Few athletes in Michigan’s 2027 class have the complete athletic profile of Orion Stanford as a Rising Star. A dynamic, multi-sport talent from Sterling Heights Stevenson, Stanford has already made a name for himself: breaking the school record in the 110M hurdles as a freshman and showcasing elite speed and explosiveness across football, basketball, and track.
🌟 Prospect Overview
Stanford’s combination of acceleration, fluid movement, and playmaking ability makes him one of the most dangerous players in the state with the ball in his hands. His athleticism translates seamlessly from track to the gridiron — where he stars on both sides of the ball — and even to the hardwood, where his quick-twitch movements and vertical leap stand out.
Watch Orion Stanford Highlights on HUDL
🏈 Offensive Breakdown
• Versatile Playmaker: Primarily lines up at running back but possesses the route-running and hands of a polished receiver.
• Explosive Runner: Hits the hole hard, accelerates instantly, and consistently finds open lanes.
• Home Run Threat: Can score from anywhere on the field; one missed tackle often leads to six points.
• Polished Route Runner: Excels in tight spaces and is effective against both man and zone coverage.
• 7on7 Standout: Shined on the summer circuit with Rising Stars Ballhawks, helping them win the Pylon 7on7 Tournament in Cincinnati by scoring multiple touchdowns and making key plays on both offense and defense.
Watch Stanford Break a 96-yard TD Via MaxPreps
🛡️ Defensive Breakdown
• Ballhawk Mentality: Reads quarterbacks well and reacts quickly to the football.
• Versatility in the Secondary: Comfortable lining up at corner, safety, or nickel: capable of defending both speed and size.
• Elite Recovery Speed: Rare acceleration allows him to close gaps and make plays from any position.
• Man Coverage Specialist: Can travel with the opposing team’s top receiver and compete on every snap.
Stanford’s defensive instincts and track-level speed make him a legitimate two-way prospect: one who can impact games no matter which side of the ball he’s on.
🔥Why You’ll Love Him
Orion Stanford is the type of player every coach dreams of: explosive, disciplined, and can be a legitimate two-way player/ return man. Whether he’s taking handoffs, catching passes, locking down receivers, or flipping the field as a returner, Stanford’s fingerprints are all over the game.
With his elite athletic foundation, Stanford’s ceiling is extremely high, and his testing numbers this summer are expected to draw major recruiting attention. Coaches can line him up anywhere — offense, defense, or special teams — and know he’ll make a difference.
⚡ Athletic Testing
via athletic.net
Explosive testing metrics that back up his on-field performance and track dominance.
🔮 Projection
After a strong 7-on-7 season and another productive fall, expect Orion Stanford to rise quickly up recruiting boards heading into his junior year. His athletic profile, positional versatility, and proven ability to perform in multiple sports project him as one of Michigan’s top Class of 2027 prospects.
Stanford has all the tools to become a multi-year starter at the college level: a difference-maker who can impact games in all three phases.
