Running back Jashon Benjamin is the only running back in the 2023 recruiting class for Rutgers football, making him the possible future lead back for the Scarlet Knights. The Florida native has the potential to be a strong part of the backfield.
Benjamin attended Pahokee High School (Pahokee, FL) where he played running back and defensive back. He helped the Blue Devils to a 9-3 record, along with an appearance in the FHSAA Regional Final game during his senior year.
At running back, Benjamin finished his senior season with 1,312 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns, averaging 8.4 yards per carry. He also caught 30 receptions for 688 yards and four touchdowns.
A three-star recruit, he was a multi-sport athlete where he also ran track.
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According to 247Sports, Benjamin was a three-star and the No. 109 running back in the nation. He received 13 offers including from Arkansas State, Memphis, Purdue and Tulane among others.
Film Breakdown
When watching the film, Benjamin is clearly explosive when running the ball.
This shouldn’t be a surprise as Benjamin ran a 10.7 in the 100-meter dash and he shows off that speed when he reaches the second level.
But he is also physical as Benjamin, at 5-foot-8 and 194 pounds, can run the ball in between the tackles in the power running game. Also, he is a zone-style runner, using his quickness and explosiveness to find open running lanes. Benjamin has excellent vision and looks to hit the big play every time he touches the ball.
In the passing game, Benjamin has excellent hands and can be dangerous in the screen game. He can line up in the slot and cause mismatches against linebackers when running routes.
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Areas to work on
If Benjamin wants to be an every-down back, he will need to add more strength, although he is already pretty powerfully built. In the NCAA, the average running back weighs roughly 204.75 Ibs., meaning that Benjamin will need to put on some size.
Another area of improvement for the future Scarlet Knight is patience. Benjamin needs to work on following his blockers. His patience will come with maturity and practice.
Jashon Benjamin emotional after early signing with Rutgers University and speaks on what this means to him along with the entire Pahokee community. @RFootball @JashonB1 @Pahokee_MSHS pic.twitter.com/J3PEkq1Go0
— New Era Prep (@EraPrep) December 21, 2022
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