in West Chicago's offense.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>Justin Cobbs – Lincoln-Way Central</strong><br>Cobbs is a stout, compact back at 5'7", 185 pounds who thrives on contact. He runs with surprising power, using his leverage and balance to stay upright through tackles. He's not just a tough runner — he's productive in short-yardage and red zone situations. Cobbs brings grit to Lincoln-Way Central's ground game.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
Dominic DiLeonardi – Geneva
DiLeonardi is a compact, no-nonsense back who thrives on decisiveness. At 5'9", 185 pounds, he keeps his pads low and stays on schedule. He isn't flashy, but he's incredibly reliable — the type of back who consistently gets what's blocked and then adds a few more. Geneva has a steady presence in the backfield with DiLeonardi leading the charge.
Access all of Prep Redzone
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue Reading
Already a subscriber?
Log in
