SSAA’s Top Returning RBs 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.   Issac Farling – RB, Mount Dora Christian Academy Height/Weight: 6'0", 203 lbs Season Stats: 194 att, 1,721 rush yds, 122.9 yds/g, 8.8 avg, 1 rec 17 yds, 27 TD (14 GP). 1st Team All-State   Scouting Report: Farling is a big, physical running back with excellent vision, burst, and the ability to run through contact. He presses the line patiently, makes decisive cuts, and finishes runs with power and determination. His size and production make him a true bell-cow back who can carry a heavy workload.   Analysis: Farling projects as a featured three-down back with the size and production to handle a featured role in power-gap or spread schemes. His All-State recognition and high touchdown total highlight his scoring ability. Continued refinement as a receiver will make him even more complete at the next level.   [player_tooltip player_id='2140186' first='Banner' last='Brockington'] – RB, Canterbury High Height/Weight: 5'10", 190 lbs Season Stats: 209 att, 1,707 rush yds, 155.2 yds/g, 8.1 avg, 1 rec 9 yds, 11 TD (11 GP)   Scouting Report: Brockington is a high-volume, explosive runner who consistently creates positive yardage with good vision and lateral quickness. He runs hard between the tackles and shows the ability to break tackles and pick up chunk plays. His workload tolerance and per-game average stand out.   Analysis: Brockington projects as a workhorse feature back who thrives in schemes that allow him to get north and south quickly. Adding consistency as a receiver and improving pass protection will expand his role, but his production and toughness already make him a highly productive back.   Elijah LeGrande – RB, Cambridge Christian Academy Height/Weight: 5'11", 190 lbs Season Stats: 229 att, 1,541 rush yds, 110.1 yds/g, 6.7 avg, 6 rec 93 yds and 1 TD, 20 TD (14 GP). 4.52 40 yd, 425 lbs squat   Scouting Report: LeGrande is a strong, well-rounded back who combines power, vision, and speed. He runs with good pad level, contact balance, and the ability to create after contact. His verified speed and squat strength show up in his burst through holes and ability to finish runs violently.   Analysis: LeGrande projects as a physical, three-down back with the tools to be a featured option at the next level. His high carry total, touchdown production, and athletic testing give him strong upside. Continued route development will help him become a complete receiving threat.   Josh Shaw – RB, Trinity Prep Height/Weight: 6'0", 190 lbs Season Stats: 131 att, 1,086 rush yds, 98.7 yds/g, 8.2 avg, 27 rec 349 yds and 4 TDs, 16 total TD (11 GP). 1st Team All-District   Scouting Report: Shaw is a tall, versatile back with good vision and the ability to contribute in both the run and pass game. He shows reliable hands as a receiver out of the backfield and runs with smooth acceleration and balance. His receiving production adds a valuable layer to his game.   Analysis: Shaw projects as a dynamic, three-down back who fits well in spread or pro-style offenses. His receiving numbers and efficiency as a runner highlight his versatility. Adding more physicality between the tackles will help him handle a heavier workload at the next level.   Rayden Butts – RB, Christ's Church Academy Height/Weight: 5'11", 180 lbs Season Stats: 105 att, 913 rush yds, 76.1 yds/g, 8.7 avg, 4 rec 102 yds and 3 TDs, 10 TD (12 GP)   Scouting Report: Butts is a quick, elusive runner with excellent burst and the ability to make defenders miss in space. He shows good vision, patience at the line, and the ability to turn small creases into positive gains. His receiving production shows soft hands and comfort operating outside the backfield.   Analysis: Butts projects as a shifty, change-of-pace back with the potential to develop into a featured option. Improving his strength and consistency in pass protection will help him take on a larger role, but his efficiency, vision, and big-play ability already provide a strong foundation.

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.