Staying: Keyjuan Brown, RB
Sophomore running back Keyjuan Brown began the season as the 3rd string running back with low expectations in terms of production from much of the fan base. He was supposed to be the guy who came in sporadically to give the starting duo a break now and again and to be a major running force in garbage time for the Louisville offense. This all changed rather quickly as both Isaac Brown and Duke Watson were soon sidelined or limited due to early season injuries that plagued them both for most of the year.
Brown soon went from 3rd string to 1st string in a matter of games, a title and position he lived up to in every way for coach Jeff Brohm. He was a force and the key reason for success in most games when he was in the backfield as the lead back. He finished the year with 81 carries for 572 rushing yards (7.3 yards per carry) and six touchdowns. He finished up a stellar 2026 campaign with 15 attempts for 112 rushing yards in Louisville’s bowl game. Of the running backs present in the running back room this season, Keyjuan Brown may be the most likely (and potentially most desired) running back to return to Louisville next season.