Youngstown State RB Donald Barksdale brings verified big-play burst and proven workhorse production
Barksdale enters Youngstown State with a track record of explosive production and versatility: in his high school career at Steel Valley, he topped 5,000 rushing yards and 80 total touchdowns, then translated that into an early college sample of 44 rushing yards on 4 carries in 2025 for YSU.[1][8] His best calling cards are short-area burst, contact balance, and the ability to tilt games as a runner, returner, and defensive playmaker; that two-way competitiveness suggests a high-motor fit for a staff that values toughness and all-purpose impact.[6][8]
