Jonaz Walton, the explosive running back out of Carrollton, Georgia, has officially committed to the University of Notre Dame, choosing the Fighting Irish over a final list that included perennial powerhouses Alabama, Stanford, and Florida. It’s a massive win for Notre Dame’s 2025 recruiting class and a clear signal that Marcus Freeman and his staff continue to elevate the Irish brand on the recruiting trail, especially in the talent-rich Southeast.
Walton’s commitment represents more than just another blue-chip talent headed to South Bend. It’s a statement of intent. The 5-foot-11, 200-pound running back has long been on the radar of top programs across the country thanks to his rare blend of burst, balance, and vision. He combines SEC-caliber physicality with the kind of shiftiness that makes defenders miss in space, and his ability to run between the tackles while also being a home-run threat every time he touches the ball makes him one of the most complete backs in the 2025 cycle.
For Notre Dame, landing a player of Walton’s caliber over Alabama — a program with a well-earned reputation for producing elite NFL running backs — cannot be overstated. It signals the kind of battles Freeman’s staff is willing to fight, and win, as they continue building a team capable of contending for national championships. Walton’s decision to join the Irish also comes at a time when the running back room in South Bend is evolving, with the coaching staff seeking versatile and durable backs who can handle a high volume of carries while contributing in the passing game. Walton fits that mold perfectly.
The Georgia native’s rise in the recruiting world has been steady but decisive. Playing in one of the most competitive regions in the country, he has carved out a reputation as a relentless workhorse who plays with an edge. He’s often the best player on the field, and yet he plays with the hunger of someone trying to prove himself every down. That mentality will translate well at Notre Dame, where culture and character are just as important as athleticism and stats. Walton checks every box. He’s an elite athlete, yes, but he’s also a disciplined student, a leader in his community, and a competitor who thrives under pressure.
There were stretches during his recruitment when Alabama looked like the team to beat. The Crimson Tide offered early and maintained steady contact. Stanford offered the academic prestige that few programs can match, and Florida — with its renewed focus on physicality and speed under Billy Napier — made a late surge to try to flip the narrative. But in the end, Walton’s decision came down to trust, development, and belief in Notre Dame’s vision for the future. According to sources close to the recruitment, running backs coach Deland McCullough played a significant role in sealing the deal, consistently building a relationship with Walton and his family that felt genuine and long-lasting.
McCullough, known for his NFL experience and his proven ability to develop top-tier talent, made it clear to Walton that he was a priority from day one. The transparency, attention to detail, and overall professionalism of Notre Dame’s approach resonated. The staff didn’t make hollow promises; they provided a clear, structured plan that showed exactly how Walton would fit into the Irish offense and what kind of role he could have as early as his freshman year.
Another major factor in Walton’s decision was the culture at Notre Dame — one built on accountability, tradition, and the pursuit of greatness on and off the field. For a player who values academics and long-term development, Notre Dame offered a blend of elite football and world-class education that few programs can match. Walton’s family reportedly emphasized the importance of finding a school that could set him up for life after football, and the Irish delivered in that regard.
From a schematic perspective, Walton should thrive in Notre Dame’s offensive system. He’s the type of back who can operate in both spread and pro-style looks, and he’s just as dangerous catching the ball out of the backfield as he is running behind pulling guards. He possesses a rare combination of power and finesse, able to bounce outside and beat linebackers to the edge, or lower his pads and run through contact when the situation demands it. His vision and patience allow blocks to develop, and his acceleration ensures he takes advantage of the smallest crease.
At Carrollton High School, Walton has consistently posted video game numbers, racking up yardage against some of Georgia’s top programs. His highlight tape is a showcase of elusiveness and raw strength, full of cutbacks, broken tackles, and long touchdown runs. He’s the kind of player who forces defenses to account for him at all times, and his presence often opens up opportunities for his teammates. Beyond the numbers, however, what stands out most is his motor. He plays with relentless energy, rarely takes plays off, and brings an edge that is contagious.
His work ethic also deserves mention. Coaches rave about his approach to the weight room, film sessions, and practice habits. He’s a student of the game who prides himself on being coachable and improving each day. That attitude will serve him well at the next level, particularly at a place like Notre Dame where competition is fierce and expectations are sky high.
Walton’s commitment also has ripple effects beyond his position group. In the world of college football recruiting, elite players often want to play with other elite players, and momentum can build quickly once a top talent is on board. Walton could serve as a foundational piece in helping Notre Dame land other offensive skill players who want to join a dynamic, balanced attack. His presence in the class sends a message to other recruits that South Bend is a destination where they can thrive, both as athletes and as individuals.
The fit between Walton and Notre Dame isn’t just a good one — it’s ideal. It’s about more than Xs and Os. It’s about culture, alignment of goals, and a shared belief in the power of hard work and character. In today’s era of NIL deals, transfer portal chaos, and shifting priorities, Walton’s decision feels refreshingly grounded. He chose a program that values him for who he is, not just what he can do on the field. That speaks volumes.
Looking ahead, Notre Dame fans have every reason to be excited about Walton’s future in the blue and gold. He has the potential to be a game-changer, someone who contributes early and becomes a staple of the Irish offense for years to come. More importantly, he embodies the qualities that make Notre Dame special — toughness, humility, purpose, and the drive to be great in everything he does.
In an increasingly competitive recruiting landscape, where programs fight tooth and nail for elite talent, landing Jonaz Walton is not just a win for Notre Dame — it’s a major victory for what Marcus Freeman is building. It reaffirms that the Irish can go toe-to-toe with anyone in the country and come out on top. It confirms that South Bend remains one of the most compelling destinations in college football.
For Jonaz Walton, the journey is just beginning. But his decision to commit to Notre Dame marks the start of something special. He’s not just joining a team — he’s joining a legacy. And if his past is any indication, the best is yet to come.