Scout’s view: Notre Dame’s newest commitment, 2025 running back Justin Thurman

Notre Dame scored a huge recruiting win for the 2025 class on Tuesday when Florida running back Justin Thurman announced his commitment to the Irish.

Thurman stands 5-foot, 11-inches and weighs 185 pounds and is ranked as the 27th best running back and 281st overall prospect according to the 247Sports composite. He visited South Bend over this past weekend and the Irish coaching staff obviously did a great job.

He is the first commit of the class at his position, and after watching his sophomore film, it’s easy to see why Notre Dame wanted him. Find out what I saw in Thurman after watching his tape below.

Speed

Scout’s view

Thurman has plenty of speed to take it to the house anytime he touches the ball. More often than not, defenders are trying to chase him down from behind. Thurman has the type of speed that many schools look for in their backs.

Breaking tackles

Scout’s view

Although Thurman isn’t a big back, he plays like one. His game is much more similar to a larger, bruising runner, so that makes him very difficult to tackle. Thurman runs through arm tackles very easily and already has enough strength in his upper-body to resemble a college player.

Downhill runner

Scout’s view

Thurman has the speed, but what’s interesting about his game is that he always seems to fall forward. He’s not extremely shifty, but there’s enough wiggle in his game for him to be able to get to a corner and make big plays.

Special teams

Scout’s view

I’m a big fan of players who aren’t afraid to play special teams. It tells me they are always putting the team first and want to win. Thurman returns kicks and covers kickoffs as a gunner. This is an easy way for a young player to get on the field early.

Overview

Scout’s view

Thurman is a solid player, who should have a good career for the Irish. The question is when will that career begin? If I had to guess, he will redshirt during his first season and play special teams while getting some carries here and there as a change of pace back.

It going to be hard for him to crack the starting lineup until later in his career due to the depth in front of him. I still expect that Thurman should have a good Notre Dame career.

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Story originally appeared on Fighting Irish Wire