Powerful Running Backs to Know in Illinois’s 2028 Class

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The 2028 class in Illinois already features a strong group of physical running backs built to handle tough yards and wear defenses down. While speed and explosiveness always draw attention, there is still plenty of value in bigger backs who can run through contact, finish runs, and control the tempo of a game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Here are several powerful running backs to know in the 2028 class.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2140437' first='Wendell' last='Smith'] – Bradley Bourbonnais (5'10”, 220)</strong><br>Smith immediately stands out as one of the most physically imposing backs in the class. At 220 pounds, he brings the type of build that can thrive in short-yardage situations while also being capable of wearing down defenses over four quarters. He has the frame to be a true downhill runner.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1856080' first='Jamar' last='Lewis'] – King (6'1”, 210)</strong><br>Lewis brings size and length to the running back position. At 6'1”, 210 pounds, he profiles as a physical back who can run behind his pads and finish runs with authority. His frame gives him excellent upside as a power runner.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='971686' first='Layden' last='Williams'] – Homewood-Flossmoor (5'10”, 210)</strong><br>Williams has a compact, sturdy build that fits perfectly in a downhill rushing attack. Backs built like this are often difficult to bring down on first contact and can be a major factor in the red zone.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2140324' first='Ervim' last='Tabag'] – Rochester (5'9”, 210)</strong><br>Tabag brings a low center of gravity and a physical frame that makes him tough to tackle. He fits the mold of a bruising runner who can consistently pick up tough yards between the tackles.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2140174' first='Jayden' last='Garrett'] – Loyola (6'1”, 195)</strong><br>Garrett brings a bigger frame than many backs in the class and still has room to continue adding strength. He has the type of build that can develop into a balanced power-speed back.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1905312' first='Xavier' last='Owusu-Gyan'] – Olney (5'11”, 190)</strong><br>Owusu-Gyan is another strong-bodied runner from Southern Illinois who brings physicality to the position. As he continues to develop, he could continue climbing.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2088604' first='Quinn' last='Schiffbauer'] – Minooka (5'11”, 190)</strong><br>Schiffbauer has a solid frame and the type of body that can continue to add good weight. He fits the profile of a strong, dependable runner.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The 2028 class continues to show that physical, downhill runners still have a major role in today's game. This group brings the size and strength to be difference-makers as they continue to develop.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->