Top Running Backs
Class of 2027 -- ranked by measurables, physical ceiling, and recruiting validation
Mesh to B Gap: Our RB Metric
We time every back from the mesh point in gun to the B gap because it’s the one gap that matters in virtually every run concept (inside zone, gap power, counter, duo), making it a true apples-to-apples comparison across schemes and competition levels. From gun, the extra depth amplifies differences that get compressed under center, and there’s no running start to mask deficiencies. One number captures five attributes simultaneously: explosiveness, lateral movement, vision, decision-making speed, and path efficiency. We’ve seen verified sub-10.7 hundred-meter sprinters post slower times than less explosive backs because they took worse angles and processed slower. This metric separates football players from track athletes.
State rushing leader with 2,001 yards at 11.5 YPC and a verified 4.49 forty — elite processing speed (1.21 B-gap time) separates him from every other back in this class. Undersized at 5'9" 185 but the NAU offer, 99-yard long run, and 30 TDs validate a legitimate FCS/low-G5 featured back projection.
The 1.21 B-gap time is the fastest in this class by a significant margin and reflects elite-level processing, not just speed. Mangrum does not take false reads. Where most Colorado backs will see a frontside B gap flash open on inside zone, attack it, watch it fill, then bounce outside and try to outrun pursuit, Mangrum reads the fill and cuts back. On film, there is a scoring play where the strong safety is filling the frontside B gap at full speed from depth. Mangrum identifies it pre-contact, redirects to backside A through a tight window, and scores when his tackle executes a second-level block. That is not athleticism. That is processing. End-around mesh-to-perimeter times are consistently under 1.5 seconds. The verified 4.49 forty and 11.5 YPC confirm the breakaway speed is real. Concern: 5'9" 185 is undersized for featured-back roles at P5. The 56-13 loss to Grand Junction was the only test against a physical, athletic defense. A college coach who watches this film with a stopwatch will see what we see.
Fastest verified athlete in the class (4.36 forty, 10.71 100m) with 1,601 yards and 20 TDs at 5A — Harvard and Yale offers plus PRZ Showcase MVP confirm elite tools. Field vision and interior decision-making need refinement, but the athletic ceiling is the highest among Colorado RBs.
The fastest straight-line athlete in this class -- 10.71 100m is verified elite long speed. Outside speed is remarkable and he is one of the most difficult ball carriers to bring down in the state. The 1.32 B-gap time is strong but notably 0.11 seconds slower than Mangrum despite being the faster athlete in a straight line. That gap is entirely path efficiency and decision-making. Releford has a tendency to try to out-athlete the defense rather than take the schematically correct hole. At 1:39 of his Hudl highlight, the correct read is backside B gap -- instead he bounces frontside outside. He scores because he's faster than everyone on the field, but against an evenly matched defense the Mike fills the alley and it's a TFL. This is a recurring pattern. Concern: Field vision at the line of scrimmage is the primary developmental area. The athletic tools are elite -- the processing needs to catch up. All-State at 5A as a junior validates production. If the gap discipline improves during his senior season, his stock rises significantly.
The most complete back in this class from a full-game perspective — runs, blocks, picks up blitzes, and reads the field at an advanced level with 1,533 yards and 20 TDs as a junior. Verified 10.68 100m confirms elite long speed; the 165-lb frame projects to 190+ and a 365 squat at that weight shows explosive lower-body power.
Physical, downhill runner who initiates contact and runs through it. Consistently runs with low pad level and will lower his shoulder to maintain a direct line upfield rather than dancing laterally. Has the athleticism to hurdle or avoid defenders but chooses contact when it keeps him on his north-south track. Good field vision -- consistently takes A gap on inside zone when there's space to get to the second level. The differentiator: Payne is an excellent blitz pickup back who reads inside-out for threats and steps up to protect pocket integrity. Willing and effective as a blocker. The most well-rounded back in this class from a complete-game perspective. Running, blocking, pass protection, and vision all grade out well. Concern: 5'11" 165 is light, but the 365 squat at that body weight confirms explosive lower-body power, and the frame projects to 190+ without losing speed.
Best frame in the class at 6'1" 205 with legitimate two-way production (609 rush yards, 11 TDs, 64 tackles, 12 TFL, 2 INTs) in 5A — South Dakota offer validates the talent. Lines up split out as a receiver and projects as a college LB/H-back hybrid; needs to fix pad level but the tools and football IQ are real.
Accelerates extremely well through the hole once he commits -- the 1.61 B-gap time undersells his burst at the second level. Great field vision tracking blockers and finding space in traffic. Makes decisive zone cuts and trusts his reads. Lines up split out and functions as a legitimate receiver -- consistently finds soft spots in zone coverage on scramble drills. Shows a quality inside pass rush move and good ball awareness in zone drops. Concern: Runs high on both sides of the ball -- upright through contact as a runner and doesn't always drive through tackles on defense. At 6'2" 205 with room to add weight, a college S&C program can address pad level. Projects as a college LB or H-back who can also carry the ball in short yardage. South Dakota offer validates the talent.
PRZ's #9 overall prospect in Colorado 2027 at 6'1" 180 with Denver Post recognition and Blue-Grey combine invite — the recruiting validation is significant despite modest rushing stats (390 yards). Projects as a LB/S at the next level with 75 tackles, and his offensive versatility gives him scheme flexibility that colleges value.
True workhorse who handled 260 carries for 1,537 yards and 18 TDs at 5A Pine Creek — the volume and competition level are impressive. However, 4.87 forty and 1.79 B-gap time expose a lack of explosive burst that caps his ceiling; projects as an FCS/D2 committee back in a short-yardage role.
