Pearson is a smaller back with plenty of explosive qualities. He runs with excellent pad level, gets downhill in a hurry, and he’s shown an excellent jump cut, especially at the second level. He doesn’t waste much time dancing in the backfield, which is part of the reason he’s able to break off so many big runs. Probably his best attribute is his ability to avoid quality contact. When met in the hole, he’s usually able to slide out of the way, turning potential big hits into arm tackles that he can run through.

The junior class’s leading rusher really in 2025 really impressed us with his vision, burst, and homerun ability, as he ran for nearly 2,000 yards on just over 13 carries a game. He averaged over 11 yards per rush. He uses different speeds to create poor angles as well as any back in the state, which means he thrives in the option game. His film is always a fun study because defenders often look silly when trying to tackle Pearson at the second level.

Amari Pearson Amari Pearson 5'8" | 185 lbs | RB Jacksonville | 2027 State NC once again proved why he’s one of the most electric playmakers in the east, putting together a dynamic Round 3 performance. The standout ATH totaled 14 carries for 122 yards and 3 touchdowns, flashing his trademark burst and open-field explosiveness. Pearson consistently flipped field position, created chunk plays, and gave the defense problems every time he touched the ball. In a playoff atmosphere where big plays decide games, he delivered all night long—cementing himself as a true offensive X-factor for West Craven.

Amari Pearson Amari Pearson 5'8" | 185 lbs | RB Jacksonville | 2027 State NC has been electric all season long, providing highlight after highlight for the undefeated Jacksonville Cardinals. The junior running back has become the spark that ignites their offense, using his burst, vision, and balance to turn routine plays into jaw-dropping touchdowns. His latest score — a jaw-dropping, highlight-worthy run — was another reminder of just how dangerous he can be in open space. As Jacksonville looks to keep their perfect season alive, Pearson will once again be the X-factor. When the ball is in his hands, anything can happen, and his playmaking ability could be the difference between staying unbeaten or facing their first setback.

Pearson waited patiently behind a Power Four running back last year, and he’s stepped in as the clear star on that offense in the first half of 2025. He’s averaging over 12 yards a carry and scoring a touchdown every five touches, a preposterous number for the 6A level.

For Jacksonville, Amari Pearson Amari Pearson 5'8" | 185 lbs | RB Jacksonville | 2027 State NC continues to be the heartbeat of their high-powered offense. The junior running back is coming off multiple dominant performances and has proven himself as one of the most explosive runners in Eastern North Carolina.

Pearson’s blend of vision, balance, and top-end speed makes him a nightmare for defenses. Once he finds a crease, he can take it the distance — as shown in his recent 331-yard, 5-touchdown performance. His consistency and ability to finish runs with power give the Cardinals a reliable spark every time he touches the ball.

If Jacksonville wants to stay unbeaten and hold off a talented J.H. Rose squad, Pearson will once again need to lead the way — setting the tone early and controlling the game’s tempo.

Junior running back Amari Pearson Amari Pearson 5'8" | 185 lbs | RB Jacksonville | 2027 State NC exploded for one of the biggest performances of the season, leading Jacksonville to a huge win over New Bern. Pearson was unstoppable, finishing with 16 carries for 331 yards and five touchdowns — a true statement game against one of the area’s toughest defenses.

His vision and breakaway speed were on full display, turning routine plays into highlight runs all night long. Every time he touched the ball, Pearson looked like a threat to score. This performance firmly cements him as one of the premier running backs in the East.

Pearson has emerged as a steady force in the Cardinals’ backfield, already racking up nearly 500 rushing yards and 8 touchdowns this season. A downhill runner with the burst to create chunk plays, he gives Jacksonville the balance they need to keep defenses honest. Pearson’s production and ability to finish drives in the end zone make him one of the key X-factors for Jacksonville’s success as they push deeper into conference play.

Amari Pearson Amari Pearson 5'8" | 185 lbs | RB Jacksonville | 2027 State NC (RB, Jacksonville, c/o 2027) made the most of every touch in Week 5, racking up 133 yards and 2 touchdowns on just 19 carries. The sophomore back showcased both patience and burst, consistently finding lanes and punishing the defense when he hit the open field. His efficiency stood out, averaging nearly 7 yards per carry, and his ability to finish drives with scores gave Jacksonville a reliable spark in their offensive attack.