Featured photo by Robert Ovies Sport Photography
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’26 West Virginia Runningbacks to Watch
ABC Order
To maximize the number of players featured, some individuals have been moved to the linebacker or other positional watch lists, which will be released separately.
Logan Beam
5’9″ 190 lbs | Elkins HS | 2026
“Densely built with plenty of muscle. Has some wiggle, but really stands out with his acceleration and tough, physical running style. Poised for a huge season in the Tigers’ run-heavy system.”
Tarran Boda
5’10” 185 lbs | Fairmont Senior HS | 2026
“Moves well within their zone schemes and consistently shows good vision as a ball carrier. Has proven he can be a physical runner when called upon.”
Bryson Elia
5’10” 170 lbs | Tug Valley HS | 2026
“A true do-it-all player for his team—making impact plays as a returner and defensive back. His agility stands out, and he’s a natural ball player with a knack for finding and exploiting openings.”
Blake Fisher
5’9″ 175 lbs | Herbert Hoover HS | 2026
“A true playmaker who can score from anywhere on the field. Equally effective between the tackles and in the slot. What sets him apart is the precision in his technique, allowing him to shift into another gear.”
AJ Gregory
5’11” 195 lbs | Hurricane HS | 2026
“Well-built with excellent balance. Keeps his feet moving and shows great burst when openings appear, allowing him to hit the hole with purpose.”
Nathaniel Lasure
5’11” 180 lbs | Musselman HS | 2026
“Gets north in a hurry. Shows the ability to make defenders miss while staying vertical and gaining ground.”
Isaac Martin
6’0″ 220 lbs | Wheeling Central HS | 2026
“A punishing back who brings more size and strength than many of the defensive linemen he’ll face. While his game is power-based, there’s a clear rhythm and tempo to his carries.”
Sylas Nelson
6’0″ 210 lbs | Independnce HS | 2026
“A strong, physical runner with patience and vision. The kind of back who wears down a defense—becoming more effective as the game goes on and defenders get tired of bringing him down.”
Chris Radcliffe
5’9″ 175 lbs | Nitro HS | 2026
“A quick hitter with great acceleration and a low pad level. Has the burst to hit a seam and take it to the house on any play.”
Blake Sanders
5’10” 170 lbs | Spring Mills HS | 2026
“Likely the most agile back in the class, with exceptional footwork, balance, and quick twitch. Whenever he’s in the open field, he consistently makes defenders miss.”
Carter Shanholtz
5’10” 180 lbs | Frankfort HS | 2026
“An old-school running back who welcomes contact but also runs with patience within the system, exploiting what the line gives him and using his athleticism and vision to make plays.”
Brennan Wack
6’0″ 190 lbs | Wheeling Park | 2026
“A fun player to watch, showcasing excellent vision and patience. Able to make defenders miss in the hole and flashes physical running ability. Produced at a high level against top competition and stands out as the most well-rounded back in the class.”