An exceptionally smart football player with excellent patience and field vision. Lukes wins on timing, pad level, and build speed -- he lets his blocks develop and hits lanes at the right moment. The 5'10" 205 frame is college-ready now and he has produced as a true workhorse (260 carries) at 5A. Concern: The 1.79 B-gap time is the slowest in this class and reflects a lack of explosive first-step burst that limits his ceiling. The 4.69 forty is consistent with what shows on film -- there is no hidden gear. At 5.9 YPC behind a good Pine Creek O-line, the efficiency is below what you'd expect from a back getting that volume. He will not outrun college-level pursuit to the edge. Projects best at FCS or D2 in a committee or short-yardage role.
Explosive multi-sport athlete with verified 11.30 100m track speed and 1,058 scrimmage yards in only 8 games — the 88-yard TD run and 65-yard TD reception show home-run ability from multiple alignments. At 5'10" 192 with elite strength numbers, he has FCS upside but needs camp exposure and NCAA registration immediately.
Lyric Wynn is a physically mature, explosive multi-sport athlete with verified track speed and impressive strength numbers who had a breakout junior season as a true dual-threat weapon (1,058 scrimmage yards, 9 TDs in 8 games). His combination of 5'10" 192 lbs with a 11.30 electronic 100m and elite weight room numbers gives him a legitimate FCS/low-end FBS ceiling, but he needs verified camp testing, exposure at elite camps, and to register with the NCAA Eligibility Center immediately to get on D1 radars before his senior season.
Verified elite track speed (10.88 100m, All-State sophomore) with 14.4 YPC on limited touches and an 94-yard TD run — the big-play ability is undeniable. At 5'11" 178 he's a slot/nickel prospect more than a featured RB, but the speed, 3.8 GPA, and two-way contribution profile projects well at FCS.
Abbott Lockwood is a dynamic, speed-based multi-position athlete with verified elite track speed (10.88 100m as a sophomore) and impressive big-play production on both sides of the ball. His physical tools, football pedigree, weight room numbers, and 3.8 GPA make him an intriguing FCS or low-level Group of 5 prospect as a slot receiver or nickel corner. He needs a big senior season with increased receiving volume, a strong camp circuit with verified testing numbers, and 10-15 lbs of added weight to push into the D1 scholarship conversation.
Dramatic 843% year-over-year rushing improvement to 1,378 yards at 6.8 YPC with a prototypical 6'1" 180 frame that has room to grow. The semifinal dip against Elizabeth's defense is a fair concern, and the lack of verified speed testing is the biggest unknown — a 4.5-4.6 forty at camps changes everything.
Jackson Savona's sophomore-to-junior statistical leap (146 yards to 1,378 yards, for those of you who don't want to do math, that's an 843% increase, which is the kind of number that makes you check if someone accidentally added a digit) is legitimately one of the more dramatic year-over-year jumps we've tracked in Colorado, and the 6.8 YPC on 204 carries tells you it wasn't just volume inflation from a team that had nobody else to hand it to. The 75-yard long run confirms there's a gear, and the size at 6'1" 180 with a multi-sport background gives you something to dream on. But here's where we pump the brakes a little: the Elizabeth semifinal game (16 carries, 79 yards, no touchdowns) is sitting right there on the stat sheet, and that was against the best team he faced all year, which is exactly the kind of game college coaches are going to pull up first. The 2A classification is what it is. We're not going to pretend that Fort Morgan and Platte Valley are running out Big 12 athletes, and until Savona gets verified speed testing at camps this summer, we're projecting based on film speed and long-run evidence rather than hard data, which is like trying to judge a car by the sound of the engine instead of just looking at the speedometer. The receiving game is essentially nonexistent (6 catches, 36 yards, zero touchdowns on the season), and at the next level, a running back who can't threaten out of the backfield as a pass catcher is a running back who comes off the field on third down. The defensive production as a sophomore (88 tackles, 3 sacks, 3 INTs) shows legitimate football IQ and two-way value, which matters for smaller programs looking at guys who can contribute immediately in multiple phases. Bottom line: if he runs a verified 4.5 to 4.6 at camps this summer, we're having a completely different conversation about his ceiling, and FCS programs in particular should be paying attention before that happens. If the forty comes back 4.7-plus, the path narrows considerably and you're looking more at a D2 feature back who dominates at that level, which frankly isn't a bad outcome for a kid out of Eaton who nobody was talking about 18 months ago.
The receiving breakout (4 catches as a sophomore to 28 for 278 yards and 3 TDs as a junior) shows legitimate pass-catching development that separates him as a modern three-down back. At 5'9" 175 with 6.8 YPC, he's efficient but needs verified speed testing and NCAA registration to open doors.
Michael Kelly is a productive two-way back out of University HS (Greeley, CO) who has shown clear year-over-year improvement, particularly as a receiver out of the backfield -- jumping from 4 catches as a sophomore to 28 catches for 278 yards and 3 TDs as a junior. At 5'9" 175, he's a compact, efficient runner averaging 6.8 YPC with the versatility to line up at free safety on defense. His senior season will be critical to establishing verified measurables and demonstrating he can sustain production against stronger competition.
Intriguing physical profile at 6'3" 195 with All-State First Team honors, 12.6 YPC, and 148 tackles on defense — dominates 6-man on both sides of the ball. Self-reported 4.6 forty needs verification, and the massive gap from 6-man to college football requires camp exposure, but the frame and two-way production make him a sleeper.
Klinzmann is a highly productive 6-man football athlete with intriguing physical traits at 6'3" 195 lbs and legitimate two-way dominance at the small-school level. His All-State First Team selection, 1,300+ all-purpose yards as a junior, and ball-hawking defensive instincts (5 INTs as a sophomore) demonstrate elite talent relative to his competition. However, the massive leap from Colorado 6-man to D1 football requires verified speed testing, exposure at camps/combines, and ideally 11-man film before any FBS/FCS program can seriously evaluate him -- he profiles as an intriguing small-school sleeper who needs to get on the camp circuit immediately.
Physically imposing 6'2" 220 with elite strength numbers (475 deadlift, 370 squat) and 1,106 rushing yards at 6.4 YPC — the frame and power translate to TE/FB/OLB at the next level. Needs verified speed testing desperately; if he runs 4.7s he's a legitimate FCS recruit at multiple positions.
