In Texas, high school football isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life. Every Friday night, stadium lights blaze across the Lone Star State as fans gather to witness the grit, speed, and power that define Texas football. Among the rising stars, the Class of 2026 boasts a new wave of elite running backs poised to leave their mark. These athletes have captured attention with their dynamic play styles, versatility, and undeniable potential, making them the top recruits to watch. From lightning-fast speedsters to powerful bruisers, meet the five running backs dominating the Texas high school football scene and leading the charge in the Lone Star ground game.
Meet the standout rushers blazing trails across Texas fields
Davian Groce, Lone Star Frisco
Davian Groce is a rising star in Texas high school football, known for his impressive speed, vision, and ability to make defenders miss. His quick burst and patience allow him to find openings and turn small gains into big plays. Groce also excels as a pass-catching threat, adding versatility to his game. While he could benefit from improving his pad level and building more strength, his potential is undeniable. With continued development, Groce is on track to become one of the top running back prospects in Texas, catching the attention of college scouts across the country.
Tradarian Ball, Texas High School
Tradarian Ball is a powerful, dynamic running back who’s become a top prospect in Texas high school football. Known for his strength and physicality, Ball excels at breaking tackles and grinding out tough yards, while also surprising defenders with his speed in the open field. His football IQ and instinctive ability to read blocks make him a versatile runner. Although he could improve his pass-catching consistency and footwork in tight spaces, Ball’s potential is undeniable. With his blend of power, speed, and field awareness, Ball is a player to watch closely as he continues to develop.
Raycine Guillory, Aledo High School
Raycine Guillory is an explosive and elusive running back known for his elite speed, agility, and vision. His ability to accelerate quickly and make sharp cuts makes him a dangerous weapon in the open field. Guillory is also a versatile player, capable of contributing as a receiver out of the backfield. While he’s shown impressive agility and playmaking ability, improving his power and blocking skills will help him become more effective in short-yardage situations. With his combination of speed and vision, Guillory is a dynamic prospect with the potential to be one of the top backs in the Class of 2026.
Javian Osborne, Forney High School
Javian Osborne is an explosive and versatile running back known for his elite speed, vision, and playmaking ability. His quick acceleration and top-end speed make him a constant threat to break long runs, while his vision and decision-making allow him to find and exploit running lanes. Osborne is also a valuable receiving option out of the backfield, adding another dimension to his game. To further elevate his skill set, improving his strength and pass protection will be key as he develops. With his dynamic playstyle and potential for growth, Osborne is a top recruit to watch in the Class of 2026.
KJ Edwards, Carthage High School
KJ Edwards is a powerful and explosive running back known for his physical running style, speed, and balance. He excels at breaking tackles and gaining extra yards with his strength, while also showcasing quickness and burst to turn short runs into big gains. Edwards has great vision and patience, allowing him to find running lanes and make decisive cuts. To further enhance his game, improving his pass-catching and blocking skills will help him become a more well-rounded back. With his combination of power and speed, Edwards is a top recruit to watch in the Class of 2026.
The Class of 2026 in Texas high school football is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, and these five running backs—Davian Groce, Tradarian Ball, Raycine Guillory, Javian Osborne, and KJ Edwards—are leading the charge. Each player brings a unique set of skills to the field, from breakaway speed and agility to power and vision, making them some of the top recruits to watch in the coming years.
As they continue to develop and refine their craft, these athletes are not only setting the stage for standout high school careers but are also positioning themselves to be future stars at the collegiate level. With their combination of talent, work ethic, and potential, the sky is the limit for these young backs as they prepare to take their game to new heights.
The future of Texas high school football looks bright, and the Lone Star State can expect these dynamic running backs to make a lasting impact on the field for years to come. Keep an eye on them as they continue to turn heads and write their own legacies in the world of football.
(featured photo and video credit: Dallas Morning News, X.com, and youtube.com)
