Bryson Donelson

Donelson was used sparingly early in his freshman season, seeing just 44 carries in his first eight games while backing up Malik Sherrod. However, after Sherrod was sidelined with an injury, Donelson eventually took over as the Bulldogs' primary back, finishing the campaign with 263 yards and three touchdowns on 33 carries in his final three contests. Donelson will be the early favorite to open 2025 as Fresno State's primary back and seems the likely candidate to handle the bulk of the carries ahead of Elijah Gilliam and Arizona transfer Rayshon Luke, who should see some work as well. Given the roster overhaul at both quarterback and wide receiver, there's a definite possibility Fresno State leans more heavily on the run in 2025, and Donelson looks like the primary contender to benefit most if that occurs. Read Past Outlooks