2026 Top-100 RB Damarius Yates decommits from Mississippi State

De Kalb (Miss.) Kemper County four-star running back Damarius Yates, Class of 2026, has decommitted from Mississippi State, he announced on Friday.

He was pledged to the in-state Bulldogs since Sept. 15.

Yates is the No. 74 overall prospect and No. 7 RB in the 2026 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He’s also the No. 4 junior in Mississippi.

On3 ranks the 5-foot-9.5, 180-pounder higher than other recruiting services. He checks in at No. 67 overall, No. 6 at RB and No. 4 in the Magnolia State, per the 2026 On300.

“Thanks to Mississippi State coaches and staff for taking their chance on me during my recruitment but Mississippi State is not the place for me,” Yates wrote announcing his decision on X.

As a junior for Kemper County, Yates rushed for 1,339 yards and 15 touchdowns while also hauling in 30 catches for 453 yards and four touchdowns. He was one of five prospects in the Bulldogs’ 2026 recruiting class.

The likes of Florida State, Tennessee, Nebraska, Ohio State and Alabama have hosted Yates this year. He’s now back on the board and will be a top target for a slew of high-profile programs moving forward.

Prospects still in Mississippi State’s 2026 class include: Tupelo (Miss.) three-star running back Jaeden Hill, Tupelo three-star athlete Iverson McCoy, Winnsboro (Texas) wide receiver Camden Capehart and Macon (Miss.) Noxubee County WR Jaiden Taylor.