Denton Ryan 2023 running back Kalib Hicks is one of the most sought after backs in Texas with over 20 offers.

On Thursday, the 5-foot-11, 200-pound Hicks narrowed that list to five.

Hicks is down to Arkansas, Oklahoma, Alabama, Miami and TCU.

He is ranked as the No. 46 overall prospect and the No. 4 running back in DCTF's 2023 class rankings. Hicks rushed 216 times for 1,448 yards and 18 touchdowns while leading Ryan to a 12-2 record in 2021. He was also a key contributor for the the Raiders when they won the state championship in 2020. His combination of quick feet and powerful running make him tough to tackle, and once he gets into the open field, there are not many people who can run with him.  

Hicks broke down his Top 5 with DCTF:

Alabama:  They have a winning culture and a coach like Saban knows the game of football. He knows how to use players with different styles. Just look at all the backs they have produced throughout the years.

Oklahoma: They have a strong culture for the community and for football. Coach [Demarco] Murray feels like he could possibly be a good mentor for me and a good coach at my position because he's played in the league. Also, the education of course.  I love what Coach Venables is doing over there and I like the style of offense as well. 

Arkansas:  They are a great program and are in the SEC of course. I have a good relationship with the coaching staff. It's a great education and it's just beautiful down there. I see the plan they have for me. 

Miami: Because of their past success, they definitely have a strong culture. It's just something I want to experience and visit and just get away from the south. Coach Smith is a great coach and they have backs in rotation just like the rest of the schools do. 

TCU: It is pretty close to my home. Coach Jones and Coach Dykes are trying to put on for DFW and find talent in the metroplex and build something strong and change the program around. I can feel that vision. I like their offense and their interest in me. 

Hicks will visit Oklahoma June 10-12, and while that is the only visit officially locked in, he plans to see Arkansas and Alabama sometime in the future.