Jaden “Scoot” Lewis is one of the most explosive returning running backs in the state regardless of class. The East Bladen standout put together one of the most productive sophomore seasons in North Carolina, scoring over 20 touchdowns while proving to be a game-changing weapon every time he touched the football. Entering 2026, Lewis has set the bar even higher with a goal of averaging more than 250 yards from scrimmage per game. Given his dynamic skill set and ability to impact the game as both a runner and defender, that’s not as far-fetched as it sounds. Lewis is a true home-run threat who can change the momentum of a game in a single play and should once again be one of the Eagles’ biggest difference-makers this fall.

Lewis was on our watchlist in the preseason, as we heard he’d be a likely two-way starter for East Bladen. Somehow, he flew under the radar throughout the season despite one of the best two-way seasons in the 2A class. He picked off four passes as a defensive back and still made the case to move primarily to running back in our system after amassing nearly 1,500 rushing yards. He didn’t simply sneak into the rankings; he jumped quite a few other players in the process.

Jaden “Scoot” Lewis, Class of 2028, is simply a phenomenal athlete. Last season at the high school level, he hauled in four interceptions — and each one showcased his instincts and playmaking ability. Lewis has the versatility to line up in man coverage on the outside at corner, where his quick feet and competitive edge allow him to stay locked in on receivers. He can also slide back to high safety and rake the ball out of the air, tracking it naturally and finishing plays. With his athleticism, range, and ball skills, Scoot is a true difference-maker in the secondary who can impact the game from multiple spots.

Jaden “Scoot” Lewis is one of the most explosive young talents in this program. The East Bladen breakout star put the state on notice this past season, scoring over 20 touchdowns and showing he can flip a game in an instant. Every time he touches the ball, there’s a real chance it’s going the distance.

Scoot is a true speed demon with natural playmaking ability. He primarily plays running back for his school, but in our system, he’ll line up both outside and inside at receiver — a testament to his versatility and football instincts. He’s dynamic in space, sudden in his cuts, and dangerous after the catch.

What makes Lewis special is the burst. It’s not just straight-line speed — it’s how quickly he gets to top gear. He can take a short pass, a jet motion touch, or a swing route and turn it into six. Explosive, confident, and productive, Scoot adds another big-play dimension to this young Sharks offense.

There are plenty of reasons to add players to the rankings in the spring: camp performance, depth chart opportunity, second film review, etc. Our least favorite is when we simply miss somebody. Lewis had an outstanding sophomore season, and we dropped the ball. Offensively, Lewis put up 1,700 scrimmage yards and 21 touchdowns, while he snagged four interceptions as a free safety. Expect him to be firmly in the rankings next update.