Christian Rhodes officially committed to SMU as part of National Signing Day last week.

Lake Highlands running back Christian Rhodes rushes for a first down versus Richardson Berkner on October 18, 2024. Photo courtesy of Mike Duhon Photography.

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Rhodes signed a letter of intent to continue his athletic career in University Park on Dec. 3 at Lake Highlands High School. The six-foot-one running back announced his commitment to SMU in February and is currently ranked as the 14th-best running back in the Class of 2026 by 247Sports. Following the end of the regular season, he was unanimously named a First Team All-District selection.

Described by 247 scout Gabe Brooks as a “complete back who’s more than a one-trick pony,” Rhodes finished the 2025 season with 1,155 yards (7.4 ypc) and 11 touchdowns on the ground this season. He also displayed pass-catching promise in his senior year, hauling in 30 receptions for 413 yards and three touchdown passes from Highland Park transfer Chuck Smith. In his junior season, Rhodes ran for 1,271 yards in his junior year en route to a second consecutive district championship for the Wildcats. 

The four-star Lake Highlands product is the highest-rated prospect in SMU’s 2026 recruiting class, currently ranked 25th in the nation. Three other four-stars — a wide receiver, an offensive and a defensive lineman — have also committed.