Notre Dame Faces Running Back Challenge After NFL Draft Losses

Notre Dame is preparing for the 2026 season as a strong contender for the national championship, returning 72% of last year's production from a 10-win team. However, the team faces a significant challenge with the departure of top running backs Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price, both of whom were first-round NFL Draft picks.

Love and Price contributed a combined 2,046 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns, while the team overall recorded 2,441 rushing yards and 38 touchdowns. With their exit, Notre Dame's running back depth is now largely reliant on Aneyas Williams, who averaged 18.7 yards per game last season and scored five touchdowns, but has limited experience.

Notre Dame opted not to recruit a running back from the transfer portal, focusing instead on strengthening other positions. The team did secure four-star recruits Jonaz Walton and Javian Osborne for the Class of 2026, but the coaching staff will likely rely on Williams to step up in the absence of Love and Price. Williams has shown promise with 58 career carries for 443 yards and seven touchdowns, but expectations may need to be tempered as he takes on this crucial role.