A former NFL running back has joined the coaching staff at North High School in Arizona. Ryan Torain has been appointed as the running backs coach for the 2026 season, as announced on social media.
Torain, who excelled at Topeka West High School and Shawnee Mission Northwest High School in Kansas, later took the junior college route before transferring to Arizona State University. During his time at Arizona State, he made a notable impact, earning all-Pac-10 honors by accumulating nearly 1,800 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns over two seasons.
In the 2008 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos selected Torain in the fifth round. However, his professional career was marred by injuries, including a fractured elbow that sidelined him early on. Despite these setbacks, he debuted in the NFL later that season and made his first start against the Cleveland Browns, where he rushed 12 times for 68 yards. Unfortunately, he suffered a torn ACL that ended his season prematurely.
Torain also had tenures with the Washington Redskins and the New York Giants before ultimately retiring from professional football.
Now, Torain is set to collaborate with Grant Sanders, the new head football coach at North High School, as they work to revitalize the program. The Mustangs faced challenges last season, finishing with a 3-7 record, although they did manage to win three out of their last five games after starting the season 0-5.
Coach Sanders expressed his enthusiasm on social media, stating, “Excited to announce, one of my best friends and coach will be joining me.” During their season-ending surge, the Mustangs recorded three shutout victories against Central, South Mountain, and Browne.
The team will look to build on this momentum, with freshman Koa Williams returning as the leading rusher after totaling 73 yards on nine carries last year.
