Putnam County senior Elijah Dunn isn’t interested in talking about individual accolades until one thing changes.
After finishing near the bottom of the region standings a year ago, the War Eagles enter the 2026 season with a renewed sense of purpose, and Dunn plans to be one of the leaders driving that turnaround.
“We’re trying to set the standard this year,” Dunn said. “We had a pretty bad season last year. We’re trying to go a lot farther and show what we can do.”
The 5-foot-10 senior will once again be one of Putnam County’s most versatile players, contributing as both a running back and linebacker. His willingness to do whatever the team needs has become one of his defining traits.
On offense, Dunn describes himself as a traditional “north-south” runner.
“I’m a north-and-south running back,” he said. “I like to go ahead and hit the hole. I’m a power back.”
That physical style carries over to the defensive side of the ball, where Dunn lines up all over the field. He sees action at nickel, outside linebacker, middle linebacker, and as a pass rusher, giving the War Eagles flexibility on defense.
While he enjoys carrying the football, Dunn admitted his favorite moments come when he’s playing defense.
Asked whether he’d rather score a game-winning touchdown or deliver a game-saving defensive play, his answer came quickly.
“Cause a fumble as a linebacker and send them home,” Dunn said with a laugh.
The senior has embraced a leadership role for Putnam County, particularly on defense. As one of the team’s captains, he takes pride in communicating assignments and helping teammates stay aligned before the snap.
“On the defensive side, that’s why I really like a team captain there,” Dunn said. “I can voice around and make sure all my teammates know what’s going on on the field.”
Dunn also has aspirations beyond high school. With June 15 opening the door for college coaches to begin contacting rising seniors directly, he is keeping an open mind about opportunities at the next level.
“I’m trying to see what’s out there,” Dunn said.
Unlike many prospects who focus on a single position, Dunn believes his versatility is one of his biggest strengths.
“I want them to see my ability that I can play anywhere on the field,” he said. “Whatever they think I’d fit best at, I’ll play that position.”
So far, Dunn has visited programs including Mercer, West Georgia, and Kentucky. He recently attended a camp at Mercer and has been in communication with the Bears’ running backs coach about returning for another visit.
What colleges will get, Dunn says, is more than just an athlete.
Asked what kind of player coaches would be adding to their program, his first response was simple.
“A dog,” he said. After thinking about it a little more, Dunn expanded on that answer.
“A coachable, talented player that knows how to do his job well.”
That mindset has helped Dunn build strength during the offseason as he prepares for what he hopes will be a memorable senior year. He currently weighs 215 pounds after regaining weight and muscle through offseason workouts.
As for personal goals, Dunn has lofty expectations. He hopes to eclipse 700 rushing yards while continuing to be a force on defense.
More importantly, he wants to help Putnam County establish a new standard and return to competing at a higher level.
“I’ve got high expectations for us this year,” Dunn said.