2026 PFN Player Profile: Ryan Chappell-RB/LB-Central Cambria
Tagged under: District 6, News, Player Previews
Billy Splain | May 21, 2026
Ryan Chappell
RB LB
Central Cambria
Class Of 2027
Jersey #21
HT/WT 6 foot 220 pounds
rushing yards 1278 touchdowns 11 ypc 6.6
awards – Southern Alleghenies football Coaches Assn Offence MVP and Altoona player of the week
Twitter @RChappell21
Coach says: “Ryan Chappell is an absolute game-changer for us. He’s been such an important part of our team and we’re really proud of his accomplishments. He runs so hard and has true break away speed once he gets out into the open. On defense, he’s a true alpha and has set the tone with his physical play. He’s made big play after big play for us and has been so much fun to coach. He’s one of the best two-way players in the LHAC and we’re lucky to have him. He’s everything we want in a Red Devil. His work ethic is elite, he plays every snap like its the most important play of the game, and he truly cares about his teammates. I’m so proud of Ryan and can’t wait to see what else he will accomplish. He was a 2025 Team Captain, 2025 Team MVP, over 1,200 yards rushing, 13 total TD’s, tied for team lead in tackling, forced fumbles, and is a true impact player in the area. He has been working relentlessly since last season ended and we anticipate a huge season for him”.
Why do you play football?
I have always loved the game at such a young age and feel like it is who I am.
It’s gameday! What are you looking forward to the most?
Running out of the locker room with my teammates or after winning going into the locker room celebrating.
Who is your favorite sports star and WHY?
Saquon Barkley because I watching him growing up and always like the way he ran the football
Do you have a favorite play you remember the most? Explain:
when we were down 28-21 and the games almost over against Summerset and I had a 50+ yard run and tied the game to go into overtime and won.
What was last years season like for you?
It was a very big learning experience and a huge step for me in my football journey.
What are your goals for this coming season?
to be LHAC 1 running back to rush for 1700+ yard and to win districts
Who is the best player you ever lined up against?
I dont know
When the game is on the line, which college/professional coach would you like to call in the play?
Sean Mcvay
What stadium, HS/college/pro would you love to visit for a game?
Accursure stadium
What is your favorite Pro team, any sport?
Steelers
What game, yours, college or pro, was your favorite game you watched and why?
I love our Summerset game Because we were down 28-7 in the fourth quarter and came back and won in overtime.
What sports movie would you watch every day if you had to pick one and why?
Friday night lights I love that move because it has a huge thrill and they go game by game and show gritty football.
If your mom and dad are screaming at you from the stands, what is it they usually yell?
I think my dad is yelling for me to run.
Name one thing that you’d love to do in football that may never happen?
I would love to win state and have the town going crazy.
Who is your mentor, the person you want to be like? WHY?
My mentor would be brother or my dad because they never give up even when it is hard.
Name a sport you’d love to play but can’t:
I would like to do boxing because It shows strength and determination.
What is your most embarrassing sports moment?
to lose to Bedford when we shouldn’t have.
If you could only drive one car for the rest of your life, what would it be?
It would have to be some sort of truck
When you aren’t playing, practicing or training for sports, what is your go to activity and why?
I love to lift or hunting
What is your favorite football memory to date?
When we had overnight camp with all my friends for a week.
What is your favorite play to run?
teens or power
What scares you the most?
Not making it to the college level in football
Music of choice:
rap
What is the most food you ever ate in one sitting?
I dont know
What restaurant is your go to when you need a big meal?
Chipotle
What is your favorite vacation destination?
any beach
Do you remember what the first football game you saw was?
When Cam newton superman dove into the en zone
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