1A’s Returning Backfield Stars — C/O 2028

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='1073722' first='Kameron' last='Battle'] – RB, DB, Carrollwood Day Height/Weight: 5'10", 185 lbs Season Stats: 239 att, 2,036 rush yds, 169.7 yds/g, 8.52 avg, 19 rec 334 yds and 6 TDs, 21 TD (12 GP). FACA District 15 1A Player of the Year, nearly 35 scholarship offers   Scouting Report: Battle is a highly productive, explosive running back who combines vision, burst, and power. He runs with excellent pad level, consistently creates yardage after contact, and shows the ability to break big runs. As a receiver he tracks the ball well and adds value out of the backfield, while flashing defensive versatility at DB.   Analysis: Battle projects as a premier three-down back with the talent to contribute immediately at the collegiate level. His workload, efficiency, and massive offer list already highlight his elite production and playmaking ability. Continued refinement in pass protection will only increase his value.   Marcelo Carrion – CB, HB, Archbishop Carroll High Height/Weight: 5'10", 170 lbs Season Stats: 140 att, 1,032 rush yds, 7.37 avg, 1 rec 17 yds, 9 TD (11 GP). Honorable Mention All-Dade honors (Miami Herald)   Scouting Report: Carrion is a quick, elusive runner with good acceleration and the ability to make defenders miss in tight spaces. He shows solid vision between the tackles and flashes playmaking ability on the perimeter. His cornerback background gives him confidence in open space and reliable ball skills.   Analysis: Carrion projects as a shifty change-of-pace back with defensive versatility. Increasing his physical strength and expanding his receiving role will help him handle a larger offensive workload, but his efficiency and all-district recognition show he is already a dependable contributor.   Antonio Thomas – DE, RB, Carrollwood Day Height/Weight: 6'3", 238 lbs Season Stats: 100 att, 927 rush yds, 9.27 avg, 15 TD (13 GP). Holds 38 scholarship offers   Scouting Report: Thomas is a big, physical specimen who runs with surprising speed and power for his size. He presses the line with authority, breaks tackles with ease, and finishes runs violently. His defensive line frame and athleticism allow him to be a matchup nightmare on both sides of the ball.   Analysis: Thomas projects as a high-upside power back or edge hybrid with legitimate Power 5 potential. His combination of size, production, and massive offer list is impressive. Refining his consistency as a receiver will help maximize his ceiling.   Dylan Galadza – HB, Archbishop Carroll High Height/Weight: 6'1", 165 lbs Season Stats: 78 att, 806 rush yds, 10.3 avg, 1 rec 24 yds, 14 TD (11 GP)   Scouting Report: Galadza is a tall, long-striding back with impressive top-end speed and burst. He hits the hole decisively and shows the ability to pull away from defenders in the open field. Despite his leaner frame, he runs hard and finishes with toughness.   Analysis: Galadza projects as a vertical threat and change-of-pace back in spread offenses. Adding strength and improving his ability to run between the tackles will determine how much volume he can handle, but his per-carry efficiency and big-play ability give him clear upside.   Levi Ritter – RB, MLB, Episcopal School of Jacksonville Height/Weight: 5'8", 170 lbs Season Stats: 142 att, 774 rush yds, 5.45 avg, 1 rec 27 yds, 10 TD (11 GP). Northeast Florida High School Football Player of the Week (SI – August 2025)   Scouting Report: Ritter is a compact, high-motor runner who shows excellent vision and competitive toughness. He runs with low pad level, fights for extra yards, and consistently moves the chains. His linebacker experience translates to strong instincts and physicality when the play goes sideways.   Analysis: Ritter projects as a reliable feature back or two-way contributor who excels in physical schemes. While not the biggest back, his efficiency, work rate, and leadership traits stand out. Continued physical development will help him take on a heavier workload.   Paighten Degree – RB, Orlando Christian Prep Height/Weight: 5'8", 170 lbs Season Stats: 115 att, 556 rush yds, 4.84 avg, 6 rec 94 yds, 3 TD (11 GP)   Scouting Report: Degree is a patient, shifty runner with good lateral quickness and the ability to find creases. He shows solid hands as a receiver and operates comfortably in space. His balance and competitive nature allow him to pick up yards after initial contact.   Analysis: Degree projects as a versatile, scheme-fit back who can contribute in zone schemes and on third downs. Increasing his explosive play total and adding strength will raise his ceiling, but his vision and receiving ability already provide a solid foundation for continued development.

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.