Kennedy’s Damarian Orr Damarian Orr 6'0" | 175 lbs | RB Kennedy | 2027 State IA was a prospect we tabbed during the preseason as a player to watch, and he definitely flashed next-level talent. Despite a down year for the Cougars, Orr still rushed 113 times for 624 yards and three touchdowns. Part of what stood out in Damarian’s game was his surprising shifty play, with several great runs in which he worked his way out of close calls or set up defenders in the open field. He is very quick on his feet and can operate in tight quarters and execute sharp jump cuts to bounce runs to the outside. He follows his blocks very well, with great vision and anticipation of where lanes will open. Another aspect of Orr’s game that stood out was his willingness to get his hands dirty as a blocker in pass protection. As the backs mentioned, Damarian is not an easy tackle, as he will stick a hand out or drop his pads to fight through contact.

Orr impressed me when scouting him during the Cougars’ matchup with Dowling Catholic in early October. He’s a decisive runner with the necessary skills for success at the position. Orr gets downhill quickly with the vision and sharp cuts to access holes in the defense. While he’s a taller back, he keeps the pads at a workable level. Orr brings a burst and long strides that can chew up real estate once in the open field. With a frame capable of adding mass and strength without losing his best attributes, Orr has plenty of predictability remaining before reaching his ceiling.

A versatile player that will see the field at running back and as a nickel for the Kennedy defense, Orr is an intense figure. A national champion in boxing, Orr isn’t afraid to dish out hits or take them, even with his six-foot, 175-pound frame.

The Cougars’ nickel defensive package is integral to getting them off the field, as it’s what they most often run on third down. Having an athlete and a hitter the caliber of Orr will help them force opposing teams to give the ball up.

(@DamarianOrr)

Cedar Rapids Kennedy’s Damarian Orr Damarian Orr 6'0" | 175 lbs | RB Kennedy | 2027 State IA is primed to have a big season as the Cougars adjust to having a new signal caller. In a limited role last season, Orr carried the ball 63 times for 314 yards and two touchdowns. Right away, I was very impressed with the burst of speed Damarian displays either when he’s about to hit his gap or when turning upfield after a catch. He flows through traffic extremely well, with a smooth change of direction that helps him cut back and juke without giving up speed. Excellent vision also helps with his ability to weave through defenses with ease. Strong base keeps him upright through contact. Watching some of Orr’s 7v7 clips, it’s clear he could also play slot receiver with his strong hands and twitchy route running. Definitely a guy to start monitoring now!

As the No. 2 back for the Cougars last Fall, Orr rushed for more than 300 yards in his sophomore campaign. He ran for a touchdown and caught a 24-yard score. The performance in a limited role likely foreshadowed what will be a breakout 2025. While Orr is a taller back, he’s elusive as an upright runner, combing sharp cutting with power to make defenders miss in multiple ways. He flows within the offense, allowing blocks to set up and picking his way through traffic. He’s a well-rounded back that also boxes and runs track. You should be intrigued.