Top 20 running backs in California high school football entering 2025

 

While California high school football doesn’t necessarily specialize in producing running backs, it’s always remarkably deep at the position – 2025 included.

From 4-star NFL prospects to unranked all-state selections, California might have as many as 200 running backs who will play in college and spend their high school days putting up big numbers on standout teams.

Here’s a look at who we think are the state’s top 20 RBs, followed by another 22 who received serious consideration. 

The primary criteria are individual production and team success relative to strength of schedule in prior seasons, individual awards from prior seasons, and recruiting accolades.

 

1. Brian Bonner, Valencia (Valencia) – Sr.

BREAKING: Four-Star RB Brian Bonner Jr. has Committed to Washington, he tells me for @rivals

The 6’0 190 RB from Santa Clarita, CA chose the Huskies over UCLA, Penn State, & Nebraska

He’s ranked as the No. 4 RB in 2026 ☔️https://t.co/gTvp2CvfNO pic.twitter.com/SsT3EuQPAT

— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) July 8, 2025

A 4-star Washington commit with some 29 offers, Bonner is one of California’ most versatile offensive threats. He combines track speed with shiftiness and the receiving skills of a wideout or slotback. As a junior, Bonner ran for 1,493 yards and 25 touchdowns, had 40 catches for 498 yards and four TDs, and registered 443 yards and two scores returning kickoffs. With Valencia likely to take a step forward this year, especially on offense, Bonner has a chance to have an even bigger season as a senior.

2. Brandon Smith, Central East – Sr.

I’m home! Beardown 🐻⬇️ pic.twitter.com/xNHZdOJ0tQ

— Brandon Smith 3⭐️ATH (@brandonsmith026) June 29, 2025

One of the best running backs and safeties in the state at the same time, Smith put up huge numbers as a junior to…

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Publish date : 2025-08-15 03:53:00

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