Rising Stars Lead the Pack
The 2026 high school football season in Western North Carolina is already generating buzz as coaches and analysts turn their eyes toward the returning talent that dominated the 2025 campaign. The Citizen Times and Times-News have compiled a ranking of the top 15 running backs, using last year’s statistics and on‑field observations to project who will lead the offense next fall.
Topping the list is Cameron Clem Murphy, who earned the distinction of being the region’s premier running back for the second straight year, a testament to his consistent explosiveness on the field.
Not far behind, Parker Willis of North Henderson has emerged as the workhorse with the most rushing yards recorded among the returning backs, his sophomore surge setting a new benchmark for the area.
Garrett Young from Franklin continues to impress after piling up 1,789 yards and 23 touchdowns, a combination that helped the Panthers dominate their schedule and cement his status as a standout performer.
Rylee Smith of Smoky Mountain added 1,682 yards and 15 scores, positioning himself as the Mustangs’ primary offensive weapon and one of the most reliable rushers in the mountain region.
Conference Leaders and Emerging Talent
The depth of talent extends through the rankings, with Sam Trantham of Tuscola (1,450 yards, 12 TDs) and Jordan Buford of Hendersonville (1,271 yards, 16 TDs) carving out significant roles, while Ervine Rodriguez of Mountain Heritage contributed 1,240 yards and 14 touchdowns in a conference‑title‑winning campaign.
Shiloh Mukendi at Asheville School has attracted Division I interest after posting 1,106 yards and 13 scores, and Kyngston Denson of North Buncombe has led his conference in rushing yards for two consecutive seasons.
Other notable performers include Kingston Welch of Cherokee (902 yards, 10 TDs, four 100‑yard games), Blake Davis of Murphy (774 yards, five TDs), and Mookah Simpson of Roberson (748 yards, seven TDs). Late‑season breakout TK Davis of Asheville High took over the backfield in the second half, rushing for 577 yards and four touchdowns, while freshman Jah'Baree Tolbert of Erwin added 574 yards and six scores.