Notre Dame’s backfield battle heats up as freshman Jonaz Walton pushes for bigger role

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Notre Dame’s running back competition is getting crowded, and true freshman Jonaz Walton is making a serious case for the top spot.

Aneyas Williams opened the season as the lead back. Nolan James Jr. delivered a breakout performance against Michigan State. But against North Carolina, it was Walton who stole the spotlight.

The freshman recorded 23 carries in Chapel Hill, more than Williams and James combined, despite remaining behind both on Notre Dame’s depth chart.

“That confidence, it was getting higher and higher every time I got to touch the ball,” Walton said. “I felt really comfortable.”

But winning the starting job takes more than explosive runs.

Pass protection remains a key factor, with Williams and James holding the edge in experience. Offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock isn’t ready to commit to one back just yet.

“I think there’s gotta be a little bit of a healthy balance between all three of those guys,” Denbrock said, adding that Walton has firmly entered the conversation.

The competition extends to the offensive line, where Matty Augustine continues working his way back from foot surgery after competing for the starting right guard position during fall camp.

Head coach Marcus Freeman emphasized that Augustine’s development, not the depth chart, remains the priority.

“We will determine what that means for Saturdays though,” Freeman said.

With multiple options emerging in the backfield and along the offensive line, Notre Dame’s biggest challenge isn’t finding talent. It’s figuring out the right combination and who deserves the ball when the game is on the line.