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Running backs play a crucial role in football as they are versatile offensive players who can dominate the ground and passing game. A strong RB can also transform an offense by providing balance and keeping defenses guessing.
An elite RB can change the course of a match and significantly impact a program's success. The 2025 class features several promising RBs who are playing well in their respective high schools.
Let's take a look at the top three running backs from the 2025 cycle.
Top 3 running backs in the 2025 class
3. Jordon Davison
Jordon Davison is a standout player for the Mater Dei Monarchs (California), who remain undefeated after securing a decisive 28-6 victory against Servite on Friday. Davison rushed for 155 yards and scored three touchdowns (career-high) on just 13 carries.
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As the lead back for the No. 1 team in the country per MaxPreps, Davison has shown remarkable consistency throughout the season by recording six rushing touchdowns and averaging 99.5 yards per game.
He committed to Oregon in June and chose the Ducks over powerhouse programs such as Alabama, Michigan and Ohio State. He is ranked by Rivals as the No. 22 overall prospect, the No. 1 RB in the 2025 class and the No. 1 recruit in California.
2. Akylin Dear
Akylin Dear has been a force for the Quitman High School Panthers (Mississippi) this season as he has racked up 1,282 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns in just seven games. He first gained national attention during his sophomore season when he rushed for 800 yards and 21 touchdowns.
Dear is ranked as the No. 45 overall prospect, the No. 1 RB in the 2025 class and the No. 3 recruit in Mississippi, per 247 Sports. He committed to Alabama in August over Ole Miss and Mississippi State.
1. Harlem Barrey
Topping the list is Harlem Barrey from St. Martin’s Episcopal School (Louisiana). Despite his program's struggles, currently holding a 5-2 record, Barrey has shone brightly.
During Friday's 76-37 loss against Riverside Academy, Berry rushed for over 300 yards and scored five touchdowns, including explosive runs of 76, 65, 63 and 61 yards. His ability to break tackles and accelerate past defenders has made him a standout player in the state.
Over his three high school seasons, Barrey has accumulated over 2,000 rushing yards. He committed to LSU on Jan. 3 and is regarded as the top RB in the 2025 class, according to On3. With. He is also listed as the No. 17 overall prospect in and the No. 1 recruit in Louisiana.