Jackson Bjorum is a physically imposing 6'2" 220 lb multi-sport athlete who dominated Colorado 1A as a junior with 1,106 rushing yards and 9 TDs while contributing 41 tackles on defense. His frame, strength numbers (475 lb deadlift, 370 lb squat), 6'6" wingspan, and self-projected position versatility (DE/OLB/TE/FB) give him an intriguing physical ceiling, but the lack of verified speed testing and the small-school competition level make it impossible to project a D1 level without camp exposure. He needs to attend FCS/D2 camps this summer to get timed and evaluated against higher-caliber athletes -- if he runs in the 4.7s range he could be a legitimate FCS recruit at TE, FB, or OLB.
College-ready frame at 6'1" 230 with All-State First Team honors, 96 tackles, 11 TFL, and 687 rushing yards at 7.2 YPC — projects as a linebacker with his wrestling background and rare movement skills for his size. Needs verified speed testing to determine if he's FCS or D2, but the physical tools are immediately projectable.
Pridemore is a physically imposing two-way player at 6'1" 230 lbs with rare movement skills for his size — PRZ scouts note very good acceleration, balance, and change of direction. His junior season production on both sides of the ball (687 rushing yards, 8 total TDs, 96 tackles, 11 TFL, 2 sacks, 1 INT) and All-State First Team recognition demonstrate high-level football instincts and motor. He projects as a linebacker at the next level with the frame and physicality to play immediately, and his wrestling background adds functional strength and competitiveness that translate to the college game.
Highly productive 3A back who doubled his output to 1,412 yards at 7.6 YPC with elite agility numbers (4.26 shuttle, 7.19 L-drill) and multiple 50+ yard scoring runs. Size (5'9" 175) and speed (4.59 forty) likely cap him at FCS/high-D2, but he's done everything right with camps at Power 5 schools and strong academics.
Noah Chapala is a highly productive, high-character running back who has shown significant year-over-year improvement (677 yards as a sophomore to 1,412 as a junior at 7.6 YPC). His combine-tested agility (4.26 shuttle, 7.19 L-drill) and vision are legitimate D1 traits, but his size (5'9" 175) and speed (4.59 laser 40) likely cap his ceiling at the FCS/high-end D2 level. He's done everything right -- camps at Power 5 programs, strong academics, leadership -- and deserves more recruiting attention than he's currently getting.
Massive sophomore-to-junior leap from 299 yards to 1,135 yards at 6.7 YPC in 5A with a good 6'0" 185 frame and two-way contributions (46 tackles). The lack of verified speed, minimal receiving, and winless program context limit projection, but the physical tools and development trajectory suggest D2/FCS upside.
Hargrove is an intriguing late-developing RB prospect who made a massive statistical jump from sophomore to junior year, going from a role player to the clear offensive engine with 1,135 rushing yards at 6.7 YPC. His physical, downhill running style and two-way contributions at LB show football character, but the lack of verified speed testing, minimal receiving production, and playing on winless/weak programs make it difficult to project his ceiling against higher-level competition. He profiles as a D2/NAIA prospect with FCS upside if he can get verified speed numbers and show passing-game versatility at camps this offseason.
Dominant 8-man two-way player with 1,673 yards and 82 tackles who tripled his rushing output from sophomore to junior year — the wrestling background (100+ career wins) confirms elite toughness and functional strength. At 5'9" 170 with a 4.81 forty, the position at the next level is the question, but the motor and physicality profile for a small-college athlete.
Owen Harris is a high-motor, two-way football player who dominated Colorado 8-Man football as a junior with 1,673 rushing yards and 17 TDs while also posting 82 tackles, 12 TFL, and 5 sacks on defense. At 5'9" 170 lbs with a 245 lb bench press, he possesses legitimate functional strength and contact balance that fuel his 7.7 YPC average. His position at the next level will likely need to shift from his current RB/DE role -- he projects as an athlete with the toughness, two-way versatility, and competitive drive to contribute in a scheme that values effort and physicality.
Pittsburgh offer and school tackle record (122 tackles, 8 TFL, 3 sacks) at Cherokee Trail validate him as a D1 linebacker prospect at 5'10" 185 with elite weight room numbers (440 squat, 275 clean). Listed as RB but clearly projects as an inside linebacker — undersized frame needs 15-20 lbs but the defensive production and offer sheet are legitimate.
Nico Mavromat put up 122 total tackles as a junior linebacker in 5A Centennial League play, which for those keeping score at home is top 16 in the entire state and top 9 in 5A, and he did it at Cherokee Trail against a schedule that included Cherry Creek, Eaglecrest, Grandview, and Arapahoe, so nobody's inflating numbers against the local JV squad here. The ThunderRidge game (17 total tackles in a 21-11 win) is the one we keep coming back to because when you watch a linebacker rack up 10 solos and 7 assists in a low-scoring defensive slugfest, that's a kid who is filling every gap the offense is trying to exploit, flowing sideline to sideline and arriving with bad intentions before the running back even gets to the line of scrimmage. Pittsburgh clearly saw the same thing because they handed him his first D1 offer, and we don't think Pitt is in the business of offering kids out of charity. The verified testing backs up what the film shows: 4.44 shuttle, 8'7" broad jump, and a 7.69 L-drill all point to legitimate change-of-direction athleticism and explosiveness, which tracks with the coverage ability you see on tape (smooth backpedal, fluid hips, the kind of stuff that makes offensive coordinators nervous about checking down to the back). Now, the honest part: 5'10" 185 (and MaxPreps has him at 5'9" 170, which, pick a number guys) is a real conversation at the next level because college offensive linemen are going to outweigh him by 130 pounds and that's just physics. The wingspan at 6'0" is fine but not going to bail him out in traffic the way a longer linebacker's would. He also played on a Cherokee Trail team that went 4-7, and while the individual production is undeniable, the Cherry Creek game (5 solo, 3 assists, zero TFL against the best offense on the schedule) is worth noting alongside the ThunderRidge explosion game because college coaches are going to ask how he holds up when the talent across the line of scrimmage jumps a level. That said, the instincts are legit, the motor never stops (6 QB pressures from a linebacker tells you he's not just reading and reacting, he's hunting), and the forced fumble, 2 recoveries, and interception show ball-hawking awareness that you either have or you don't. If he can get to 200 without losing that 4.44 shuttle quickness, we think Pitt is going to have company on that offer list by August.
