The 2026 high school football season is approaching fast and it’s time to unveil 10 running backs to watch from the Daily News coverage area when games kick off week zero on Friday, Aug. 21.
Jaxsen Stokes, Sierra Canyon, senior
Stokes had an impressive junior campaign where he averaged 80.2 yards per game, including 6.6 yards per carry with 12 rushing touchdowns and 12 receptions for 155 yards and two receiving touchdowns before flipping his commitment from Oklahoma to Cal in April. His combination of strength, shiftiness and ability to catch the football are constant, but Stokes’ ultimate x-factor is the ability to block and handle blitz pressure. Athleticism and subtle qualities in the trenches will have an already strong Sierra Canyon offense humming once more in 2026.
Matix Frithsmith, Hart, senior
The words freight train and Frithsmith are synonymous for one of the most physical backs in the state. He runs through tackles much harder than his 6-foot and 185-pound frame would indicate possible. He is the complete package with his patience to find holes and catch the ball from the backfield. Frithsmith rushed for 1,303 yards and averaged 8 yards per carry. He also had 82 receptions for 1,090 yards and 25 combined touchdowns. If that wasn’t good enough, he also completed two passes for 56 yards. Frithsmith holds offers from Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon and the University of Puget Sound.
Kyle Fulton Jr., Paraclete, senior
Fulton’s physicality and speed at 5-foot-11 contributed to an offense that averaged 411 yards per game. Paraclete finished 9-3 in 2025 with Fulton rushing for 1,249 yards and 6.1 yards per carry. Fulton also caught 23 receptions for 241 yards and one touchdown. He currently holds an offer from UNLV.
Braylen Morgan, Birmingham, senior
Morgan maximized his opportunities and averaged 7.6 yards per carry for 736 yards and 14 touchdowns. Morgan guided Birmingham to a 5-0 record in the West Valley League. Don’t give Morgan space or else he’ll find the end zone. He has downhill speed and is quick and elusive.
Marquis Jones, Chaminade, senior
More to come from Jones who was the team’s leading rusher and averaged 6.7 yards per carry in 2025. A quality back at 5-foot-9, he can break through tackles and carries breakaway speed. Expect the Division I offers to pick up by mid-fall.
Nevada Ford, Oak Park, senior
Ford displayed versatility and scored 10 touchdowns (five rushing, five receiving), ran for 675 yards and averaged 6.2 yards per carry in 2025. He’s quick, has good hands and is a quality blocker against the blitz at 5-foot-8 and 160 pounds.
Kemir Smith, Quartz Hill, junior
Smith had a strong sophomore campaign and averaged 6.6 yards per carry and scored 10 touchdowns. Smith is one of the top class of 2028 recruits in California. Look for Smith to get more involved in the passing game for the Royals.
Tabary McKnight, Alemany, junior
McKnight was a bright spot for Alemany, which struggled to a 1-9 record and used three different quarterbacks in 2025. McKnight averaged 6.5 yards per carry and scored three touchdowns. McKnight will get plenty of opportunities to stand out under first-year head coach and former Birmingham star Dennis Keyes.
Royel McFarlane, Crespi, junior
McFarlane has been a mainstay in Crespi’s offense since his freshman year. Now the opportunity to expand his touches comes after he rushed for 406 yards, four touchdowns and averaged 5.5 yards per carry. Physical in the trenches, McFarlane brings an edge that should continue to make Crespi physically imposing.
Ben Burkin, Viewpoint, senior
Burkin showed why he’s one of the best two-way players in Southern California. Burkin averaged 7 yards per carry and scored six touchdowns along with reeling in six interceptions as a defensive back. With quick feet, high IQ and patience, Burkin carries a modesty that endears himself to his teammates and coaches. He’s a leader who will look to guide Viewpoint after an 8-4 season.
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