Notre Dame Makes A Big Move With Elite Running Back Javian Osborne

For much of the 2026 recruiting cycle, Notre Dame seemed to be on the outside looking in for elite running back Javian Osborne. The Forney (Texas) High School native has long been considered one of the top backs in the class, and every major college football program is fighting to land him. Until recently, Notre Dame wasn’t at the forefront of that battle, but that changed during his recent visit to campus.

After an eye-opening visit to South Bend, the narrative has shifted dramatically. Osborne didn’t just leave impressed, he left with Notre Dame firmly in the conversation as his potential landing spot.

Visit Changed Everything

Osborne arrived at Notre Dame with curiosity, but he left with a whole new outlook on the Irish program. From the moment he stepped on campus, the combination of history, culture, and opportunity made a major impression.

"Man, it’s different, I love it," Osborne told Irish Breakdown. "Definitely see myself going here!”

That’s exactly the reaction Notre Dame’s staff was hoping for. The Irish have been working to close the gap in his recruitment, and this visit was a major step toward making that happen.

Notre Dame Stands Out

While some players focus on facilities or NIL opportunities, Osborne was drawn in by the campus, the people, and the overall environment at Notre Dame.

"The place, the place, the place,” Osborne emphasized. “Second, the people and coaching staff. I think there is a huge amount of opportunity here at the University of Notre Dame.”

Notre Dame’s tradition speaks for itself, but it’s the relationships that are making the difference in Osborne’s recruitment.

Notre Dame’s Standing

Before the visit, Notre Dame was trailing in Osborne’s recruitment. That may no longer be the case. When asked if the visit changed things, Osborne didn’t hesitate.

“After visiting the campus and meeting with Coach (Mike) Denbrock and Coach (Ja'Juan) Seider, it’s fairly possible that Notre Dame could be No. 1, but they are definitely at the top of my list.”

That’s a massive shift for a player who had previously been leaning toward other programs.

Coach Seider Made A Strong Impression

One of the biggest question marks in Osborne’s recruitment was how he’d feel about new Notre Dame running backs coach Ja’Juan Seider. The Texas standout had a strong relationship with former coach Deland McCullough, so the transition was a critical moment in Notre Dame’s pursuit of Osborne.

Fortunately for the Irish, Seider is making all the right moves.

“Coach Seider is definitely that guy,” Osborne said.

Seider’s ability to connect with players has already started paying dividends, and Osborne’s reaction to the visit only reinforces that.

What’s Next for Notre Dame and Osborne?

While nothing is set in stone yet, Notre Dame has positioned itself as a legitimate contender for one of the best running backs in the 2026 class.

Osborne has now locked in his official visit to Notre Dame for June 13th, giving the Irish another chance to make their final pitch. If this visit was any indication, they’ll be tough to beat moving forward.

Whether or not Notre Dame ultimately lands Osborne, one thing is clear—the Irish are proving they can go toe-to-toe with the biggest programs in the country for elite talent.

And if things keep trending in this direction, don’t be surprised if Osborne is wearing the gold helmet sooner rather than later.