A talented young back on the rise bound for a really strong sophomore season next fall, McClendon is a gifted athlete with good size already for his age at 6-foot-0 200-pounds. Bigger than your typical freshman back, McClendon also shows a strong work ethic in the weight room and on the practice field. He shows quick feet and initial burst that should allow him to make a big impact in the Cartersville rushing attack next season. He ran for 152 yards last season on just 24 carries but should see that workload increase in 2026. He’s ranked by Prep Redzone as the No. 4 RB prospect in the state for his class.

CJ McClendon CJ McClendon 5'11" | 160 lbs | RB Cartersville | 2029 State GA is a promising Class of 2029 running back out of Cartersville High School whose combination of size, athleticism and early varsity experience has made him one of the names to know among Georgia’s young rushers. At about 6-foot and 175–185 pounds with a balanced blend of power and agility, McClendon has shown an ability to handle contact, stay low through tackles, and make defenders miss when he hits the open field — skills that have earned him significant playing time on varsity as a freshman and set the stage for continued growth in the coming seasons.

While he’s still early in the recruiting process and hasn’t compiled a long list of offers yet, C.J.’s visibility has been boosted by his performances and his participation in camps, showcases, and conversations with college coaches. He currently holds an offer from Georgia State but is drawing interest from several programs and attending exposure events — like a recent visit to Jacksonville State — that could help him secure offers from FBS schools over the next couple of years as he continues to develop his game and attract more attention on the trail.

McClendon is ranked as one of our top 2029 RB prospects in Georgia, and for good reason. It’s hard for RBs to fully flash their skillset in these kinds of settings, but I like the frame on McClendon and like how he moves. He is stout, sudden, explosive, and can easily change directions. McClendon has offers under his belt and is a strong breakout candidate this fall.

CJ McClendon CJ McClendon 5'11" | 160 lbs | RB Cartersville | 2029 State GA is an excellent running back and a guy who just knows how to run the ball with an all-around style of play. I love McClendon’s game and just love how he is able to control the ground game. He has it all and will showcase that this weekend at our PRZ Winter Showcase!

A big-time 2029 athlete on the rise who has a very bright future ahead of him, this up-and-coming running back and linebacker for the Cartersville Purple Hurricanes brings plenty of size and runs with authority with the football. He’s one of the fastest 2029 backs in the area and should be a major weapon for Cartersville in the future. He may have to be patient and wait for his time to shine, but his talent is easy to see already. He’s a 2029 back to keep a close eye on over the next few years. He’s ranked by Prep Redzone as the No. 4 RB prospect in the state for his class.

McClendon is a supreme running back and this young back can make plays anywhere on the field from a running back standpoint. He can catch out of the backfield or run it from the line of scrimmage. Either way, you’ll get a ton of great production out of him. He’s an excellent back who will only get better and become a big name in the Peach State at the HS level in the 2029 class.

McClendon is a natural ball carrier who doesn’t waste time when running the ball. Though he shows a level of patience when running, he also knows when and how to burst through lanes. He’s one of the best backs in this 2029 class in Georgia. Lock eyes on his game now!

One of the more dominant running backs in the 2029 class not just in the state of Georgia but i firmly believe you can say he’s one of the best in the entire Country. CJ is a dude who can really take over a game and shift the momentum of a game. He recently had a good, strong showing in the Georgia Elite Classic. McClendon is a name to really follow moving forward, you will not be dissapointed.

One of the most impressive football players I have followed and covered the past two years. He’s the kind of runner that you can put a load on, meaning you can give him 30+ carries due to his durability. He happens to play for a powerhouse program and he fits right in yet stands out with his ability. McClendon is one of the best in the 2029 class regardless of position and regardless of state.

CJ definitely looks the part and has good speed. He climbs the ladder beautifully at the second and third levels. I believe he’s the most high school prepared as far as build. This kids is a work horse who plays two sports at a high performance.