In a monumental win on the recruiting trail, the University of Notre Dame has secured a commitment from four-star running back Javian Osborne, a dynamic, high-upside prospect out of Texas who had narrowed his finalists to Notre Dame and Michigan. Osborne’s announcement comes as a major coup for head coach Marcus Freeman, who continues to make noise in the Lone Star State, and reinforces Notre Dame’s offensive identity heading into the next chapter of its College Football Playoff aspirations.
With Osborne now officially Irish, the Fighting Irish land one of the most complete backs in the 2025 class—an explosive playmaker with next-level instincts, elite balance, and high football IQ. Ranked as a Top 10 RB nationally and a Top 150 overall player, Osborne is widely considered a future every-down back who could contribute from day one.
Let’s take a deep dive into what this commitment means for Notre Dame, why Osborne chose South Bend, and how his decision impacts the national recruiting landscape.
The Recruitment: Notre Dame vs. Michigan in a Classic Battle
The race for Javian Osborne was fierce. At 6-foot, 200 pounds, Osborne received offers from more than 30 Power Five programs, including Alabama, Texas, Oregon, Penn State, and Oklahoma. But as his recruitment neared its final stretch, it became a two-horse race between Notre Dame and Michigan.
Michigan made a compelling case. Osborne visited Ann Arbor twice in the past six months and built strong ties with running backs coach Mike Hart and head coach Sherrone Moore. He praised Michigan’s use of physical backs and its ability to develop NFL talent, especially under the Jim Harbaugh regime. But ultimately, the Wolverines fell short in an emotional tug-of-war.
Notre Dame’s consistency, vision for Osborne’s future, and family atmosphere sealed the deal. Osborne visited South Bend in early April and again on May 3rd—the weekend that ultimately locked in his commitment. According to sources close to the family, Freeman’s genuine approach and offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock’s scheme were decisive factors.
“Notre Dame felt like home,” Osborne said in a statement. “Coach Freeman believes in me—not just as a football player, but as a young man. That made the difference. I want to be part of something bigger, and I believe we’re going to win big at Notre Dame.”
Scouting Breakdown: What Makes Osborne Special?
Osborne is a rare blend of vision, strength, and speed. He’s been the workhorse back at North Shore High School in Houston, one of the premier programs in the state of Texas. In 2024, Osborne rushed for 1,722 yards and 24 touchdowns, averaging an impressive 7.6 yards per carry, while also adding 21 receptions for 312 yards and 3 receiving TDs.
Here’s what stands out on tape:
- Acceleration and Burst: Osborne hits the hole with lightning quickness. He’s a one-cut back with breakaway speed, consistently pulling away from defenders at the second level.
- Vision and Patience: He understands blocking schemes and anticipates running lanes. His decision-making is advanced for a high school back.
- Power and Contact Balance: Osborne is difficult to bring down. He routinely bounces off tackles and runs with low pad level, making him lethal in short-yardage and red-zone situations.
- Pass-Catching Ability: As a true dual-threat back, Osborne can line up in the slot or motion out of the backfield, which will allow Notre Dame to open up the playbook.
- Leadership: Coaches rave about his maturity, focus, and ability to inspire teammates.
Recruiting experts liken his game to a blend of Dalvin Cook and Josh Jacobs, and some believe he has the potential to crack the rotation as early as his freshman year if he continues to develop.
Fit in Notre Dame’s Offense
With Mike Denbrock back in South Bend as offensive coordinator, the Irish offense is shifting toward a balanced attack that maximizes versatility in the backfield. Osborne is a perfect fit.
Notre Dame’s current running back room is solid, headlined by Jadarian Price, Jeremiyah Love, and Aneyas Williams, but none have quite the combination of power and shiftiness that Osborne brings to the table. His ability to line up in multiple formations gives Denbrock the flexibility to run power, stretch zone, and screen packages that confuse defenses.
Expect Osborne to make an early impact on special teams and work into a complementary role by mid-2026, with a path to become the feature back by 2027.
Marcus Freeman’s Texas Pipeline
Landing Osborne reinforces Marcus Freeman’s success in expanding Notre Dame’s recruiting footprint. Texas has always been fertile ground, but Freeman and his staff have made it a focal point over the last two cycles. Osborne is the third blue-chip prospect from Texas to commit to Notre Dame in the 2025 class, following defensive back Kareem Mitchell (4-star) and offensive tackle Derrick Sanders (4-star).
This renewed presence in Texas sends a clear message: Notre Dame isn’t just trying to compete with SEC schools for top talent—they’re succeeding.
The Irish staff has made a concerted effort to build relationships with Texas high school coaches, and Osborne’s commitment is a direct result of that investment.
Reaction from National Analysts
Recruiting experts across the country have lauded the Irish for landing Osborne:
- Steve Wiltfong (247Sports): “Notre Dame gets a true game-changer. Osborne can elevate this offense the moment he steps on campus.”
- Tom Luginbill (ESPN Recruiting): “This is a blow to Michigan and a major win for Freeman. Osborne is one of the most well-rounded backs in the class.”
- Rivals National Recruiting Director Adam Gorney: “Notre Dame has now put together one of the best skill-position groups in the country.”
With Osborne on board, Notre Dame jumps up two spots to No. 6 nationally in the 2025 team recruiting rankings, according to 247Sports Composite.
The Impact on Michigan and the Recruiting Dominoes
For Michigan, losing Osborne is a significant blow. The Wolverines had prioritized him as their top offensive target in this cycle and believed they were trending in the right direction following a strong spring visit. His decision leaves Michigan scrambling for a Plan B at running back, though they remain in the mix for four-star AJ Bowen out of Georgia and Jelani Castle from Florida.
Notre Dame’s gain could also impact the decisions of other recruits. Osborne is a known leader among his peers and is expected to help peer-recruit other high-profile offensive players, including five-star wide receiver Kendall James and four-star offensive guard Isaiah Flood, both of whom are trending toward Notre Dame following Osborne’s announcement.
What’s Next for Notre Dame?
With Osborne locked in, Notre Dame turns its attention to rounding out its offensive class. They are still chasing a second running back to complement Osborne—possibly a lightning-fast scatback or speedster—and are focusing on top-tier WRs and linemen.
Here are a few targets to watch:
- WR Kendall James (5-star, CA) – Osborne and James are close. A visit to South Bend is expected this summer.
- OG Isaiah Flood (4-star, TX) – Another Texas recruit whom Osborne could sway.
- RB Caleb Dumas (3-star, GA) – A change-of-pace option with elite top-end speed.
With Freeman and his staff pushing the envelope in recruiting and Osborne now in the fold, Notre Dame’s 2025 class is shaping up as one of its best in the last decade.
Final Thoughts: A Culture-Defining Win
Landing Javian Osborne isn’t just about filling a position of need—it’s about culture, momentum, and national credibility. It’s about Marcus Freeman proving that he can go head-to-head with bluebloods like Michigan, Alabama, and Texas and walk away with the signature of a future All-American.
This commitment shows that Notre Dame is serious about winning at the highest level—and doing it with elite players who fit the program’s values on and off the field.
In Osborne, the Irish get more than just a great football player. They get a competitor. A leader. A future captain.