Led by offensive coordinator/running backs coach Christian Taylor, W&M's backfield enters the fall campaign with limited game experience but loads of talent and potential. Headlining the unit is a trio of returning standouts who all made an impact during the abbreviated 2021 spring slate, while a number of underclassmen will provide depth and push for playing time.  
 
A VaSID All-State selection last season, redshirt freshman Malachi Imoh ranked sixth in the CAA in rushing (74.0) and seventh in all-purpose yards per game (85.0). Highlighting his rookie campaign was a tremendous effort in the win against Elon when he rushed for 137 yards with three touchdowns on just 10 carries – a performance that garnered CAA Rookie of the Week and STATS National Rookie of the Week distinction. A very explosive athlete, Imoh is extremely fast and quick with good ball skills. Additionally, he is one of the smartest players on the team and a very quick learner – all attributes that should translate into even greater success this fall. 
 
Although he was limited to just one game due to injury last spring, junior Donavyn Lester is a tremendous talent who possesses the size, speed and strength to be an elite running back. As a true freshman in 2019, Lester saw action in 11 games and earned a pair of starts, finishing the year with 271 rushing yards on 66 carries with four touchdowns. In addition to his strength as a runner, he has the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield.
 
Junior Elijah Burns also returns to the backfield after a spring slate in which he appeared in all three games and earned a pair of starts. A smart player with very good work ethic, he continued to improve his speed, strength and quickness during the offseason.
 
Although neither DreSean Kendrick and Mattijs Lasore recorded any carries last season, both redshirt freshmen are talented athletes who will continue to push for reps as they develop. Kendrick moves to the backfield after playing wide receiver last season and has demonstrated the natural instincts to be successful. Additionally, he will provide the Tribe with another option in the passing game out of the backfield and is an explosive athlete with the ball in his hands. Lasore blends good size, speed and strength with an outstanding work ethic. His role should continue to expand as he gains increased knowledge and experience. 
 
A tremendous prospect who chose W&M over multiple FBS offers, freshman Martin Lucas joins the Tribe after an outstanding prep career at Abingdon High School (Abingdon, Va.) where he was one of the state's top running backs the past few years. A big, strong, physical runner, Lucas has the ability to make an immediate impact during his rookie campaign.
 
Junior Joey Nameth returns as the Tribe's only fullback this fall after an offseason that saw him continue to develop his strength and quickness. Additionally, the former linebacker has continued to grow his knowledge of the position and should be an important asset this season.