2026 Positional Breakdown: Sun Devils have a crowded running back room

While there were many reasons for the Sun Devils failing to repeat as Big 12 champions last year, one factor that fans kept pointing to was the inability to adequately replace superstar running back Cam Skattebo.

Now, a year later, the running back position is still a major question mark, though that has more to do with the names vying for the starting job this year. As we prepare for the season opener, all eyes are on a crowded running back room.

Kyson Brown is hoping for a second chance

While Skattebo was sometimes single-handedly powering the Sun Devils to wins in 2024, his top backup was Kyson Brown. The Mississippi native known as Sip flashed plenty of potential throughout the year, and he solidified the starter job heading into last year's season opener.

Then came injuries. He left early in the Sun Devils' second game of the year, missed a week, and then got hurt again upon his return. All told, Brown suited up for just four games last year and totaled 18 carries.

Back again, Brown is looking for another shot. He's added weight to his frame this year to better withstand the contact that comes with the position. And, by all accounts, Brown has continued to impress in practices all year long, dating back to spring practices.

Brown was also voted to the team's Pat Tillman Leadership Council, a hint at how much he means to this team. Whether or not Brown emerges as a workhorse running back or more of a featured player in a rotation, expect him to get plenty of work this year.

Marquis Gillis is the top newcomer

One of two FCS running backs to transfer into the program this past winter, Marquis Gillis has seen his stock skyrocket since practices started. The former Delaware State product racked up 1,182 rushing yards and nine touchdowns last year.

Listed between 220 and 230 pounds while standing exactly six feet, Gillis is cut out of stone. He's the prototypical power back, and his downhill running style is a perfect fit for what Kenny Dillingham and Marcus Arroyo want this offense to be.

While Brown is a bit more of a do-it-all type of back, with specific utility as a pass-catcher, Gillis empowers the Sun Devils to get back to more of what they did in 2024 with Skattebo.

Gillis has also been turning heads in practices. The most likely bet is Gillis and Brown as the two lead backs, working to keep both guys fresh throughout the game. With how good both have looked, that feels like the most obvious answer.

Jason Brown the wildcard

The one player who could throw a wrench in those plans is Jason Brown.

The junior out of Seattle has flashed elite potential in spring practice every year he's been in Tempe, but the crowded running back room has always limited his workload. Last year, he tallied 151 yards on just 16 carries and scored his first career touchdown.

Brown offers an all-around skill set, with burst and home run threat while also playing much more physically than his frame would suggest. Brown has also had plenty of strong moments in practices, though most accounts support the notion that Gillis and the other Brown are still shining through as the top two.

That said, if Brown gets into a game, watch out. His big play ability could force the coaches' hands if he gets too hot.

Others with a chance to make noise

David Avit transferred in from FCS Villanova and, at 235 pounds, he's a hulk of a runner. Villanova had great success with Avit as a short-yardage back, especially around the goal line, and he should see some situational work in that regard.

Sophomore Demarius "Man Man" Robinson flashed potential last year and had many thinking he may overtake Jason Brown's role as dark horse contender this year. But improvements from Brown, coupled with growing pains for the young Robinson, have stifled those plans. Even still, Brown is a highlight play waiting to happen, and the coaches will look to use him a couple times a game.

True freshman Cardae Mack is likely to get some looks at some point, too. Mack has been one of the most impressive true freshmen on this team, which is saying something considering the others alongside him. In other years, Mack would be legitimately contending for a starting role, but in this crowded room, Mack will have to settle for some spot duty as he adjusts to the college level.