Efficient 3A workhorse with 1,211 yards at 7.2 YPC plus 471 return yards, showing consistent production (five 100+ yard games) and an 80-yard long run confirming breakaway speed. The complete absence of measurables is the biggest gap — camp testing this summer will determine if he's FCS-caliber or D2.
Gregory Moore is a productive, high-efficiency running back who posted 1,211 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns on 7.2 YPC as a junior in Colorado 3A, while also providing value as a kick and punt returner (1,688 all-purpose yards). He showed significant growth from sophomore to junior year -- tripling his workload while maintaining elite efficiency and eliminating fumble issues. The missing piece is verified measurables; his 80-yard long run and punt return TD suggest legitimate speed, but camp-tested numbers would allow a more complete physical projection.
Ideal frame at 6'2" 190 with room to grow to 210+ — 567 yards at 7.8 YPC with a 60-yard long and 30 tackles on defense show two-way ability from a first-year starter. No verified testing and 1A competition mean he needs camps immediately, but the size and efficiency numbers make him a developmental prospect worth tracking.
Judah Howe is a 6'2" 190 lb two-way athlete with an ideal frame to continue adding mass through his senior year and beyond. His junior breakout -- 567 rushing yards on 7.8 YPC with 8 TDs and a 60-yard long run -- shows a runner who can create explosive plays while also contributing 30 tackles, 3 TFL, and 3 sacks on defense. He projects as a physical, downhill runner with the length and frame to grow into a 210-215 lb back at the college level, and his multi-sport background (varsity baseball, LHP) supports overall athleticism and coordination.
Well-built 5'11" 190 back at 5A Regis Jesuit who nearly doubled his rushing output (429 to 718 yards) while improving YPC from 3.5 to 5.9, with 16 catches for 219 yards showing genuine receiving ability. Scout praise for vision, jump cuts, and pass protection suggests a versatile, scheme-adaptable back who needs verified testing to complete the picture.
Pron is a well-built, productive two-way back at 5'11" 190 lbs who made a significant jump from sophomore to junior year, nearly doubling his rushing yardage while improving his YPC from 3.5 to 5.9. Scout evaluations consistently praise his vision, jump-cut ability, and natural pass-catching skills out of the backfield -- he projects as a versatile, scheme-adaptable back who can contribute on all three downs. His defensive contributions (30 tackles, 2 PD) and rugby background speak to his physicality and competitive temperament; verified athletic testing would help complete the picture on his speed and explosiveness.
Compact, powerful sophomore two-way producer with 869 yards at 7.4 YPC, 73 tackles, and exceptional strength numbers (245 bench, 350 squat at 180 lbs) — the 79-yard long run shows breakaway speed exists. At 5'7" 180, frame limits position projection, but the physicality and two-way production at 4A as a sophomore warrant a long look.
Ramirez is a compact, powerful two-way player who produced at a high level as a sophomore in Colorado 4A -- 869 rushing yards at 7.4 YPC with 12 TDs, plus 73 tackles, 6 TFL, and 2 sacks on defense. His reported strength numbers (245 bench, 350 squat) are exceptional for a 5'7" 180 lb sophomore, and his 94-yard long run shows legitimate breakaway speed. The biggest question is whether his frame can carry enough weight to absorb punishment at the next level, but his combination of power, production on both sides of the ball, and physicality make him a player worth tracking through his junior season.
Prolific 6-man producer with 1,441 rushing yards at 10.2 YPC and 28 catches for 450 yards showing legitimate pass-catching ability (16.1 YPR). At 5'10" 170 with no verified speed and extremely low competition, he's a small-college candidate who needs weight and camp numbers to enter the FCS conversation.
Brody Silvey is a productive small-school running back who dominates at the 6-man/8-man level in Colorado with elite rushing numbers (1,441 yds, 22 TDs, 10.2 YPC as a junior). However, at 5'10" 170 lbs with no verified speed testing, no recruiting interest, and playing against extremely low-level competition at Hoehne, he is not a realistic D1 FBS prospect at this time. He could develop into a small-college (NAIA/D3) candidate if he adds weight and posts strong verified speed numbers at camps during his senior year.
Versatile two-way contributor at Bear Creek with 823 rush yards, 344 receiving yards (26 catches, 13.2 YPR), and 32 tackles with 2 INTs — the receiving production at 4A adds real value. Undersized at possibly 5'9" 155 and no verified testing, but the three-phase skillset is intriguing for developmental programs.
Dt Thomas (Dylan Thomas) is a productive two-way player at Bear Creek (CO) who put up solid junior season numbers (823 rush yards, 344 receiving yards, 12 total TDs, 32 tackles, 2 INTs) but faces significant hurdles to D1 recruitment. His undersized frame (likely closer to 5'9" 155 than the listed 5'10" 165), lack of verified speed testing, and absence from the camp/combine circuit leave him with no recruiting profile or offers heading into his senior year. He needs to aggressively attend camps, get verified measurables, and build out his Hudl film to generate FCS or D2 interest.
Dynamic pass-catcher who put up 37 catches for 687 yards (18.6 YPR) and 8 TDs as a junior after transferring to a lower classification — the receiving production is the best in this class. At 5'11" 175 with self-reported 4.6 speed, he projects more as a slot receiver than RB; needs verified testing and stronger competition to validate.
