Speed, Power, Vision: The Future of the Backfield

The 2027 running back class features a strong blend of physicality, burst, and football intelligence. These young backs already show traits that separate starters from depth players, including vision between the tackles, contact balance, and versatility on all three downs. As the position continues to evolve, pass protection and receiving ability remain critical, and this group shows promising early development in both areas. Each prospect brings a different style to the backfield, whether it's downhill power or explosive speed. Prep Redzone breaks down four rising 2027 running backs who continue to elevate their stock with consistent production and advanced skill sets.    LaMarrion Gooden runs with a strong blend of patience and explosiveness. He shows good vision pressing the line of scrimmage before making decisive cuts. Gooden keeps his pads low and consistently falls forward through contact. His burst through the hole allows him to turn small creases into chunk gains. He displays solid balance, staying upright through arm tackles. Gooden shows comfort catching the ball out of the backfield. He competes with physicality in pass protection and shows willingness to step up. His all-around skill set gives him clear three-down potential.     [player_tooltip player_id='1651367' first='Hayes' last='Hatton'] brings a physical running style that wears down defenses. He runs behind his pads and finishes runs with authority. Hatton shows good vision between the tackles and understands how to follow his blockers. His footwork allows him to navigate traffic efficiently in tight spaces. He has enough burst to hit the second level when lanes open. Hatton consistently gains positive yardage and keeps the offense on schedule. He shows toughness in short-yardage situations. Hatton projects as a dependable early-down back with upside.     Isaiah Allen is an explosive runner with home-run ability. He accelerates quickly once he sees daylight. Allen shows good lateral agility, allowing him to make defenders miss in space. His speed forces defenders to take sharp angles in pursuit. He displays confidence bouncing runs outside when the edge is sealed. Allen is effective on perimeter runs and stretch concepts. He continues to improve as a receiver out of the backfield. His big-play potential makes him a constant threat.     [player_tooltip player_id='1853955' first='Isaiah' last='Bennett'] is a balanced runner who plays with strong tempo and control. He shows patience allowing blocks to develop before committing downhill. Bennett runs with good pad level and absorbs contact well. His vision allows him to find cutback lanes consistently. He displays solid short-area quickness through the hole. Bennett contributes in the passing game with reliable hands. He understands situational football and protects the quarterback when needed. Bennett projects as a versatile back who can handle multiple roles.

The 2027 running back class features a strong blend of physicality, burst, and football intelligence. These young backs already show traits that separate starters from depth players, including vision between the tackles, contact balance, and versatility on all three downs. As the position continues to evolve, pass protection and receiving ability remain critical, and this group shows promising early development in both areas. Each prospect brings a different style to the backfield, whether it's downhill power or explosive speed. Prep Redzone breaks down four rising 2027 running backs who continue to elevate their stock with consistent production and advanced skill sets.