LSU 5-star RB signee Harlem Berry named Gatorade Louisiana Football Player of the Year

Metairie (La.) St. Martin’s Episcopal five-star running back and LSU signee Harlem Berry has been named the Gatorade Louisiana Football Player of the Year.

Berry, the nation’s top running back, ran for over 2,100 yards and 41 touchdowns this season, averaging 12.7 yards per carry. Over his entire high school career, Berry accounted for over 8,500 rushing yards and 123 scores.

“Harlem has been the best player on that football team since his freshman year,” St. Martin’s head coach Lee Roussel said of Berry. “His elite speed is what makes him scary with the football. He can impact the game anywhere he lines up.”

The 5-foot-10, 182-pound Berry committed to LSU on Jan. 3, 2024 and signed with the Tigers this past Wednesday.

Harlem Berry Recruit Profile

He is the nation’s No. 17 overall prospect in the 2025 cycle according to the On3 Industry Ranking — a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. Berry is the No. 1 running back in the class and the No. 2 recruit from the state of Louisiana.

On3’s scouting and rankings team writes this about Berry as a prospect.

“The most electric running back in the 2025 cycle, with the ability to be a game-changer in the passing game. Possesses elite burst and effortless movement skills. Measured in at 5-foot-10, 182 pounds at the On3 Elite Series prior to his senior season. . Transfers his outstanding top end speed onto the field in a functional way. A threat to take it to the house on any touch. A light, springy mover who shifts gears and changes directions at full speed. Displays outstanding vision. Reads blocks and bursts through the line to the second level. The game moves slow for him at the prep level. Runs through contact and shows balance that belies his size. Showcased advanced pass-catching skills during the summer prior to his senior season. Has the skill level to legitimately line up at receiver. A massive mismatch out of the backfield when covered by linebackers.

“Registers as a high end athlete with elite speed on the track and in the combine setting. Won state titles in the 100 and 200 meters as a sophomore with times of 10.57 seconds and 21.43 seconds, respectively. Highly productive over his high school career. Rushed for 2,080 yards and 37 touchdowns on 13.2 yards per carry as a junior. Has a smaller frame and will need to continue adding good mass in order to carry a substantial load at the next level. Ceiling as a true every-down back will be determined by his ability to put on weight while maintaining his athleticism. Has a later birthday for the cycle, turning 17 years old in late May of his junior year.”