The upcoming high school football season in Wilmington promises to be an exciting one, especially for fans of the running game. As we approach the 2026 season, several talented running backs are poised to make their mark on the field, and I'm here to give you the inside scoop on who to watch out for.
Wilmington's Rising Stars
First up, we have Jeremiah Brown, a senior at Laney High School. Brown is a standout talent, and new coach Coraey Houser is keen to showcase his abilities. Despite sharing the spotlight in a crowded backfield last season, Brown managed to rack up an impressive 630 rushing yards and five touchdowns. With a heavier workload this year, I predict he'll be a force to be reckoned with.
Moving on, Pender High School's Zeke Williams is a speedster who left defenders in the dust last season, rushing for over 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns. His breakaway speed is a game-changer, and I expect him to continue dominating the field in his senior year.
Amerius Revels of South Brunswick High School had a remarkable 2025 season, rushing for an astonishing 1,300 yards and nine touchdowns. His performance in the NCHSAA 5A state playoffs was a testament to his talent. Revels' ability to fight for every yard makes him a player to watch, and I believe he'll be a key factor in his team's success this season.
Ashley High School's Julian Morrison, listed as a wide receiver, is an intriguing dual-threat player. He led his team in rushing last year, and his speed will be a valuable asset on long sweeps and downfield plays. This versatility is what modern football is all about, and I'm excited to see how Morrison's role evolves.
Unpredictable Backfields
Hoggard High School's backfield is a bit of a mystery this season, as no clear stars have emerged. This could be an opportunity for players like Jason Arciola to step up and make their mark. In a sport where consistency is often key, Hoggard's running game might be a wild card, which adds an element of excitement.
Marzell Stanley, a senior from Brunswick County, is another player with untapped potential. His ability to gain yards consistently could be a game-changer for his team.
Pender's Jaheim Lambe is set to follow in Williams' footsteps, with similar explosive skills. I predict he'll be a significant contributor to Pender's rushing attack, making their run game a formidable force.
North Brunswick will rely on a rotation of running backs, including Xavier Lendon, who had a solid 2025 season. This strategy can keep defenses guessing, and I'm curious to see how they manage their talent pool.
Ashley's Michael Miller Jr. is another senior who could see a significant increase in production. With a year of experience under his belt, I anticipate he'll be a key player in their ground game.
As we gear up for the 2026 high school football season, these running backs are set to light up the field with their talent. Personally, I can't wait to see how these young athletes develop and contribute to their teams' success. The beauty of high school football is witnessing the emergence of new stars, and this season promises to deliver just that. Stay tuned, as the action is about to kick off!
