WEST VALLEY PREPS

Linebacker mentality makes Goodyear's Bryant elite running back

Millennium senior averaging 16 yards a carry

Millennium senior running back/linebacker D’Mari Bryant stands in the lobby of the Rise N’ Roar Center on the Goodyear campus. After rushing for more than 2,000 yards last season, Bryant is averaging nearly 16 yards a carry.

(Richard Smith/West Valley Preps)

Millennium senior running back D'Mari Bryant weaves through the Cactus defense on a 52-yard fourth quarter run as Cobras junior offensive/defensive line man Errin Brown gives chase Sept. 4.

(Courtesy Ed Russell Photography/For West Valley Preps)

Millennium junior D'Mari Bryant receives the honor of Arizona Cardinals high school football player of the week for rushing for 369 yards and five touchdowns on 34 carries Sept. 26, 2025 against Shadow Ridge. Bryant is the West Valley Preps offensive player of the year.

(Millennium Football on Instagram)

A junior that ranked third in Arizona in rushing yards and touchdowns last year is not only OK with less carries this season.

Millennium senior D’Mari Bryant asked to play outside linebacker — once again.

“Playing defense is something I’ve always done since youth football,” Bryant said. “I’ve been asking to do it since my sophomore year, so I’m glad it’s finally happened.”

You must be a member to read this story.

Join our family of readers starting at $5 for your first month and support local, unbiased journalism.

Already have an account? Log in to continue.

Otherwise, follow the link below to join.