The 2026 high school football season is already generating buzz in the Wilmington area, where five running backs have emerged as the most promising rushers to watch. Each of them posted impressive statistics in the just‑finished 2025 campaign, setting the stage for what could be breakout years ahead.
Emerging Talent
Jeremiah Brown of Laney High School topped the local rushing charts with 630 yards and five touchdowns, showcasing a blend of speed and vision that made him the anchor of the Vikings’ offense. His consistent performance kept the team competitive in a tough conference.
Amerius Revels from South Brunswick added a stellar 1,356 yards and nine scores, a workload that placed him among the top rushers statewide and highlighted his durability and breakaway ability. Coaches praised his elusiveness in tight spaces and his capacity to swing momentum in key moments.
Depth in Pender
Pender contributed two standout backs: Zeke Williams, who logged 1,153 yards and 10 touchdowns, and Jahiem Lamb, who reached 907 yards with 11 scores. Their complementary styles — Williams’ power running and Lamb’s agile cuts — give the Patriots a versatile ground attack that could be a nightmare for opposing defenses. Both players are expected to shoulder even larger roles as the team aims for a deeper playoff run.
Tyreek Moore of Trask rounded out the group with 1,189 yards and 12 touchdowns, a performance that not only cemented his status as a top rusher but also underscored the depth of talent across the region. His knack for finding seams and sustaining drives has already drawn interest from several college programs.
What It Means for the Region
The concentration of elite rushers in the Wilmington corridor signals a fertile recruiting ground and promises competitive matchups throughout the season. Local fans can anticipate high‑scoring games, while analysts will be tracking how these backs influence district rankings and playoff seeding.
As preseason preparations begin, the five standouts are already the subject of intense discussion among coaches, scouts and teammates. Their ability to build on last year’s production will be a key storyline for every team hoping to contend in the upcoming campaign.