Nov 30, 2024; Tucson, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils running backs coach Shaun Aguano against the Arizona Wildcats during the Territorial Cup at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

ASU RB Coach Shaun Aguano Breaks Down Competition, Development at Position

Originally posted on Arizona State Sun Devils on SI
By Kevin Hicks | Last updated Mar 27, 2026 7:00 AM ET

TEMPE -- Arizona State has quietly become one of the most optimal destinations to develop running backs for the professional level over the last 20 years.

A large piece of that equation is incumbent running backs coach Shaun Aguano, who has sent four players to the NFL level since taking on the role before the 2019 season.

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The legendary Arizona high school coach spoke with media after Thursday's practice - diving into numerous pertinent topics including development and position battles - during the availability

To watch the full availability, view below.

Running Back Battle Continues to Go On

Kyson Brown has returned with a vengance after missing the final two-plus months of the season due to an injury. The Mississippi native entered the 2025 season as the starting player at the position, and appears poised to take back the role for himself in 2026. Brown secured several impressive receptions during Thursday's practice and certainly played with a physical edge.

Jason Brown Jr. is returning for his third season in Tempe and might be the back with the most to gain this spring/fall. The former four-star recruit is a dynamic athlete, has a willingness to play special teams, and flashed true star potential in the final game of the Sun Devils' season in 2025.

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Demarius "Man Man" Robinson is the other returning underclassmen at the position. The native of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma is opening up his second season in Tempe with a chance to expand on a promising start to his career. the 5'9" back has split time between playing in the backfield and taking reps as a returner during spring.

The Sun Devils also welcomed a pair of incoming transfers in January to make the room even more well-rounded. Villanova transfer David Avit jumps off of the page in terms of pure strength, and was praised by head coach Kenny Dillingham for having a strong practice on Thursday. Delaware State transfer Marquis Gillis has been handed comparisons to Cam Skattebo at times, and he appears to have potential to climb up the depth chart in his own right.

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Cardae Mack arguably has as much upside as anyone else at the position moving into the future. The true freshman was one of the top rated recruits that Dillingham earned a pledge from in the 2026 class. The native of Texas is one of many Sun Devils that will continue to build the Texas-to-Tempe pipeline.

This article first appeared on Arizona State Sun Devils on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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