Missouri added another piece to its 2026 recruiting class Saturday night as Lee’s Summit running back announced his commitment to the Tigers, giving Mizzou an in-state playmaker with intriguing upside despite entering the cycle as an unranked prospect.
Preston Hatfield, a 5-foot-9, 170-pound back, held offers from Missouri and Missouri Western State and is currently rated as a zero-star recruit by the major recruiting services. Still, his high school production suggests a player who could outperform his recruiting profile at the next level.
A standout for Lee’s Summit High School, Hatfield played a key role in the Tigers’ Class 6 state championship run in 2025, highlighted by a thrilling 41–37 win over previously 13–1 Nixa. In the title game, Hatfield delivered a historic performance, rushing for 457 yards and four touchdowns, while also contributing 37 passing yards.
Across the season, Hatfield piled up 1,662 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns on 191 carries, showcasing durability, explosiveness, and vision. He also flashed versatility by throwing for 520 yards and three touchdowns, adding another dimension to his offensive skill set.
Hatfield becomes the latest in-state addition for Missouri, joining fellow Lee’s Summit product Karsten Fiene, a three-star wide receiver per 247Sports. His commitment reinforces the Tigers’ emphasis on identifying and developing local talent.
At the college level, Hatfield will enter a crowded but talented running back room led by returning contributors Ahmad Hardy and Jamal Roberts. Missouri has also added Xai’Shaun Edwards (Houston Christian) and Vaaimalae Fonoti (Montana) through the transfer portal, while incoming three-star freshman Maxwell Warner adds further depth.
While Hatfield may lack a recruiting star rating, his elite high school production and championship pedigree give Missouri a developmental prospect with the potential to exceed expectations as he transitions to the SEC.
