Oregon Ducks, Notre Dame, Alabama Finalists for 4-Star Running Back Recruit Jonaz Walton
The recruitment process for high school football players is always a thrilling and competitive endeavor, and the 2025 class is no exception. One of the most highly sought-after recruits this year is Jonaz Walton, a 4-star running back from the state of Texas, who has captured the attention of some of the top football programs in the country. Walton, known for his explosive speed, vision, and overall playmaking ability, has narrowed down his list to three powerhouse programs: the Oregon Ducks, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and Alabama Crimson Tide.
As one of the top running back prospects of the 2025 recruiting cycle, Walton has been widely regarded as one of the most dynamic athletes in the country. His decision will not only impact his future but also the future of the programs vying for his services. This article will take a closer look at each of the finalist programs, what Walton brings to the table, and what his commitment could mean for college football recruiting.
Who is Jonaz Walton?
Jonaz Walton hails from the Dallas-Fort Worth area, where he has established himself as a premier talent in the 2025 class. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 210 pounds, Walton possesses a unique blend of size, strength, and athleticism that makes him a versatile back capable of handling every aspect of the game. He has a rare combination of power and speed, which allows him to be effective both as a between-the-tackles runner and as a threat out of the backfield in the passing game.
Walton’s high school tape showcases his ability to break through tackles and gain significant yards after contact. His vision and patience in reading blocks are also advanced for his age, and his speed makes him a dangerous threat once he finds an opening. Whether it’s hitting the hole quickly or breaking off long runs to the outside, Walton’s big-play ability is undeniable. His agility, coupled with his quickness, makes him a potential game-changer at the collegiate level.
Throughout his high school career, Walton has garnered numerous accolades and earned recognition as one of the top running backs in the country. He has racked up impressive yardage totals and touchdown counts, and his versatility as a runner and receiver has made him an extremely appealing prospect for major college programs.
The Finalists: Oregon, Notre Dame, and Alabama
After months of speculation and official visits, Walton has narrowed his list of schools down to three finalists: the Oregon Ducks, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and Alabama Crimson Tide. These three programs represent some of the most prestigious football traditions in the country, and each has a unique pitch for why Walton should consider signing with them.
Oregon Ducks: Fast-Paced Offense and Elite Development
The Oregon Ducks, under head coach Dan Lanning, have been known for their fast-paced, high-scoring offense, a system that could benefit a dynamic talent like Walton. The Ducks have established themselves as a top-tier program in the Pac-12 and have consistently been a contender on the national stage. Oregon’s offense is built around speed and space, which would give Walton ample opportunities to showcase his explosive playmaking ability.
One of the biggest selling points for Walton in considering Oregon is the program’s emphasis on developing athletes for the next level. Oregon has produced a steady stream of NFL-caliber talent, particularly at the running back position. The Ducks’ ability to develop running backs and utilize them in a way that showcases their strengths could be an enticing draw for Walton, who is looking to continue his development and eventually play at the next level.
Additionally, Oregon’s unique culture, which blends football with a strong focus on innovation and technology, could be a big factor for Walton. The Ducks’ facilities are top-notch, and the team’s proximity to the Pacific Northwest’s thriving sports culture could also be a significant draw.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish: Tradition, Stability, and Academic Excellence
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish, one of the most storied programs in college football history, are also firmly in the running for Walton’s commitment. Under head coach Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame has returned to national prominence, and the team’s consistent success, both on the field and in the classroom, has made it an attractive option for top recruits.
For Walton, Notre Dame’s tradition of success and its focus on player development could be appealing. The program has a history of producing top-tier running backs, such as Jerome Bettis and C.J. Prosise, and has sent numerous players to the NFL over the years. The Fighting Irish’s pro-style offense, combined with a strong offensive line and a commitment to establishing the run game, would provide Walton with the opportunity to contribute immediately.
In addition to football, Notre Dame’s academic prestige is often a major selling point for recruits. Known for its rigorous academics, the Fighting Irish offer student-athletes the chance to excel not only on the field but also in the classroom. For Walton, the balance between athletics and academics could be an important factor, especially as he looks to prepare for life after football.
Alabama Crimson Tide: Championship Pedigree and Elite Coaching
When it comes to winning football programs, it’s hard to top Alabama. The Crimson Tide, led by legendary head coach Nick Saban, have established themselves as a perennial powerhouse in college football. With a legacy of national championships and a reputation for developing NFL-ready talent, Alabama is always a prime destination for top recruits.
For Walton, Alabama’s pedigree and track record of producing elite running backs are likely major factors in his decision-making process. The Crimson Tide have produced some of the best running backs in recent years, including Derrick Henry, Josh Jacobs, and Najee Harris. The program’s ability to develop top-tier talent in all facets of the game, particularly at running back, makes them a strong contender in Walton’s recruitment.
Beyond the on-field success, Alabama offers Walton the opportunity to compete for national championships year in and year out. With a robust offensive line and a powerful run game, Walton would have the chance to showcase his skills in one of the most dominant programs in the country. Moreover, playing under Coach Saban, one of the most respected coaches in the history of college football, would provide Walton with the opportunity to grow both as a player and as a leader.
What Jonaz Walton Brings to the Table
Walton’s decision will have significant implications for whichever program he chooses. His ability to impact the game as a three-down back will provide an immediate boost to any offense. His vision, combined with his speed and strength, makes him a threat in both the running and passing game, which is becoming increasingly important in today’s college football landscape.
Whether it’s breaking tackles, catching passes out of the backfield, or scoring long touchdowns, Walton has the tools to make an immediate impact. His size and speed allow him to excel in short-yardage situations while also providing the explosiveness needed to break off long runs. His ability to contribute in both the rushing and receiving game gives coaches a versatile weapon to work with, something that all three of his finalists value highly.
Beyond his physical abilities, Walton has demonstrated the leadership qualities necessary to make a difference on a team. He’s been a leader at his high school, and his understanding of the game, along with his ability to adapt to different offensive systems, will make him an asset at the collegiate level.