In a stunning turn of events, 4-star running back Javian Osborne has announced his commitment to Notre Dame, leaving fans and analysts alike shocked by his decision to choose the Fighting I

 

Hirish over the University of Michigan. This move marks a significant development in the ongoing recruiting battle between two of college football’s powerhouses, adding another major victory for Notre Dame as they continue to solidify their standing among elite programs.

Osborne, a highly touted recruit out of Atlanta, Georgia, has been a coveted prospect for programs across the country. The 6-foot-1, 210-pound running back is known for his combination of speed, power, and agility. He’s the type of player that can dominate both in between the tackles and on the outside, making him a versatile weapon for any offense. His commitment to Notre Dame is not just a win for the Irish but a huge setback for Michigan, who had long been seen as the frontrunner in his recruitment.

For months, the battle between Notre Dame and Michigan had seemed to be a two-horse race for the dynamic running back. Both programs had made strong pitches, and Osborne had developed strong relationships with both coaching staffs. Michigan, with its rich football tradition and strong ties to running back development, appeared to have the edge. But in the end, it was Notre Dame that managed to win Osborne’s heart.

So, what led to Osborne’s surprising decision? There were several factors that ultimately swayed the talented running back toward Notre Dame. One of the primary reasons cited by Osborne was the strong relationship he built with Irish offensive coordinator and running backs coach, Deland McCullough. McCullough, who has a proven track record of developing successful running backs at both the college and professional levels, played a pivotal role in Osborne’s recruitment.

The allure of playing in Notre Dame’s high-profile offense, paired with their commitment to developing players at the highest level, also made a significant impact. Notre Dame’s history of producing successful running backs, including recent stars like Kyren Williams, was an attractive factor for Osborne, who wants to make an impact at the next level.

Additionally, the Fighting Irish’s tradition of academic excellence and the opportunity to play in big-time games against top-tier competition was an appealing aspect of the program. Osborne is known for his commitment to excelling both on and off the field, and Notre Dame’s prestigious academic offerings were a key selling point in his decision-making process.

On the other hand, Michigan, despite its strong pitch, could not overcome some of the concerns Osborne had about their current offensive scheme and personnel. Although the Wolverines are coming off a College Football Playoff appearance, there were doubts about how the team would utilize him within their system. Osborne ultimately felt that Notre Dame offered a better fit for his playing style and aspirations.

This commitment also signals a larger trend for Notre Dame, who has been making significant strides on the recruiting trail in recent years. Head coach Marcus Freeman, who is entering his second season at the helm, has quickly established himself as one of the top recruiters in the country. His ability to land a player of Osborne’s caliber only strengthens the perception that the Irish are on the rise and ready to compete at the highest level.

For Michigan, this loss stings, especially after the months of effort spent trying to secure Osborne’s commitment. However, Wolverines fans can take solace in the fact that their program remains one of the premier destinations for top-tier talent, and there is still a great deal of excitement surrounding the team heading into the 2025 season.

As for Osborne, his commitment to Notre Dame is a major boost for the Fighting Irish, who now have one of the nation’s best running backs in their 2025 recruiting class. His decision will undoubtedly have ripple effects across the college football recruiting landscape, and it will be exciting to see how this commitment impacts Notre Dame’s future on the field.