Custis is a dynamic, undersized athlete who has shown significant development trajectory -- going from a part-time RB/LB as a sophomore at Overland (5A) to a dominant all-purpose weapon as a junior at Montbello (4A) with over 1,100 all-purpose yards and 11 total TDs. His 18.6 YPR average on 37 catches suggests legitimate big-play speed and route-running ability, but the lack of verified measurables, no recruiting service attention, and questions about competition level make him a developmental prospect best suited for FCS or D2 programs at this stage with upside if he tests well at camps this offseason.
Dynamic 1A athlete with an elite 9.1 YPC, 16 TDs on just 83 carries, 8 career INTs on defense, and 2,668 career all-purpose yards — the efficiency and ball-hawking instincts are real. At 5'11" 160 he needs 15-20 lbs and verified speed testing, but the year-over-year improvement trajectory is encouraging.
Humrich is a dynamic, undersized runner who has shown dramatic improvement each season, culminating in a 758-yard, 16-TD junior campaign at 9.1 YPC with an 80-yard long. He possesses outstanding balance, vision, and acceleration that allow him to break tackles and rip off chunk plays consistently. His two-way value as a ball-hawking safety (8 career INTs) and dangerous return man (2,668 career all-purpose yards) adds significant roster flexibility. The key developmental priority is adding weight to his projectable 5'11" frame -- at 160 lbs he'll need 15-20 more pounds to absorb college-level contact.
Best projection is as a safety/OLB hybrid at 6'1" 175 with verified agility (4.52 shuttle, 7.18 L-drill) and 69 tackles on defense — scout praise for backpedal, hip fluidity, and physicality in the run game. The 4.4 YPC rushing average limits his RB ceiling, but the frame and defensive traits project well at FCS with 15-20 added pounds.
Colin Meier is a 6'1" 175 lb two-way player out of Colorado 4A who projects as a safety/OLB hybrid at the college level, with the frame and verified agility (4.52 shuttle, 7.18 L-drill) to develop into a box safety or strong safety. His junior-year defensive production -- 69 tackles, 1 TFL, 1 FF, and a blocked punt -- paired with a scout evaluation praising his backpedal, hip fluidity, and physicality in the run game suggests a player whose defensive ceiling may exceed his offensive projection. At 175 lbs with a 6'2" wingspan and multi-sport athleticism, there is clear room to add 15-20 lbs and grow into a college-ready frame.
Compact 5'10" 185 physical runner with 1,520 career rushing yards at 5.8 YPC and freshman-to-junior varsity experience — scouts praise his explosive first step, vision, and yards-after-contact ability. Needs verified speed testing to determine if the burst translates beyond 3A; the two-way MLB experience (62 tackles, 6 TFL as a sophomore) adds value.
Evan Holdridge is a compact, physical running back at 5'10" 185 lbs who has been a varsity contributor since his freshman year, accumulating over 1,500 career rushing yards at 5.8 YPC. His Prep Redzone evaluation highlights an explosive first step, strong vision, downhill power, and yards-after-contact ability — a blend of finesse and physicality. His two-way experience at MLB (62 tackles, 6 TFL, 2 INT as a sophomore) speaks to his football IQ and toughness. With his senior season ahead, verified speed testing would help quantify what scouts already see on film.
All-State LB/TE at 6'0" 215 with 73 tackles, 8 TFL, 2 sacks, and a championship-game INT — the 4.4 shuttle shows adequate short-area quickness for a downhill ILB. Minimal RB stats (2 carries) mean he's purely a defensive/TE prospect, but the All-State nod at 4A Palmer Ridge and verified testing give him a FCS linebacker floor.
State champion contributor with elite 8.7 YPC and 27 career rushing TDs in 25 games — the efficiency and scoring instincts are real. At 5'8" 155 with no verified testing, the frame is a significant concern, but his shiftiness, vision, and production on a 13-0 team suggest a small-college feature back with FCS sleeper potential if he adds weight.
Kisner is a highly productive, shifty running back who was a key contributor on a dominant 13-0 Colorado 2A state championship team. His 8.7 YPC as a junior and 27 career rushing TDs in 25 varsity games demonstrate elite production, but his 5'6"-5'8" frame at 155 lbs and lack of verified athletic testing data make D1 FBS projection very difficult. He projects best as a small-college (D2/D3/NAIA) feature back who could earn FCS looks if he adds weight and posts strong camp numbers heading into his senior season.
Compact, strong back with 7.2 YPC, a 68-yard long run, and exceptional weight room numbers (280 bench at 173 lbs) — the relative strength is elite for his size. Will benefit from a senior year with better offensive line and QB talent around him; needs to add weight to his 5'8" frame and develop as a receiver to project beyond D2.
Makai Major is a compact, strong running back with legitimate breakaway speed who has been a three-year varsity contributor at Timnath. His 7.2 YPC average as a junior and explosive long-run ability (68-yard carry) show he can hit a crease and take it the distance, and his weight-room numbers (280 bench, 15 reps at 185) are exceptional for a 173-lb back. His senior year will be critical to evaluate his ability to handle a heavier workload and develop as a receiver out of the backfield. Should benefit from having a top QB and several senior offensive linemen around him. Exceptionally tough runner with a high upside.
Compact 5'7" 192 lb two-way warrior with 102 tackles and 8.4 YPC on offense — the tackling production is elite and the efficiency shows burst through the hole. Size is a hard ceiling for D1, but the physicality, low center of gravity, and defensive instincts project well at D2/NAIA as a hybrid safety/slot.
Hopkins is a high-motor, undersized two-way player whose 102 tackles and 472 rushing yards (8.4 YPC) as a junior demonstrate legitimate football instincts, toughness, and production. However, at 5'7" 192 lbs with no verified athletic testing, no receiving stats, and no college interest, his D1 ceiling is likely limited to FCS or D2 programs unless he can prove elite speed/explosiveness at camps. He needs to aggressively pursue combine events and build out his Hudl film to generate any college attention.
