Top-100 RB recruit Brian Bonner names Notre Dame to top five schools list
Brian Bonner Jr., a standout running back from Valencia High School in Santa Clarita, California, has rapidly ascended the ranks of the 2026 recruiting class. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 185 pounds, Bonner’s junior year statistics are a testament to his versatility and athleticism. He amassed 1,493 rushing yards on 197 carries, resulting in 25 touchdowns, and showcased his receiving skills with 40 receptions for 498 yards and four additional scores.
Bonner’s impressive performances have not gone unnoticed. He has received scholarship offers from several prestigious programs, including Georgia, Michigan, Nebraska, Notre Dame, Penn State, UCLA, Stanford, and Washington. citeturn0search0 Notably, he has scheduled visits to Washington on March 8, Michigan on March 27, and Penn State on April 7.
Notre Dame’s interest in Bonner is particularly significant. The Fighting Irish extended an offer to him earlier this month, which Bonner received with enthusiasm. He expressed his excitement, acknowledging Notre Dame’s status as a top program and their recent appearance in the national championship.
In addition to Bonner, Notre Dame has been actively recruiting other elite running backs in the 2026 class. One such prospect is Jonaz Walton from Carrollton Central High School in Georgia. Walton, standing at 5-foot-9 and weighing 190 pounds, announced his top ten schools, including Notre Dame, Alabama, Auburn, Florida, Florida State, Georgia, Miami, Oregon, Stanford, and Tennessee. Despite recent coaching changes at Notre Dame, Walton remains interested in the program.
Another notable prospect is Jonathan Hatton Jr. from Steele High School in Cibolo, Texas. Hatton, a 6-foot, 205-pound running back, has garnered attention from numerous elite programs, including Notre Dame, Alabama, Ohio State, Oregon, Michigan, and USC. During his junior year, Hatton rushed for 1,147 yards and 14 touchdowns on just 121 carries, averaging an impressive 9.5 yards per carry.
Notre Dame’s recruitment efforts have been bolstered by the hiring of Ja’Juan Seider as the new running backs coach. Seider, previously at Penn State, is renowned for his coaching and recruiting prowess. His arrival has sparked interest in prospects like Messiah Mickens from Harrisburg High School in Pennsylvania. Mickens, who was named Pennsylvania’s Player of the Year, had committed to Penn State but may reconsider his options given Seider’s move to Notre Dame.
The Fighting Irish have also extended offers to other top running backs in the 2026 class. This proactive approach in recruiting demonstrates Notre Dame’s commitment to securing elite talent for their future backfield.
As the recruitment process continues, Notre Dame’s strategic efforts and recent coaching additions position them as a formidable contender for top-tier running back prospects like Brian Bonner Jr.
