MASSIVE REPORTS: 2025 RB Gifted Sensation Talks Notre Dame Offer, Official Visit Looms

Nolan James was thrilled to receive an offer from Notre Dame.

“It means a lot, obviously,” says the 2025 running back from New Jersey, speaking to Irish Sports Daily. “The reputation of the football program and academics speaks for itself, so it’s really significant to me. It’s the best of both worlds in the country.”

At 5-foot-11 and 200 pounds, James, who plays for DePaul Catholic High School, has been in regular contact with Irish running backs coach Deland McCullough and head coach Marcus Freeman over the past few weeks.

“I’ve been talking to them almost every day,” he shares. “They want me to come in, and Coach McCullough has mentioned that they’re trying to build the best running back room in the country, aiming for me to be a part of that.”

James has a positive impression of both McCullough and Freeman.

“I really like them,” he says. “They seem really genuine. From our phone calls, I can tell they are straightforward, and I really appreciate that.”

Although he has been committed to Boston College for nearly a year, he acknowledges that Notre Dame also offers strong academics and an impressive football program, not to mention his relationship with the coaching staff.

“I see similarities with Notre Dame in terms of academics being top-notch along with the football program and my relationships with the coaches,” he notes.

However, James plans to give Notre Dame serious consideration, including an official visit to South Bend this weekend.

“I’ve never been there, so I want to check it out, meet the coaches in person, and get a general feel for the program and how things operate,” he explains.

His good friend and teammate, Elijah Burress, is already committed to Notre Dame.

“He’s been encouraging me to commit ever since I received the offer,” James laughs, referring to Burress. “He’s one of my best friends, so he’s been hyping it up all week.”

This weekend’s visit will likely be the last major event in James’ recruitment, and he anticipates making a decision soon afterward.

“I don’t want to lead any coaches on, so after my visit, I’d like to make a choice. I don’t want to drag things out.”