Notre Dame made a major statement on the recruiting trail when it landed Javian Osborne, one of the nation’s most electric offensive players. The standout from Forney (Texas) High School picked Notre Dame over Michigan and an impressive list of suitors.
Osborne, who checks in at 5-10 and 190 pounds, is widely considered one of the top running backs in the 2026 class, earning a 5.0-star upside grade on the Irish Breakdown board.
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This is the first major recruiting win for new running backs coach Ja’Juan Seider, and it’s a big one. Seider, who arrived with a strong reputation, wasted no time making a splash by going into Texas and pulling one of the state’s best players. It’s also a statement by Marcus Freeman and the rest of the Irish staff that they aren’t just going to recruit nationally—they’re going to win nationally.
That message wasn’t lost on Osborne, who made his expectations crystal clear, as was the primary reason he picked Notre Dame.
“Can’t wait to bring this [national championship] back to South Bend!” Osborne told Irish Breakdown before getting into the reason he picked the Irish. “Coach Freeman. He is the realest I’ve ever been around, and he knows how to lead young men and give them hope in their lives—something to live for.”
Osborne has built great relationships with a lot of the Notre Dame staff, but its clear Seider made a big impact on this recruitment.
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“Great! Love him,” Osborne stated. “One of the best, if not the best running backs coach in college football right now. Outstanding.”
Notre Dame didn’t just win a recruiting battle—they brought in a leader and a culture fit. Osborne is not only an elite athlete, but also the kind of young man who will thrive at Notre Dame. His commitment to making an impact off the field is just as strong as his goals between the lines.
“Something I want the Irish fans to know about me is that I will give my all for Notre Dame Today,” he said. “What does that mean? It means that on and off the field you’re getting the full package—as a ball player and as a Notre Dame man. I will have a positive impact in the community.”
As for his upcoming senior season? Osborne has big plans.
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“My goal for this upcoming season is to rush for over 2,500 yards and 50-plus total touchdowns—at minimum 45 rushing. I think it’s a statement year for me! I gotta go out there and prove that I am who I am! I am one of none!”
That confidence, that edge—it’s exactly the kind of energy Notre Dame wants in its locker room. It’s clear that Notre Dame is building a roster that will be able to compete for championships year after year.
Notre Dame just added a difference maker—and he already has his eyes on a national title.
Osborne brings a unique blend of speed, vision and physicality to the backfield. When you turn on the tape the traits pop: he sees the field with patience and burst, hits the hole with authority, and uses a quick jump cut to make defenders miss in tight spaces. But he’s not just slippery—he’s tough. Osborne finishes runs, breaks tackles, and has the speed to break off chunk plays and take it the distance. He also flashes reliable hands as a receiver, making him a true every-down threat.
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