The Asheville Citizen Times has released its highly anticipated list of the top 10 Western North Carolina high school running backs for the upcoming 2026 football season, a ranking that reflects a deep pool of talent across the region.
Fans are being asked to weigh in on who should be crowned the Ingles WNC preseason running back of the year, with voting open until noon on June 11, giving the community a direct voice in shaping the narrative.
Key Contenders
Cameron Clem of Murphy emerges as a focal point after finishing the year with 1,831 yards and 31 touchdowns, while Parker Willis from North Henderson dazzles with 2,148 rushing yards and 24 scores, including five 200‑yard games that underscore his consistency.
Shiloh Mukendi of Asheville School also commands attention after racking up 1,106 yards and 13 touchdowns, a performance that has already attracted Division I offers and signals a promising future at the next level.
Other standout athletes include Garrett Young from Franklin, who posted 1,789 yards and 23 touchdowns to earn All‑WNC second‑team honors, and Rylee Smith from Smoky Mountain, whose junior season yielded 1,682 yards and 15 scores.
The rankings also spotlight emerging threats such as Kyngston Denson of North Buncombe, who has led his conference in rushing yards for two consecutive seasons, and Jordan Buford from Hendersonville, who contributed 1,271 yards and 16 touchdowns while also making an impact in the passing game.
Beyond individual statistics, the list reflects the competitive balance within the Mountain 8 and surrounding conferences, setting the stage for a season that promises excitement, rivalries, and memorable performances on the field.