Gage LaDue Gage LaDue 6'1" | 215 lbs | RB Maryville | 2024 State TN has great movement skills at 6-foot-1, 215 pounds out of Maryville High School and is a great combination of traits. Excellent body control and balance, he possesses very good athletic ability all around. LaDue shows good initial burst when see’s the whole open up. Good instincts while running, he dips shoulders to avoid full contact and picks up his feet to stay on his feet. Good strength and finishing in his running style. Overall, he is a very good receiving threat down the field or as a check down option.

Taking over the main role late in the season last year, LaDue was given the opportunity to prove his worth during a short game window and he more than impressed, he established himself as one of the best running backs in this class from the East Tennessee region. Sporting nice size, a broad upper body and good speed, LaDue brings a lot of tools to the playing field that translates well to the next level. College coaches have already taken notice of LaDue as he has picked up a few offers thus far with many schools sniffing around and doing their research into this 6 ‘2 runner. LaDue ranks as the 10th best back in the state at the moment but I could easily see him rise up the rankings after a strong summer camp performance in the coming months.

Pro’s: Sporting great size and low tread on his tires, LaDue is one of the more interesting running back talents in our #TN2024 class and someone that could have a monster breakout senior year. LaDue is a smooth, easy moving runner that provides a nice mix of athleticism and physicality. He has the power and size to lower his shoulder and run you over or run around the defender with his deceptive speed. He also shows explosive traits on film and a burst that allows him to get into the open field quickly. Pass blocking could also become a strength for LaDue over time.Cons: LaDue doesn’t have a lot of experience running the ball as the lead guy, so there is much to learn about this East Tennessee back. Adding more girth and strength is critical as LaDue should take on a heavy load this year and he needs to remain healthy throughout the season.

LaDue is a solid athlete who’s fast enough to outrun defenders to the edge, and has good burst/acceleration to hit the hole. Patient player who lets things develop and makes good decisions. Works well through congestion. Makes pretty sharp cuts when stretching the defense laterally. Nice vision and footwork to recognize and hit cutback lanes. Elusive runner in the hole to make defenders miss one-on-one.