This past weekend marked the largest recruiting event of the year for Notre Dame, welcoming top high school prospects from across the nation. The recruiting weekend has already shown positive results, with Marcus Freeman and the Notre Dame staff securing two commitments, including running back Nolan James Jr., a 5-foot-10, 205-pound player from Wayne (N.J.) DePaul Catholic.
James, who plays alongside current Irish wide receiver commit Elijah Burress, attended Notre Dame’s game against Florida State last Saturday, where the team’s impressive 52-3 win reinforced his choice to join the program. After receiving an offer from Notre Dame, the former Boston College commit quickly organized a visit to South Bend. He found the atmosphere, the culture of the program, and the educational opportunities to be compelling factors in his decision.
“Ultimately, what led to my commitment was the fact that Notre Dame provides one of the best educations in the world, along with the opportunity to play for a national championship,” James told Irish Breakdown. The values of hard work, mental toughness, and high standards resonated with him and his family, as they observed these principles strongly emphasized within the Notre Dame program.
“Everyone in the building shared the same mindset and message,” he noted. “To excel in everything both on and off the field and to embrace the challenges that accompany this pursuit.” One aspect of Notre Dame’s culture that particularly impressed James was the Irish principle of “choosing hard.” While he expected the commitment to excellence, the program’s mindset left a significant impact on him.
“Not that it shocked me, but I was still very impressed by everyone’s dedication to excellence and the idea of choosing hard,” he said.
During his visit, James spent quality time with Burress and developed a connection with fellow Irish commit Jerome Bettis Jr., enhancing his positive experience in South Bend.
On Sunday night, he informed the coaching staff of his decision, and they were excited to welcome him to the team. “I told Coach (Deland) McCullough and Chad (Bowden) when they asked if I wanted to be part of what they were building, and they were super hyped,” James shared.
This moment was unforgettable for James and his family, representing a new chapter in his football career. The following morning, he conveyed the news to Marcus Freeman, who was also thrilled about the addition of his new running back.
James plans to enroll early in January and is eager to get to work. “My goal is to simply put my head down, work hard, and earn a role, whatever that may be,” he stated.
James is recognized as a consensus three-star prospect by On3 Industry Rankings, with offers from Notre Dame, Boston College, Syracuse, Duke, Virginia, Minnesota, and Connecticut.
