North Jersey’s 2026 Running Backs Poised for Impact
The upcoming 2026 high school football season in North Jersey is shaping up to be defined by a deep and versatile group of running backs, many of whom hail from Bergen and Passaic County. Coaches and analysts alike are watching a talent pool that blends raw power, elusive speed and dual‑threat capabilities.
Kyshawn Bryant of St. Joseph enters the season as the region’s most anticipated rusher, despite a lingering ankle injury that limited him to 600 yards and nine touchdowns last year. His ability to break tackles and find the end zone remains a focal point for teams hoping to anchor their offenses.
Jonathan Davis from Ramsey adds a unique dimension as a dual‑threat back. He compiled 757 rushing yards and five scores while also leading the area in receptions with 43 catches for 488 yards, giving his team a versatile weapon in both phases.
John Gioia of Rutherford, a key figure in a cast eyeing the NJIC title, posted 769 yards and five touchdowns a season ago, and his consistent production will be a cornerstone for his squad’s title aspirations.
Tucker Kanning at Northern Highlands, a West Point commit, surged to 1,171 yards and nine touchdowns, earning first‑team All‑North Jersey honors and raising expectations for a breakout campaign.
Randy Lewis of Passaic Tech, who finished second in the county’s rushing yards last season, is poised to take on a larger role after delivering 485 yards and six touchdowns, a performance that could elevate his status among the top backs.
Chukwuma Odoh from Paramus Catholic, who rushed for 929 yards and 13 touchdowns last year and committed to Penn State, is being touted as a potential premier back for the region, blending size, speed and collegiate pedigree.
Patrick Randolph at Park Ridge, a small‑school standout, amassed 1,002 yards and 16 touchdowns while earning first‑team all‑league honors, underscoring his impact despite his school’s size.
Ed Rasmussen from Westwood, previously the No. 2 back, will now shoulder a greater workload after posting 441 yards and two touchdowns, a transition that could define his team’s offensive rhythm.
Jorheny Rodriguez of Garfield is a central reason the Boilermakers hope to achieve their first winning season since 2020, having led the team with 991 yards and 14 touchdowns last year.
Kobe St. Hilaire, transferring from St. Joseph to New Milford, is expected to top the county’s rushing charts after a 1,467‑yard, 15‑touchdown campaign, bringing a high‑octane presence to the backfield.
Ca’Si Thomas at Don Bosco will assume an expanded role after sharing carries previously, having contributed 442 yards and eight touchdowns, and his increased touches could unlock new offensive schemes.
Ethan Zacharski from Wayne Hills stands out as Passaic County’s most versatile running back, racking up 864 yards and 12 touchdowns while also catching 27 passes for 310 yards, illustrating his dual‑threat value.
Depth and Versatility Across the Region
The breadth of talent extends beyond individual statistics, as many of these players also excel in leadership, physicality and adaptability. Coaches note that the blend of size, speed and receiving ability creates matchup nightmares, while the geographic spread — from Bergen County’s St. Joseph to Passaic County’s Wayne Hills — ensures a rich competitive environment that should produce exciting games throughout the season.