2026 NFL Prospect Profile: Arizona State Running Back Raleek Brown

Raleek Brown entered college football as one of the most electric recruits in the country, and his path to becoming a 2026 NFL Draft prospect has been defined by adaptability, perseverance, and flashes of high-end playmaking ability. A former five-star recruit from Mater Dei High School in California, Brown arrived on campus with elite expectations thanks to his rare blend of speed, agility, and all-purpose versatility.

Brown’s high school résumé was dominant. He terrorized defenses as a runner, receiver, and return specialist, showcasing elite change-of-direction skills and home-run speed that separated him from his peers. Those traits followed him to the college level, where he began his career at USC before transferring to Arizona State in search of a more defined offensive role.

Early in his collegiate career, Brown was utilized in multiple positions, including snaps at wide receiver. While that versatility highlighted his athletic profile, it also delayed his emergence as a true feature back. After transferring to Arizona State and working through injury setbacks, Brown eventually found his footing as a primary offensive weapon for the Sun Devils.

When healthy and given consistent touches, Brown displayed the explosiveness and vision that made him such a highly regarded recruit. Arizona State leaned on him as both a runner and receiver, allowing him to attack defenses in space while also testing his ability to handle between-the-tackles work. His growth into a more complete back has placed him firmly on the radar of NFL evaluators entering the 2026 draft cycle.

Strengths

Explosive Acceleration

Brown’s burst is his calling card. He reaches top speed quickly and consistently threatens defenses with chunk plays once he clears the first level.

Lateral Agility

Few backs in the class can match Brown’s short-area quickness. His ability to make defenders miss in tight spaces allows him to create yardage when blocking breaks down.

Receiving Ability

Brown is a natural pass catcher with experience lining up outside the backfield. He runs fluid routes and can be featured on screens, swings, and option concepts.

Open-Field Vision

Once in space, Brown shows strong instincts and spatial awareness, setting up defenders and maximizing angles downfield.

Versatility

His experience at multiple positions makes him a scheme-friendly weapon for creative offensive coordinators.

Weaknesses

Play Strength

Brown’s lighter frame can be a limitation when running through contact. He is more effective at avoiding hits than breaking tackles.

Pass Protection

While willing, Brown remains inconsistent in blitz pickup and will need refinement to earn trust on third downs at the next level.

Durability Concerns

Injuries have interrupted his development, raising questions about long-term durability with an increased workload.

Inside Running Consistency

Brown is most dangerous in space and can be less decisive on downhill, power-based runs.

Conclusion

Raleek Brown is a high-upside offensive weapon whose athleticism and versatility align well with today’s NFL. While he may never be a classic power back, his explosiveness, receiving ability, and open-field creativity give him a clear path to contributing at the next level.

If Brown continues to refine his pass protection and add functional strength, he projects as a valuable change-of-pace back with matchup-driven upside. Draft Nation currently views Brown as a Day 3 prospect with the potential to outplay his draft slot in a modern, space-oriented offense.