All-State Second Team selection on a 12-1 state finalist with 10.7 YPC on 50 carries and 64 tackles with 7 TFL — the efficiency and defensive production on a winning team are encouraging. No measurables on file at all (height, weight, speed), which makes projection impossible, but the all-state validation on a deep playoff team demands a closer look.
Liam Yoder is a high-motor, two-way Class 1A player who earned CHSAA All-State Second Team honors as a junior while helping Limon to a 12-1 record and a state championship game appearance. His 10.7 YPC on the ground shows legitimate explosive ability when he touches the ball, and his 64 tackles with 7 TFL on defense demonstrate sideline-to-sideline range and physicality as a tackler. Without verified measurables or uploaded football film, his physical projection is difficult to pin down, but his production and all-state recognition on a deep playoff team warrant further evaluation.
High-motor two-way player who handled 183 carries plus 78 tackles at 4A Greeley Central — the workload capacity is impressive for a 5'11" 160 lb frame. Needs 15-20 lbs of mass and verified testing; the 4.5 YPC rushing average is a concern, but 4 blocked field goals and defensive versatility show elite effort and special teams value.
Galindo is a high-motor, two-way football player who carried a massive workload for Greeley Central as a junior — 183 carries on offense while also logging 78 tackles at linebacker. At 5'11" 160 lbs, he plays with excellent vision and contact balance as a runner and diagnoses plays quickly on defense, as noted by Prep Redzone scouts who praised his acceleration, lateral quickness, and downhill tackling instincts. He projects as a player who could fit multiple defensive and offensive roles at the next level, but will need to add 15-20 pounds of functional mass and get verified testing numbers to fully showcase his athletic profile heading into his senior year.
Dynamic 3A multi-phase contributor with career 7.6 YPC, 27.1 YPR receiving, and a game-winning playoff field goal — the football IQ and clutch factor are evident. At 5'11" 165 with no verified testing, the frame needs significant development, but the efficiency numbers and All-State recognition suggest a D2/NAIA prospect with FCS sleeper upside.
Carter Hayward is a dynamic, high-IQ multi-sport athlete who has produced elite efficiency numbers (7.6 YPC career, 27.1 YPR) and demonstrated clutch playmaking in a deep Class 3A playoff run. His 100-point season across all three phases and All-State second-team selection as a junior validate his impact, but his 5'11" 165 lb frame and lack of verified testing data present questions about his physical ceiling at the next level. He projects as a D2/NAIA recruit with FCS sleeper upside if he adds weight and gets verified camp measurables this spring/summer.
Elite weight room numbers (545 squat, 600 deadlift, 315 bench at 202 lbs) and two years of 5A Regis Jesuit varsity experience show physical maturity and durability. The 4.7 YPC and lack of explosive plays are concerns, but scout praise for vision, pass protection, and contact balance suggest a physical short-yardage/committee back at FCS/D2.
Bacon is a compact, powerful 5'10" 200-lb junior RB/LB who brings legitimate weight room strength (545 squat, 600 deadlift, 315 bench) and two years of varsity production at Colorado 5A Regis Jesuit. He's a well-rounded back with strong vision, reliable pass protection, and receiving chops out of the backfield. His physical tools and two-way contributions suggest a player whose best football is ahead of him -- his senior year should provide the opportunity to showcase increased touchdown production and explosive plays that match his evident power and contact balance.
97 tackles at LB while carrying the ball 78 times for 521 yards at 6.7 YPC — the two-way motor is undeniable for a 5'8" 158 lb junior. Needs 20-25 lbs and verified speed testing; the 3A production and physicality project to small-college linebacker more than running back.
Logan Trujillo is a high-motor, undersized two-way player who emerged as Pueblo East's featured back as a junior, averaging 6.7 YPC on 78 carries while simultaneously anchoring the defense with 97 tackles and 8 TFL from the linebacker spot. His combination of contact balance, lateral quickness, and competitive toughness is evident on film clips, but at 5'8" 158 lbs he projects as a player who needs to add 20-25 pounds before college while maintaining his burst. Verified athletic testing would go a long way in validating his speed, as his production and YPC suggest above-average explosiveness for the 3A level.
Three-year varsity starter with a clear ascending trajectory (111→514→945 yards) and career 6.5 YPC with an 84-yard long run showing breakaway ability. At 5'11" 150 he desperately needs 20-30 lbs, but the 8-man production curve and multi-sport athleticism suggest a player still growing into his frame.
Gabe Price is a productive, high-motor running back who has been the focal point of Byers' 8-man offense for three varsity seasons. His 945 rushing yards and 6.6 YPC as a junior, along with an 84-yard long run, show legitimate burst and vision. He is a lean, athletic frame at 5'11"/150 with significant room to add mass — the physical upside is there given his multi-sport background and the fact that he's still growing. Price's ability to contribute on both sides of the ball and across multiple sports speaks to his competitiveness and football IQ.
Physical 5'11" 195 power back who runs through contact with a 97-yard TD on his resume and 19.0 YPR receiving average showing passing-game versatility. Production hasn't cracked 500 yards in a single season yet, and the reported 5.0 forty is a concern — needs a breakout senior campaign and verified testing.
Emery is a 5'11", 195-lb physical power back who runs with authority through contact and has shown the breakaway speed to house a 97-yard touchdown. His receiving ability (19.0 YPR on 6 catches) and two-way production at linebacker add value and demonstrate football IQ. Entering his senior season with rising production and a frame that can carry more weight, he projects as a physical between-the-tackles runner who can also contribute in the passing game and on defense.
Ball-hawking safety with 8 career INTs and 20.3 YPR receiving average who plays four positions — the versatility and instincts are evident. However, the 4.87 verified forty is below D1 thresholds at any position, and the 4A competition level limits projection. Best path is as an FCS/D2 safety if speed improves.
