Aug. 27, 2026, 7:02 a.m. ET
Offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock described the pair as “home run hitters” due to their big-play ability. Not enough can be said about the talent that Notre Dame football brought in during the 2026 recruiting cycle, as many of them have begun to make their marks early in their careers. Two of them, running backs Jonaz Walton and Javian Osborne have managed to impress offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock.
He would say during his recent media availability that both of them are “home run hitters” according to Matt Freeman, which is a great sign for the future at the position for the Irish. Walton and Osborne both entered the program as a 4-star recruits, and it looks like they may have gotten it right. There isn’t a set pecking order for the backs, as it does look like Aneyas Williams will be the starter and Nolan James will get plenty of run as well. Walton and Osborne have a great opportunity to play early, but they’ll obviously have to earn it. While the losses of Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price will loom large for Notre Dame, they have multiple backs on the current roster that can get the job done. Contact/Follow us @IrishWireND on X (Formerly Twitter), and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Notre Dame news, notes, and opinions. Follow Mike on X: @MikeFChen
