Who Steps Up at Running Back in 2026?

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The 2025 college football season saw Notre Dame's ground game thrive under the dynamic duo of Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price, who combined for over 2,000 rushing yards and helped propel the Fighting Irish to a strong campaign. But with both stars declaring for the NFL Draft—Love projected as the top running back in the 2026 class and a potential top-10 pick—the backfield faces a significant reset. Love's explosive speed and Price's vision leave big shoes to fill, while the transfer of Gi'Bran Payne to Cincinnati further thins the experienced ranks. As head coach Marcus Freeman looks ahead to 2026, the focus shifts to a mix of returning talent, injury recoveries, and highly touted freshmen. Here's a breakdown of the players poised to step up and keep Notre Dame's rushing attack among the nation's best.

The Front-Runner: Aneyas Williams

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Entering his junior season, Aneyas Williams stands out as the most proven commodity in the room. The tough back from Hannibal, Missouri, has already flashed star potential, racking up 224 rushing yards and five touchdowns in limited action behind Love and Price in 2025. On a per-carry basis, Williams has been efficient, earning praise for his elusiveness and ability to break big plays—qualities that could make him Notre Dame's next 1,000-yard rusher. Fans and analysts alike see him as the natural RB1, with his experience in the system giving him an edge in spring practices. If Williams stays healthy and seizes the lead role, he could form the backbone of an offense transitioning with quarterback CJ Carr at the helm.

The Comeback Kid: Kedren Young

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Sophomore Kedren Young represents a wildcard with high upside. A powerful, bell-cow type runner at 6-foot-1 and 220 pounds, Young showed promise as a true freshman in 2024 with 21 carries and a touchdown. However, a knee injury sidelined him for the entire 2025 season, leaving questions about his readiness. If he returns to full strength, Young's physicality could complement Williams' speed, creating a thunder-and-lightning tandem reminiscent of past Irish greats.

The Depth Piece: Nolan James Jr.

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As a sophomore, Nolan James Jr. brings fresh legs and untapped potential. The former true freshman saw action in just four games in 2025, totaling 37 rushing yards, but his time learning behind the veterans could pay dividends. At 5-foot-11 and 195 pounds, James is a versatile back who could contribute in third-down situations or as a change-of-pace option. While not the flashiest name, his development in spring ball will be key—analysts project him competing for the No. 3 spot, providing valuable depth in a position prone to wear and tear. 

The Freshman Phenoms: Javian Osborne and Jonaz Walton

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Notre Dame's 2026 recruiting class, hailed as one of the program's best, injects elite talent into the backfield with four-star prospects Javian Osborne and Jonaz Walton. Osborne, a speedy playmaker from Forney, Texas, is seen as a special talent who could see early playing time due to his vision and agility. Walton, out of Carrollton, Georgia, draws comparisons to former Irish star Kyren Williams with his compact 5-foot-9, 205-pound frame and impressive high school stats. As the No. 11 running back in the class, Walton's multi-sport background (including track and shot put) suggests explosive athleticism that could translate quickly. While freshmen often redshirt, don't be surprised if one or both crack the rotation, especially if injuries arise.

Portal Possibilities and Overall Outlook

Coach Freeman and running backs coach Ja’Juan Seider have a track record of developing talent, and with a loaded offensive line returning, the group has the support to succeed. Even though 2026 may be a transition year for Notre Dame's running backs, the blend of experience in Williams, power in Young, and raw talent in the freshmen could keep the Irish ground game humming. Expect Aneyas Williams to lead the charge, with competition driving the unit forward. If this group gels, Notre Dame could once again boast one of college football's most formidable rushing attacks.

Go Irish!