Class of 2028 Running Backs Flying Under the Radar

Florida has long been a hotbed of high school football talent. Annually, Florida produces some of the nation's top prospects. Florida athletes are known for their speed, agility, and raw athleticism. These prospects have made names for themselves and have caught the attention of coaches and scouts at the collegiate level. With the 2025 season over, we're looking for players whose stock is rising in the state.   These players are all talented and have college-level abilities. Some of these players have a few offers, but all of them have the ability to play college football at some level.   There are some big-time, highly rated prospects and several sleeper prospects who should all be getting looks for the next level. This list is full of stud prospects.   Prep Redzone Florida will always support every player on their journey to playing college   Daryl Ellis – RB, East Ridge High Height/Weight: 6'1”, 205 lbs Season Stats: 110 carries for 773 yards (7.0 avg), 10 TDs; 3 receptions for 24 yards. Long: 51 (11 GP). 4.3 GPA, Team Offensive Back Award   Scouting Report: Ellis is a big, well-built runner who combines size with surprising burst through the hole. He runs with good pad level for his frame and shows the ability to finish runs with authority. His speed allows him to chew up yardage quickly once he reaches the second level.   Analysis: Ellis projects as a powerful feature back capable of handling a steady workload. Continued development in lateral quickness and pass-game involvement could expand his role, but his size, efficiency, and ability to generate chunk plays make him a strong offensive piece.   Nicholas Bertolani – FB, Harmony High Height/Weight: 5'9”, 225 lbs Season Stats: 114 carries for 661 yards (5.8 avg), 2 TDs. Long: 20 (9 GP)   Scouting Report: Bertolani is a compact, physical fullback who thrives between the tackles. He runs with strong balance and leverage, consistently pushing piles and finishing runs through contact. His acceleration through the hole and low center of gravity makes him difficult to bring down on first contact.   Analysis: Bertolani projects as a traditional power back or fullback who can handle a heavy workload. Expanding his impact as a blocker and occasional receiver could elevate his versatility, but his toughness and reliability already stand out.   Trey Gaffney – RB, Newsome High Height/Weight: 5'10” Season Stats: 82 carries for 422 yards (5.1 avg), 6 TDs; 12 receptions for 114 yards and 2 TDs. Long: 40 (9 GP). 3.95 GPA   Scouting Report: Gaffney is a balanced runner with good vision and patience when setting up blocks. He shows solid burst through the line and has the hands to contribute as a receiver out of the backfield. His ability to contribute in multiple phases adds versatility to an offense.   Analysis: Gaffney projects as a well-rounded back capable of contributing on multiple downs. Continued improvement in acceleration and physical finishing will help raise his production ceiling, but his versatility and football IQ give him a solid foundation.   Naylan Albritton Jr. – RB, Alonso High Height/Weight: 5'7”, 150 lbs Season Stats: 49 carries for 340 yards (6.9 avg), 6 TDs; 4 receptions for 21 yards. Long: 51 (10 GP). 3.2 GPA. 4.6 40, 10.4 100m   Scouting Report: Albritton is a quick, explosive runner with impressive straight-line speed. He accelerates rapidly into open space and shows the ability to break long runs when he finds a crease. His track speed is evident once he reaches the second level.   Analysis: Albritton projects as a change-of-pace back with big-play potential. Adding strength and durability will help him handle increased touches, but his speed and explosiveness already make him a dangerous offensive weapon.   Matwoin Bryant – RB/FS, Winter Haven High Height/Weight: 5'10”, 190 lbs Season Stats: 44 carries for 322 yards (7.3 avg), 4 TDs. Long: 36 (9 GP). 3.3 GPA   Scouting Report: Bryant is a physical, downhill runner with a sturdy build and good burst through contact. He shows the ability to hit holes decisively and finishes runs with power. His two-way experience also highlights his athleticism and competitiveness.   Analysis: Bryant projects as a tough, versatile athlete capable of contributing on both sides of the ball. Continued refinement in the passing game will help him become more consistent, but his vision, strength, and efficiency with the ball stand out.   Zion Weems – RB, Strawberry Crest High Height/Weight: 5'9”, 185 lbs Season Stats: 49 carries for 298 yards (6.0 avg), 5 TDs; 1 reception for 10 yards. Long: 37 (5 GP). 3.6 GPA   Scouting Report: Weems is a compact runner with good balance and contact strength. He shows good vision and patience pressing the line before committing to his lane and runs with an edge. His ability to stay on his feet through traffic helps him grind out extra yards.   Analysis: Weems projects as a steady rotational back who can contribute in physical run schemes. Increasing his involvement in the passing game and continuing to develop explosiveness could expand his role, but his toughness and consistency are clear strengths.

Florida has long been a hotbed of high school football talent. Annually, Florida produces some of the nation's top prospects. Florida athletes are known for their speed, agility, and raw athleticism. These prospects have made names for themselves and have caught the attention of coaches and scouts at the collegiate level. With the 2025 season over, we're looking for players whose stock is rising in the state.