Running back group is highlighted

Photo by Aryah Britt

Running with the running backs

It was all gas, no brakes, on Friday as it was the last day of week four of UCF spring camp.

Running backs were the big focus of the day, as we got to watch the entire group go to work. In a group that includes returners and new faces, it will be interesting to see how this group comes into fruition during the upcoming season.

Additionally, with both former running backs, Myles Montgomery, now a New England Patriot, and Jaden Nixon, now a Green Bay Packer, landing in the NFL as UDFAs, fans will wonder who we’re seeing out there come week one.

In the first week of spring training, we had the chance to speak with transfer running back Duke Watson and hear a bit more about his process and how he has acclimated to the Knights’ program.

For media, we had the chance to speak with running backs coach Jimmy Beal and players Taevion Swint, Agyeman Addae, and Landen Chambers to gain insight as to what this group looks like.

Coach Beal gives insight on the group

Coach Beal has enjoyed his experience with the running back this spring, he told the media. He also provided what the group has shown him from every running back to together as a unit.

• Beal made it clear that the running back room is defined by depth rather than a single featured player, emphasizing that multiple backs are capable of contributing meaningful snaps because of their different strong suits.

• He highlighted the high level of internal competition, noting that no back has clearly separated as the definitive starter, allowing the group to continue competing in every practice.

• Beal repeatedly pointed to the group’s versatility, describing the backs as complete players who can impact the game in multiple ways. He emphasized their ability to run effectively between the tackles, contribute in the passing game as receivers, and execute responsibilities in pass protection, framing them as “weapons” rather than one-dimensional runners.

• Pass protection is another priority, and he made it clear they must be dependable in protecting the quarterback, especially Barnett, who can produce with his legs.

• He also discussed the group’s physical running style, noting that the backs are showing toughness and intent when carrying the ball as they hope to align with what the offense will look like.

Filling in the shoes of Myles Montgomery and Jaden Nixon: What roles do the current running backs play?

One big question that Knights’ fans are probably wondering about is who will fill the shoes of the dynamic duo, Myles Montgomery and Jaden Nixon. Coach Beal gives insights into what that will look like and what each running back provides.

• Beal described transfer Duke Watson as an explosive and dynamic “slasher” with the ball in his hands. He highlighted Watson’s ability to find seams in wide zones and noted his experience allows him to process the game like a veteran.

• Replacing the physical production of past backs will involve leaning on Landon Chambers for a “downhill mentality.” Beal said that Chambers can bring that physicality in the third- and fourth-down and short-yardage situations. emphasizing his size and power.

• After missing most of last year due to a meniscus tear, Swint is back in the primary mix. Beal highlighted his special abilities and explosive, dynamic running style.

• Agyeman Addae, who stepped in late last season, is now a conceptual leader in the room. Beal praised his ability to understand the entire system, noting that he has prior experience as a walk-on last season.

• Beal noted that this new group might actually offer more in the passing game than previous rotations. He observed a difference in their ability to catch the ball in space and run perimeter routes compared to before.

Former running back Jaden Nixon making guest appearances

A similar face has been present at practice as former Knight and now Green Bay Packer, Jaden Nixon, has made several visits to UCF’s spring camp and offers experience to the group.

• Beal described Nixon as a very intelligent player during his time at UCF and valued having him back as an extra set of eyes.

• The bond between the two remains strong, with Beal even joking about a future role for the former back. He stated, “I told him, ‘Man, I got a spot for him whenever he’s ready.'”, though he acknowledged Nixon is currently focused on his own professional journey.

• Beal expressed his hope that Nixon would be playing NFL and praised the work ethic Nixon displayed during the draft process, he specifically recalled Nixon’s impressive performance at Pro Day.

Taevion Swint on his recovery and expectaions

Swint spoke to the media on Friday, discussing his recovery from an injury sustained in practice before the season began. Now that he has recovered, he spoke about his expectations for next season.

• Swint described the path back from his 2025 injury as a long process that required him to stay focused on daily improvement after missing his entire true freshman season.

• He feels more locked in compared to last year, citing the support and accountability of his teammates in the running back room as the primary reason he stayed on track during his time away from the field. The coaching staff and his teammates have shown a lot of enthusiasm for his return, which has bolstered his confidence as he heads into the new season.

• He believes he has a significant amount to prove this year, both to himself and to the local community, especially as the running back rotation is expected to be deep.

• His main objectives for the upcoming year are focused on team success, specifically winning the Big 12 championship and returning the program to a major bowl game.

Agyeman Addae on his return to UCF

Returning running back Agyeman Addae is another name to look at this season as he looks to grow beyond his freshman year last season as a walk-on. He spoke to the media on his return to UCF and explained what that means to him to prove something.

• Addae expressed immense satisfaction with the quick impact he made as a true freshman, particularly in the season finale against BYU. He noted that while last year showed flashes of his potential, he expects to do significantly more in the coming years.

• He remains in close contact with departed veterans Myles Montgomery and Jaden Nixon, seeking their “honest opinion” on his practice film to continue his development.

• Beyond running and catching, Addae expressed a desire to showcase his full skill set this season, even setting a personal goal to throw two touchdowns.

• For his sophomore campaign, he is focusing on “leveling up” by increasing his processing speed on the field and improving his overall strength and speed.

Landen Chambers talks about his transition to the FBS and his expectations

A new face among the group is Central Arkansas transfer Landen Chambers, a physical style running back, and he hopes to show he can perform at the FBS level. He spoke to the media about the change and what his expectations are for next season.

• Chambers described the transition as moving toward a more professional environment. He noted that at UCF, everything is significantly more detailed and requires players to constantly be on their toes compared to his experience at Central Arkansas.

• He credited Coach Jimmy Beal’s background with FCS players as a major factor in his smooth adjustment. He mentioned that Beal can break down concepts into a frame that makes sense for his specific transition.

• After a highly productive career at Central Arkansas, Chambers is excited to prove his talent at a “bigger level.” Being from Texas, he is particularly looking forward to playing against Big 12 opponents back in his home region in front of family.

• Addressing UCF’s past struggles in short-yardage situations, Chambers expressed total confidence in his ability to move the chains. He stated that if the team needs one yard, he expects to get five.

• With a reloaded running back room and offensive line, Chambers emphasized that bonding outside the facility—through activities like bowling, laser tag, and dinners—has been the key to getting the unit synchronized.

What’s Next?

With only one week left of spring camp, here is who the media will hear from in the final week as well as an additional event Knights’ fans can mark their calendars for.

• Linebackers coach Mark D’Onofrio and select players will speak to the media on Tuesday, April 28.

• Defensive tackles coach Kenny Martin and select players will speak to the media on Thursday, April 30.

• And finally, quarterbacks coach McKenzie Milton and select players will speak to the media on Saturday, May 2, following an open practice that will be held inside the Acrisure Bounce House.

• Following the final week of practice, head coach Scott Frost will speak to the media to recap spring practice on Tuesday, May 5.