Notre Dame Commit Profile: Running Back Javian Osborne
In a significant development for Notre Dame’s 2026 football recruiting class, four-star running back Javian Osborne from Forney, Texas, has committed to the Fighting Irish. Standing at 5’9″ and weighing 195 pounds, Osborne is widely regarded as one of the top running back prospects in the nation. His commitment adds a dynamic and powerful presence to Notre Dame’s backfield, bolstering their offensive arsenal for the upcoming seasons.
Recruiting Journey
Osborne’s recruitment journey has been marked by interest from numerous prestigious programs across the country. He received offers from Alabama, Georgia, Ohio State, Oregon, Tennessee, USC, and Miami, among others. Initially, Texas appeared to be the frontrunner in his recruitment, with Osborne frequently visiting the Longhorns and expressing admiration for their offensive system. However, after a pivotal visit to Notre Dame in March 2025, Osborne’s perspective shifted. He described the experience as “surreal,” highlighting the legacy walk and the opportunity to meet the coaching staff as factors that made a lasting impression. This visit played a crucial role in his decision to commit to Notre Dame.
Playing Style and Strengths
Osborne is known for his compact build and high-volume rushing ability. He possesses a one-cut running style with solid acceleration and effective jump cuts, making him a formidable force in the backfield. His vision and ability to navigate through defenses have been key components of his success. While there are concerns regarding his balance and limited experience as a pass-catcher, his overall skill set positions him as a strong multi-year contributor at the Power 4 level and potentially an NFL Draft candidate.
Impact on Notre Dame’s Recruiting Class
With Osborne’s commitment, Notre Dame’s 2026 recruiting class now includes 14 pledges, with players from eight different states. The class is currently ranked as the No. 2 class nationally according to 247Sports. Osborne becomes the first running back in this class and the second-highest ranked verbal commitment, following five-star pass rusher Rodney Dunham.
Coaching Staff and Development
A significant factor in Osborne’s decision to commit to Notre Dame was the opportunity to work with running backs coach Deland McCullough. McCullough’s extensive experience and success in developing running backs for the NFL were key selling points for Osborne. Osborne expressed confidence that McCullough’s coaching would provide him with the tools necessary to succeed at the next level.
Javian Osborne’s commitment to Notre Dame represents a significant addition to the Fighting Irish’s 2026 recruiting class. His blend of power, vision, and work ethic makes him a valuable asset to the team’s future success. With the guidance of experienced coaches like Deland McCullough, Osborne has the potential to develop into a standout player in college football and beyond.
