The 2026 high school football season is upon us, and Wilmington's backfields are brimming with talent. This year's crop of running backs is a testament to the city's athletic prowess, with a diverse range of skills and potential. Here's a closer look at some of the standout performers who are set to make their mark on the gridiron.
Jeremiah Brown: A Veteran's Resilience
Jeremiah Brown, a senior at Laney, is a veteran presence in Wilmington's backfield. Despite sharing carries with other talented runners in 2025, Brown still managed to rush for an impressive 630 yards and five touchdowns. His resilience and ability to consistently gain yards in a crowded backfield make him a key player to watch. Brown's experience and determination will be crucial for Laney's success this season.
Zeke Williams: Explosive Speed
Zeke Williams, a senior at Pender, is a force to be reckoned with. His breakaway speed and ability to surpass 10 rushing touchdowns and 1,000 yards in 2025 are a testament to his talent. Williams' explosive nature makes him a threat to score from anywhere on the field. With his speed and agility, he is poised to be a game-changer for Pender this season.
Amerius Revels: A Season to Remember
Amerius Revels, a senior at South Brunswick, had a season to remember in 2025. He rushed for over 1,300 yards and scored nine touchdowns. Revels' ability to fight for extra yards and his consistency make him a reliable option for South Brunswick. His performance last season sets a high bar for himself and his teammates this year.
Julian Morrison: Speed and Versatility
Julian Morrison, a wide receiver at Ashley, is the team's leading returning rusher in 2026. His speed and versatility make him a valuable asset. Morrison's ability to utilize long sweeps and downfield plays will be a significant advantage for Ashley. His dynamic skills and potential for big plays make him a player to watch closely.
Jason Arciola and the Hoggard Backfield
The Hoggard backfield is shrouded in mystery, with no clear stars returning. However, players like Jason Arciola are poised to step up and make an impact. Arciola's performance against Richmond in 2025, where he rushed for a touchdown, indicates his potential. The lack of clear stars means that players like Arciola will have the opportunity to shine and make their mark on the season.
Marzell Stanley: Potential and Consistency
Marzell Stanley, a senior at Brunswick County, is another back with big potential. His ability to consistently gain a few yards, as seen in the game against North Brunswick, showcases his reliability. Stanley's consistency and potential for growth make him a valuable asset for the Trojans.
Jaheim Lambe: Explosive Potential
Jaheim Lambe, a senior at Pender, is another explosive talent. His ability to go for well over 1,000 yards and his explosive nature make him a threat to score from anywhere on the field. Lambe's speed and agility will be a significant advantage for Pender's run game.
North Brunswick's Rotation
North Brunswick will rely on a rotation of running backs, including the returning Xavier Lendon. Lendon's performance in 2025, where he rushed for four touchdowns, showcases his potential. The team's strategic use of a rotation will be crucial in maintaining consistency and avoiding fatigue.
Michael Miller Jr.: A Senior's Growth
Michael Miller Jr., a senior at Ashley, is another player who could see a significant jump in production. His performance last fall, where he rushed for 76 yards and one score, indicates his potential for growth. Miller Jr.'s senior year will be a crucial phase in his development as a key player for Ashley.
In summary, Wilmington's 2026 high school football running backs showcase a diverse range of skills and potential. From the veteran presence of Jeremiah Brown to the explosive speed of Zeke Williams, these players are set to make their mark on the gridiron. The season promises exciting matchups and the emergence of new stars, as these talented individuals strive to lead their teams to success.
