Andrew Beard, Prince Avenue Christian’s superstar running back, is one of the most highly touted running backs to come through the state in many years. Beard was the engine of the Wolverine offense in 2024, helping them make their fifth straight state title appearance.
He rushed for 1,937 yards and 21 touchdowns as a sophomore last year. In addition to his production on the ground, he caught 32 passes for 525 yards and five more touchdowns. However he missed the state championship game with an injury, which hurt Prince Avenue’s chances of securing their third straight title.
Beard is the nephew of Georgia great and Heisman finalist Garrison Hearst. Much like Hearst, Beard began his high school career at Lincoln County, but after his freshman season, he transferred to Prince Avenue. He will once again be the focal point of the offense as fellow 2027 player and 3-star quarterback Ben Musser continues to develop as a passer.
Beard is a 4-star recruit and holds offers from nearly every major program in the country. As of now, Georgia appears to be the front-runner. With both the familial connection and the close proximity, the Bulldogs have a clear advantage. Other top contenders include Tennessee, Oklahoma, and possibly Alabama.
In a different era, Beard would have been classified as an all-purpose back. He fills a role similar to former Georgia and current Bills running back James Cook, a quick and powerful runner who also thrives as a receiving threat. Like Cook, he has the ability to split out wide and operate as a slot receiver, a role many elite running backs now take on at both the college and pro levels. With the rise of versatile stars like Jahmyr Gibbs and Bijan Robinson, the all-purpose back is more valued than ever, and Beard fits that mold perfectly.
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