One of the more well-known backs in the Cedar Rapids metro, Carter Hoffmann Carter Hoffmann 6'0" | 180 lbs | ATH Xavier | 2026 State IA proved why on Friday. A hard runner that punishes opposing defenses for arm tackles and keeps his legs churning through contact, Hoffmann is one of the primary reasons the Saints are among the favorites to win the 4A title this fall.

A back who almost always reaches the second or third level of the defense, Hoffmann is a fun back for his offensive line to block for, as he’ll dish out punishment in addition to the OL plowing the way up front. A hard runner that is no fun to tackle, Hoffmann is one of those “He’s getting another carry?” backs that defenses get tired of accounting for as the game goes on.

In Friday’s big win, he took just 14 carries for 96 yards and two scores — but he’s capable of much more than that if and when needed.

The top returning rusher in 4A back this season, Carter Hoffman served as the bell cow running back for Cedar Rapids Xavier’s offense last year, taking 197 carries for 1,278 yards and 11 touchdowns.

A smooth mover in and out of cuts, Hoffman has a strong lower body that’s tough to bring down. Not the fastest running back in the state, Hoffman drives his legs through tackles and shakes them off with ease. Putting some weight on his frame, Hoffman could project to fullback or linebacker at the next level, or if he dedicates a few years to his speed, could be a feature back for a Division 2 program.

Xavier players are sound fundamentally and play with a high degree of toughness. Hoffman fits that mold while also adding versatility and athleticism. As a junior in 2024, he rushed for 1,278 yards (6.5 YPC) and 11 touchdowns, caught 23 passes for 196 yards and a score, and completed his only two passes, one of which went for a TD. We can witness the potential while watching his junior highlight video. He can be both electric and powerful with the ball in his hands. Hoffman’s cutting ability, speed and acceleration make him a productive running back and are skills that could work at other positions.