Heisman Trophy Watch 2015: Where top 15 candidates ranked as recruits

Oct 18, 2014; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Derrick Henry (27) carries the ball for a touchdown against the Texas A&M Aggies at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

Player: Derrick Henry
247Sports Overall Composite Ranking: No. 30
Position Ranking: No. 1
Heisman Odds: +1800

Derrick Henry was a versatile athlete coming out of high school. Ranked as the top athlete in the state of Florida, Henry was the fourth overall player in the 2013 class from the state of Florida. The three ahead of him? Vernon Hargreaves III, Laremy Tunsil, and Matthew Thomas.

He put up video game-like numbers in high school, rushing for 2,465 yards as a freshman, a mark that also contributed to 26 touchdowns. From there, the sky was the limit for Thomas who ended his high school career rushing for 4, 261 yards and 55 touchdowns further opening eyes. In total, Thomas accumulated 12,212 yards and 62 touchdowns during what was a tremendous high school career.

Notching offers from 17 teams, he was recruited by then-Alabama defensive coordinator Jeremy Pruitt and associate head coach Burton Burns.

He was part of a class that ranked No. 1 in the country and No. 1 in the SEC. The class included six five-star recruits and two other running backs, totaling 26 different commitments.

Henry has since put up 1,372 yards and 14 touchdowns during his Alabama career, and has become one of the most potent backs in the country.

Next: Dak Prescott