Top Returning 2A Rushers from the C/O 2028 Class

Florida has long been a hotbed for high school football talent. Year after year, the Sunshine State produces some of the nation's most electric prospects. From game-breaking speed to next-level agility and pure, raw athleticism, Florida athletes consistently set the tone on Friday nights, and college coaches across the country take notice.   With the 2025 season now in the rearview, we're turning our focus to the players whose stock is rising across the state. Every athlete on this list has the tools to play at the next level. Some already hold multiple offers, while others are just beginning to gain traction, but all possess the ability to compete in college football in the right fit.   This group features a mix of nationally regarded standouts and under-the-radar sleepers who deserve serious attention from college programs. Simply put, this list is loaded with difference-makers.   Prep Redzone Florida will continue to support and spotlight these athletes as they chase their goal of playing college football.   [player_tooltip player_id='1153040' first='Xander' last='Edwards'] – RB, The Bolles School Height/Weight: 6'2", 220 lbs Season Stats: 265 att, 2,629 rush yds, 175.3 yds/g, 9.92 avg, 17 rec 211 yds, 44 TD (15 GP). Offers: Florida Gators, Wisconsin, Georgia Tech, Miami, Syracuse, Pitt. 4.5 40 yd   Scouting Report: Edwards is a big, powerful running back with excellent size and burst for the position. He runs with outstanding vision, presses the line patiently, and consistently breaks tackles with a combination of strength and long speed. He also shows reliable hands as a receiver and finishes runs with authority.   Analysis: Edwards projects as a high-level feature back who can handle a heavy workload in power-gap or spread schemes. His combination of size, production, and verified speed gives him legitimate Power 5 starter upside. Continued refinement of pass protection and route running will only increase his value.   Kenan Powell – QB, RB, Miami Springs High Height/Weight: 6'0", 204 lbs Season Stats: 128 att, 1,377 rush yds, 137.7 yds/g, 10.7 avg, 17 TD (10 GP). 3.3 GPA, Miami-Dade County Sophomore Athlete of the Year   Scouting Report: Powell is a strong, athletic dual-threat who dominates with his legs. He runs with good vision, power, and the ability to break multiple tackles. As a quarterback he shows the frame and athleticism to develop into a complete player, but his current impact comes primarily from his explosive running ability.   Analysis: Powell projects as a dynamic dual-threat quarterback or running back hybrid depending on the scheme. His size, production, and toughness already stand out. Improving his passing consistency and pocket presence will determine how high his ceiling climbs.   [player_tooltip player_id='1895282' first='Adrian' last='Cox'] – RB, Immaculata-La Salle High Height/Weight: 5'10", 180 lbs Season Stats: 177 att, 1,073 rush yds, 6.0 avg, 13 rec 101 yds and 2 TDs, 18 TD (12 GP). Offers: FAU   Scouting Report: Cox is a tough, productive runner who shows good burst and the ability to make defenders miss in tight spaces. He runs with solid pad level and contact balance while showing reliable hands out of the backfield. His consistency and finishing ability make him a dependable chain-mover and red-zone threat.   Analysis: Cox projects as a versatile three-down back who can contribute immediately in a spread or zone-based offense. Continued physical development and adding more explosive plays will raise his profile, but his production and early college interest show he is already a reliable performer.   Amir Smith – RB, Lakewood High Height/Weight: 5'8", 180 lbs Season Stats: 104 att, 751 rush yds, 7.2 avg, 1 rec 17 yds, 10 TD (12 GP). 10.9 100m, 480 lbs squat   Scouting Report: Smith is a compact, explosive back with impressive speed and power for his size. He hits the hole quickly, runs hard, and shows the ability to stack yards after contact. His track speed and squat strength translate to sudden burst and tackle-breaking ability in the open field.   Analysis: Smith projects as a dynamic, between-the-tackles runner who can also threaten the edge. Improving his receiving skills and overall consistency will help him handle a bigger role, but his combination of speed, strength, and efficiency give him clear playmaking upside.   Jeremy Douglas – RB, Cardinal Gibbons High Height/Weight: 5'9", 170 lbs Season Stats: 123 att, 713 rush yds, 5.8 avg, 7 rec 74 yds, 6 TD (13 GP). Offers: Marshall University   Scouting Report: Douglas is a quick, elusive runner who shows good vision and the ability to create positive yardage in crowded boxes. He has reliable hands as a receiver and uses his change-of-direction ability to make defenders miss. He plays with toughness and competes on every snap.   Analysis: Douglas projects as a shifty change-of-pace back who fits well in spread offenses. Increasing his workload and adding strength will help him become more of a featured option, but his elusiveness, receiving ability, and early offer already show promise.

Florida has long been a hotbed for high school football talent. Year after year, the Sunshine State produces some of the nation's most electric prospects. From game-breaking speed to next-level agility and pure, raw athleticism, Florida athletes consistently set the tone on Friday nights, and college coaches across the country take notice.