Illinois’ Class of 2028: Running Backs Ready to Break Out

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Every recruiting cycle features a handful of running backs who emerge after a strong sophomore or junior season. The Class of 2028 is no different. While these backs are still early in their high school careers, they've already flashed the athletic ability and physical tools that make them intriguing long-term prospects. As they gain varsity experience and continue to develop, these are five Illinois running backs to keep an eye on.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='2005859' first='Cooper' last='Kisgen'] | Freeburg</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Kisgen is one of the more intriguing young backs in Southern Illinois. His physical style and willingness to run between the tackles give him the foundation to become a dependable every-down back. As he continues to develop his overall game, he has the potential to become one of the top players in his region.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Wyatt Gibbs | Edwardsville</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Playing in one of the state's premier football programs provides valuable experience, and Gibbs has an opportunity to develop behind strong competition. His athletic ability and upside make him a prospect worth monitoring as he earns more opportunities on Friday nights.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Evan Brooks | Southwestern</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Brooks enters his high school career with an exciting combination of athleticism and developmental potential. Running backs often make tremendous strides early in high school, and Brooks has the opportunity to establish himself as one of the better young playmakers in Southwestern Illinois.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">John Holloway | Triad</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Holloway brings an intriguing combination of size and versatility to the backfield. His ability to contribute in multiple phases of the game gives him long-term upside, and another year of development could make him one of the more talked-about backs in the Metro East.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Eli Miller | Granite City</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Miller rounds out this group as a tough, physical running back with plenty of room to grow. As he continues gaining experience and refining the details of his game, he has the chance to become an important offensive weapon for Granite City and a player recruiters begin tracking over the next few seasons.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->