Dotison is a high-motor, versatile two-way athlete with legitimate ball skills (8 career INTs, 18.6 YPC as a receiver) and an aggressive playing style that jumps off the tape. However, his verified combine numbers (4.87 forty, 8'9" broad jump) are currently below D1 thresholds, and his 5'10" 175 lb frame will need to fill out. He projects best as a developmental FCS/D2 safety prospect with the upside to earn D1 looks if his speed improves during his senior year and he performs well on the camp circuit.
Two-year 5A varsity producer with nearly 1,000 career rushing yards and a school record in the 300m hurdles confirming athletic ability. At 5'10" 165 with no verified football speed testing and 4.9 YPC, the production is adequate but not eye-popping — the academic profile (NHS, AP classes) adds value for FCS programs.
Deon Christopher is a 5'10" 165-lb two-way player who profiles as a downhill running back with developing OLB traits. He posted nearly 1,000 career rushing yards over two varsity seasons with a consistent 5+ YPC average, while also contributing 32 tackles and 4 TFL on defense as a junior. His school record in the 300m hurdles points to legitimate speed and athleticism that translates to the football field, and his National Honor Society membership and AP coursework reflect the kind of high-character, high-IQ player programs want in their building.
Physical two-way starter at RB/DE since sophomore year with 9 career TFL and a 141-yard breakout game at 7.1 YPC against Niwot. At 5'8" 180 with declining rushing production from sophomore to junior year, he needs verified testing and a strong senior season to clarify his ceiling — the defensive versatility is his best selling point.
Lian is a compact, physical two-way player who has been a varsity starter on both sides of the ball since his sophomore year at Wheat Ridge. At 5'8" 180 lbs, he runs with a low pad level and contact balance that allows him to churn out yards between the tackles, and he flashes second-level speed on chunk plays (7.1 YPC in a 141-yard game against Niwot). His defensive versatility as an edge/linebacker hybrid who has recorded 9 TFL, 2 sacks, and an interception adds real value — he's a football player, not just a running back. Verified athletic testing would help quantify his speed and explosiveness, which scouts describe favorably but remain unmeasured.
Massive junior breakout as a receiver (49 catches, 550 yards, 7 TDs after only 8 career catches) with 1,089 all-purpose yards and All-League defensive honors in 8-man ball. At 6'0" 175 with track relay speed and return ability, projects more as a WR/S than RB — needs verified sprint times and higher-level exposure.
Caleb Eastwood is a late-developing, multi-sport athlete who had a legitimate breakout junior season at a small 8-man program in Colorado. His 1,089 all-purpose yards, All-League defensive honors, and membership on the state's fastest 4x100 relay show real athleticism, but the competition level, lack of verified speed data, and zero recruiting exposure make him a fringe FCS/D2 prospect at best right now. He needs verified camp testing, increased film visibility, and a strong senior season to generate any D1 interest.
State-ranked wrestler at 132 lbs who plays five positions in 8-man football with 78 tackles, 10 TFL, and 4 sacks showing defensive disruption. At 5'8" 155 in 1A 8-man, the competition level and size make D1 projection extremely difficult — the wrestling base and versatility profile for small-college football.
Productive 8-man pass-catcher with 20 receptions for 370 yards (18.5 YPR) and 6 TDs plus 88 tackles on defense — the receiving efficiency stands out. At 6'0" 155 he needs 25-35 lbs before any college conversation, and the Mancos competition level is a major limiting factor.
James Potts is a productive multi-sport athlete at a tiny 8-man Colorado program who flashes legitimate playmaking ability as both a runner and receiver. However, at 6'0" 155 lbs with no verified speed testing, no recruiting interest, and competition that doesn't translate to any FBS or FCS level, he is currently a developmental small-school prospect who would need significant physical growth, verified athletic testing at camps, and exposure at a higher competition level to enter the D1 conversation.
Physical tackler with 91 tackles and impressive strength numbers (405 squat, 255 bench at 180 lbs) — the weight room commitment is real. The 3.4 YPC rushing average eliminates his RB projection; best path is as a small-college linebacker where his instincts and physicality can translate against appropriate competition.
Jacob Quintana is a tough, physical two-way player who impacts the game primarily on defense as a high-volume tackler at the 1A level. His weight room numbers (405 squat, 255 bench) are impressive for his size, but the lack of any verified speed/agility testing and modest rushing production (3.4 YPC) make it very difficult to project him as a D1 running back. His best path to college football may be as a linebacker or safety at the D2/D3/NAIA level, where his instincts, physicality, and strength would translate better against appropriate competition.
Legitimate receiving production at 21.6 YPR with 7 TDs on 23 catches as a junior — the big-play ability is real despite no measurables on file whatsoever (no height, weight, or testing). Three-year varsity player on a weak team; needs to get to camps urgently to verify his athleticism.
Frankie Urias is a productive skill player at Fort Morgan (CO) with legitimate receiving numbers (496 yards, 7 TDs, 21.6 YPC as a junior) but zero recruiting traction. Without verified measurables, testing data, or any college interest, he is a complete unknown to the D1 landscape. He projects as a potential FCS or D2 prospect if he can get to camps and verify his athleticism, but significant exposure work is needed.
PRZ-ranked #96 prospect who averaged 5.9 YPC on 103 carries as a sophomore starter at 5A Ralston Valley with a 71-yard long run — the vision and patience are real. Lower-body injury early in junior season and only 9 carries in 2025 leave a massive data gap; at 5'10" 155 he needs significant physical development but the 5A sophomore production warrants monitoring.
Stratman is a patient, high-IQ running back with legitimate vision and burst who proved he can produce as a starter in Colorado 5A as a sophomore, averaging 5.9 YPC on 103 carries with a 71-yard long. His frame (5'10", ~155 lbs) needs significant development, but his running style — waiting for blocks to develop then accelerating through the hole — translates well. The biggest question is whether he can add 25-30 pounds while maintaining the elusiveness and acceleration that make him effective, and how his lower-body injury from the 2025 opener impacts his junior season trajectory.
