EJ and CJ: Running back duo looks to carry on Plum tradition in ground game

By: Giustino Racchini
Monday, August 18, 2025 | 5:56 PM

Purchase Photo Options

Purchase Photo Options

Previous Next

Over the last several years, Plum has had the running back position locked down.

Whether it was Eryck Moore’s record-breaking 2022 season or Nick Odom bursting onto the scene and leading the way the last two seasons, a good running back has been a staple at Plum.

This season, a running back duo will lead the charge, hoping to carry the offense the same way its predecessors did. Elijah (EJ) Jackson and CJ Hart have been teammates for years and now get to lead the running back room as seniors.

“It’s really exciting because we’ve been playing together for a long time, and now we’re at a higher level,” Hart said. “It’s going to be exciting to see what we can do because I know how hard we both work.”

Last season’s disappointing 2-8 record left an impression on both players. They don’t want to see those numbers next to their name anymore.

“We were 2-8 last year, and nobody likes that,” Jackson said. “So the whole team has been putting in a lot of work in the weight room.”

Plum has a new running backs coach this season to go along with the revamped group: Deji Karim, who played in the NFL from 2010-2013.

He has seen the game at all levels and adds valuable experiences and lessons for players who will play under him.

“I learned a lot, and as a young kid, there was a lot more I would have done looking back on it now,” Karim said. “It’s good to see what they’re doing here, and I just want to add a little more to it.”

In parts of four seasons with Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars and Houston Texans, Karim had 341 rushing yards in 33 games.

“I’m hoping to just bring my experience overall, not just from the NFL, but also college and high school,” Karim said. “I want to help these guys grow not only in football, but just as high school kids and going into the next level.”

Speaking of the next level, Hart received a scholarship offer from Akron this offseason, his first Division I offer. For Hart, however, that offer doesn’t affect his goals.

“It was exciting because I definitely worked hard for it, but it’s not really about the offers right now,” Hart said. “I’m trying to get the best experience in high school, trying to go to the playoffs and win a championship.”

Jackson is the senior member of the running back group heading into his senior season. Odom, who was the starter the last two seasons, did a lot to help usher in the new wave of talent.

“It was mainly his mentality, and the way he ran was like a textbook running back,” Jackson said. “I feel like you can learn a lot off of him and Eryck, too, and they inspire you because Plum always has a good running back.”

Playing multiple sports, especially running track and field, has helped running backs like Moore and Odom in the past, and Hart and Jackson are no different.

“I feel like every football player should be running track,” Jackson said. “Track helps a lot with football.”

Both Hart and Jackson run the 100- and 200-meter dash along with the sprint relays in the spring.

Plum kicks off its season with a battle against neighboring rival Franklin Regional at 7 p.m. Friday at home.

Tags: Plum