Mississippi high school football fans are gearing up to decide who will be crowned the state’s top running back for the Class of 2026. The Clarion Ledger has assembled a watch list of the most prolific rushers, and a public poll will remain open until noon on July 4, giving supporters a chance to shape the narrative before the next season begins.
Among the standouts, Christian Alexander from Rosa Fort stands out with 1,364 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns, having already secured a spot at Mississippi State. Ty Keys of Poplarville, the recent MHSAA 4A Mr. Football winner, boasts 3,285 yards and 45 scores while pledging to Miami.
Key Contenders
Other notable names include Knolyn Bailey of Lanier, who logged 1,754 yards and earned a Miami (Ohio) offer, and Kylan Bobo from Tupelo, a three‑star recruit with 1,726 yards and 29 total scores.
The list also features Aaric Beasley of Jackson Academy, who helped his team capture the MAIS 4A Division I title with 960 yards, and Xavier Dennis of Picayune, who amassed 2,840 yards and 35 touchdowns, averaging 218 yards per game.
Deavion Watson from Senatobia broke his school’s single‑game rushing record with 413 yards, while Kingston Branham, Acely Brown and the rest of the cohort add depth to a field that promises to be as competitive as it is talented.
College Pathways
Several of the nominees have already locked in collegiate destinations, from Mississippi State and LSU to out‑of‑state programs such as Duke, Michigan and Penn. The commitment map reads like a who’s‑who of SEC and national recruiters, underscoring the caliber of talent emerging from Mississippi’s high schools.
The poll’s outcome will not only honor the athletes but also influence recruiting conversations, as coaches monitor the vote to gauge regional popularity and potential future match‑ups. As the deadline approaches, the excitement among fans, families and programs continues to build.
Looking Ahead
Whether the winner emerges as a future SEC star or a national standout, the vote underscores the passion that drives Mississippi football culture. The results will be tallied and announced shortly after the July 4 deadline, closing a chapter that has already captured statewide attention.