Elite tackle volume (109 tackles, 8 TFL, 2 sacks) on a 2-9 team at 6'0" 185 with PRZ recognition as a tackling leader — the defensive production is his calling card. Only 26 carries on offense means he's a LB prospect, not a RB; needs verified testing but the instincts and physicality project to FCS/D2 linebacker.
Versatile 8-man athlete who contributes at six positions with career 8.7 YPC and 20.3 YPR receiving as a junior. At 5'8" 155 with self-reported 4.6/11.7 times and extremely low competition, he's a small-college prospect whose multi-sport background and academics are positives.
Harvey is a productive, versatile athlete who dominates at the Colorado 8-man level, but his size (5'8"/155), lack of verified speed testing, and extremely low level of competition make him a very difficult D1 projection. He profiles more as a quality small-college or D2/D3 athlete unless he adds significant size and can verify sub-4.5 speed. His academics and multi-sport background are positives, but he is not currently on any D1 recruiting radar.
Good frame at 6'0" 195 with 30 lbs of growth since freshman year and 56 tackles at LB — the physical development trajectory and TE/LB versatility are worth tracking. Minimal offensive stats (12 carries, 9 catches) and no verified testing mean he's very early in the evaluation process.
Elite defensive production from an ATH position — 54 tackles, 15 TFL, 6 sacks, and an INT with exceptional strength numbers (365 squat, 260 bench at 165 lbs). Only 5 carries as a RB means he's miscast at the position; projects as a defensive prospect whose pass-rush ability and strength warrant further evaluation.
Physical two-way LB/RB with 123 career tackles, 18 TFL, and All-State HM recognition as a sophomore — the defensive instincts are legitimate. The 5.03 forty at the PRZ Combine confirms limited straight-line speed, and 112 rushing yards as a junior caps his offensive value; projects as a D2/NAIA linebacker.
Oscar Ramirez is a physically mature, two-way LB/RB at 5'10" 185 lbs who has been a varsity contributor since his freshman year and earned All-State Honorable Mention recognition early in his career. His defensive production is his calling card -- 123 total tackles, 18 TFL, 1 sack, and 3 INTs across two varsity seasons -- showing instincts, physicality, and playmaking ability against the run and pass. His 4.82 shuttle and 7'5" broad jump at the PRZ Combine confirm short-area quickness and explosiveness, though his straight-line speed (5.03 forty) will need to improve to project as an offensive weapon at the next level. His long-term projection may be as a downhill, physical linebacker who can also contribute on special teams.
Raw 6'0" multi-sport athlete (starting guard on 20-3 basketball team) with passing, rushing, and receiving stats suggesting positional versatility. At 160 lbs with 3.0 YPC and no verified testing, he's extremely early in development, but the basketball pedigree and frame hint at athleticism worth monitoring.
Jordan Rodriguez is a raw, multi-sport athlete with an intriguing 6'0" frame and clear competitive instincts, but he is extremely early in his football development with no verified measurables, no recruiting buzz, and limited production at a mid-tier Colorado 4A program. His basketball prowess (starting guard on a 20-3 team) and track participation hint at legitimate athleticism, but he needs a significant physical transformation and a breakout senior season to generate D1 interest. Currently projects as a potential FCS or D2 prospect if he adds weight and improves his senior film.
99-tackle junior season at 1A demonstrates elite effort and instincts, with two-way contributions at five positions. At 5'10" 165 with no verified testing, the frame and competition level limit projection to D3/NAIA, but the defensive production and character are noteworthy.
Liam Smith is an extremely productive small-school two-way player whose 99 tackles as a junior demonstrate elite effort, instincts, and tackling ability at the 1A level. However, at 5'10" 165 lbs with no verified speed or athletic testing data and no recruiting service recognition, he currently projects as a lower-division prospect (D2/D3/NAIA) who would need significant physical development and exposure at camps to generate D1 interest. His senior year will be critical for adding weight and attending verified testing events.
96 tackles and 6 TFL at 1A show defensive productivity, and his shot put marks (44'3") confirm upper-body power unusual for 150 lbs. Severely undersized and the 12.62 100m confirms limited speed — needs a dramatic physical transformation to project beyond the small-college level.
Blake Johnson is a high-motor, two-way contributor on a strong Colorado 1A program who made his biggest impact on defense with 96 tackles and 6 TFL as a junior. His offensive rushing numbers are modest (206 yards, 5 TD on 44 carries) and he is significantly undersized at 5'11" 150 lbs, which limits his projection. He has legitimate athleticism as evidenced by his track throwing marks (44'3" shot put as a sophomore), but without verified speed data, added weight, and exposure at camps, he profiles as a small-school prospect who would need a transformative senior year and significant physical development to attract D1 attention.
195 career tackles in 23 games since freshman year show elite instincts and motor, but at 5'8" 148 lbs with 2.9 career YPC rushing and no verified testing, the frame cannot support D1 football. Projects as a D3/NAIA linebacker who needs 30+ lbs of functional mass.
Ramirez is a high-motor, undersized linebacker who has been a productive tackler since his freshman year on varsity, accumulating 195 career tackles across 23 games. However, at 5'8" 148 lbs with no verified speed or athletic testing data, no college offers, and production coming against a very weak 4A schedule on a winless team, he does not currently project as a D1 prospect. His offensive numbers as a running back are below average (career 2.9 YPC), and his frame offers limited room for growth to a college-ready size at linebacker.
69 tackles, 9 TFL, and 2 sacks on defense with wrestling background showing leverage and physicality, but only 3 rushing attempts and a 5'7" 165 frame (138 wrestling weight) severely limit projection. Small-school prospect who needs dramatic physical growth to play beyond the high school level.
Versatile athlete who plays RB/CB/WR with 54 tackles on defense, but 3 carries for 4 yards and 3 catches for 13 yards on a winless Overland team provide almost zero offensive evaluation data. No measurables on file — needs a complete physical profile and a breakout senior season to enter any recruiting conversation.