Another physical, hard-running back with power and deceptive speed, Darden is one of the top returning 2027 backs in the Athens area bound for a really productive junior season this fall. As a sophomore last season, Darden gave Oconee County a dependable No. 2 option in the backfield as he ran for 557 yards and nine touchdowns in just eight games. He hit the 100-yard mark twice and ran for at least one touchdown in five of his eight games. He’s now ranked as the No. 44 running back prospect in the state.

One of the fastest-returning backs in the Athens area for the 2027 class, Darden is a quick back with excellent vision, burst, and natural speed, allowing him to hit the hole and take off down the field. He has no problem running behind his pads and can be tough to tackle if not wrapped up properly. This promising back is coming off a strong sophomore season where he ran for 557 yards and nine touchdowns. He was one of the more productive backs for his class in the area last season and could light up the stat sheet as a junior in the fall.