Explosive UVA RB with 12.6 YPC Burst Despite Injury Concerns
Noah Vaughn is a high-intensity, explosive 5-9, 185-pound Virginia RB who differentiates with elite burst, evidenced by a career-high 101 rushing yards on just 8 carries (12.6 YPC) in one half against William & Mary, including a 54-yard burst [1][3]. While his 2025 season totals show modest volume (23 carries, 174 yards, 0 TDs, 7.6 AVG) [5], his track background and state-championship pedigree signal rare speed and winning mentality [7]. However, he faces a fit caveat: Vaughn is recovering from an injury in Q2 of that standout game and will miss Weeks 12–13 of the 2025 regular season before the finale [2][3], with a prior torn ACL from Spring 2021 adding to his injury history [8]. For a team needing a change-of-pace, dynamic weapon rather than a volume back, Vaughn offers high upside if managed carefully around his health.
