Scouting Report: Tradarian Ball

 

Overview

Tradarian Ball is one of the most explosive and versatile offensive weapons in the 2026 class. A multi-sport athlete with verified track speed and three years of high-end production in Texas 5A football, Ball has committed to Oregon as the Ducks continue to bolster their Texas pipeline. Listed at 5-foot-9, 170 pounds, Ball may not possess prototypical size, but he makes up for it with elite short-area burst, lateral agility, and football IQ.

He’s a rare "do-both" offensive player—legitimately capable of functioning as a full-time running back or wide receiver in a high-major college offense. Whether aligned in the backfield, the slot, or out wide, Ball creates matchup problems and maximizes every touch with his ability to accelerate, cut, and finish.

---

Athleticism

Ball’s verified track times back up what the film shows: true game-breaking speed.

• 100m PRs: 10.51 (sophomore), 10.84 (junior), 10.82

• 200m PRs: 22.69 and 22.71 (junior season)

• Also competed in the 4x100 and 4x200 relays, high jump (5-6), and long jump (19-5)

His elite acceleration is his calling card—what evaluators often refer to as “turbocharged” burst. That twitch shows up on screen immediately, particularly in junior highlights where he routinely erases pursuit angles on jet sweeps, screens, and inside zone runs. Ball’s high school offense used him as a vertical threat both from the backfield and in the slot, allowing his speed to stress defenses in space.

---

Production

Ball’s numbers are as eye-popping as his film:

• 2024 (Junior):

  • 777 rushing yards, 11 TDs on 11.43 YPC

  • 44 receptions, 1,017 yards, 14 TDs on 23.1 YPR

  • Led Texas High to a 12–1 record and deep playoff run

• 2023 (Sophomore):

  • 1,285 rushing yards, 12 TDs on 7.0 YPC

  • 24 receptions, 400 yards, 6 TDs

• 2022 (Freshman):

  • 739 rushing yards, 11 TDs

  • 11 receptions, 221 yards, 2 TDs

  • First-team all-district selection

His junior season marked a transformation into a true hybrid weapon. Not only did his receiving workload double, but his explosive play rate soared, with 25 total touchdowns and 20+ yards per touch on average. The tape reflects these numbers—long scores off screen passes, inside handoffs, wheel routes, and vertical seams.

---

Running Back Traits

As a ball-carrier, Ball combines his elite acceleration with excellent vision and lateral agility. He presses blocks with patience, shows a natural feel for cutback lanes, and displays suddenness in his jump cuts. Despite his size, he absorbs contact well and keeps his legs driving through arm tackles. Critics may question his ability to break tackles at the next level, but junior film proves otherwise—he shows balance through contact and creative footwork in tight spaces.

Ball himself addressed this concern, stating:

“I know a lot of reporters say I lack breaking tackles. But if you turn the film on, you can see that I don’t have no trouble breaking tackles, even though I’m at 180 [pounds].”

He’s not a bruiser, but he’s tougher than he looks—and slippery in traffic.

---

Receiver Traits

Ball’s route-running and ball skills make him a true receiving threat. He’s not just a back who can catch—he’s a receiver in his own right. His ability to attack the ball in the air, adjust to deep throws, and separate downfield is striking. He routinely runs slot fades, deep overs, and option routes with timing and precision.

“I’m really two different people when I’m in the backfield versus being in the slot or outside… I bring the hands of a receiver,” Ball explained.

His body control and tracking ability stand out on junior tape—particularly on sideline grabs and contested catches. He’s a nightmare for linebackers and safeties in man coverage.

---

Play Style and Role Projection

Ball projects as a true all-purpose weapon at the collegiate level—one capable of handling 10–12 carries and 6–8 targets per game while adding serious value as a returner. He’s ideal for a creative offensive coordinator who can move him around the formation, align him in the slot, motion him into the backfield, and isolate him against slower defenders.

He will likely benefit from playing alongside a traditional between-the-tackles back, which will allow Oregon to use him in space, on the edge, and in the passing game. Think: LaMichael James meets De’Anthony Thomas in a modernized system.

---

Football IQ and Leadership

Ball plays with excellent awareness, understanding how to set up blocks and time his cuts. His comments reflect a player who’s engaged in his own development, recognizes both his strengths and areas for growth, and is already taking a leadership role as a recruiter.

“Really, my biggest goal is just being a team player… being more outspoken at practice… just making our team better.”

He’s also committed to helping build Oregon’s 2026 class, already connecting with fellow commits and national targets.

---

Areas for Improvement

• Functional Strength: While he breaks arm tackles, he will benefit from adding weight and strength to hold up at the high-major level and through contact in blitz pickup.

• Pass Protection: Like most high school backs, Ball hasn’t been asked to pass block often. This will be a key area for early development.

• Top-End Size: At 5’9”, 170-180 pounds, Ball is smaller than a traditional back or outside receiver. He’ll need to maximize his leverage, angles, and balance at the next level.

---

Projection

Ball is a plug-and-play offensive weapon in the mold of modern NFL utility backs like Jahmyr Gibbs or Aaron Jones. He will likely contribute early in Eugene in a rotational role and grow into a high-usage player as he adds strength. His combination of verified speed, refined receiving ability, and production against Texas 5A competition screams long-term potential.

With continued development, Ball is a high-ceiling prospect with NFL Draft upside as either a modern RB or slot weapon.

---

Player Comparison: Jahmyr Gibbs meets Curtis Samuel
College Projection: High-Major Starter / Offensive Focal Point
NFL Potential: Top-100 pick with development, especially in a dual-role offense

---

📽 Watch Tradarian Ball’s Highlights:

 

• Freshman Year

• Sophomore Year