Notre Dame football: Irish loaded at RB even if Kyren Williams declares
By Brad Weiss
The Notre Dame football team has a special talent at running back in Kyren Williams, but they would be in good shape if he leaves for the NFL as well.
Over the past two seasons, the Notre Dame football team has had the luxury of having Kyren Williams as their feature running back. A rare blend of size, power, and speed, Williams has racked up a ton of yards for the Irish, posting back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons.
While becoming only the fifth back to accomplish that feat is an incredible accomplishment, Williams means so much more to this program than just his work toting the football. He is an elite leader, outstanding blocker, as well as pass-catcher, things that are going to make him a coveted prospect in next year’s NFL Draft.
The thing with Williams, however, is that he does not have to go to the NFL if he does not want to, as he is only a redshirt sophomore. While he may decide to stay back and enjoy the first year of the Marcus Freeman era, running backs have a short shelf life and based on his talent, he is ready to make the jump.
For most programs that would lead to major issues at the position group but for this Notre Dame football team, they will be fine without him.
Notre Dame football loaded at running back in 2022 and beyond
This season, we saw the emergence of Logan Diggs as a legitimate No. 2 behind Williams, as the true freshman showed flashes of what he could become in South Bend. A fellow true freshman, Audric Estime, also looked outstanding in limited action, as that duo has the ability to be a special tandem for this program in 2022 and beyond.
Also, Chris Tyree will return for his true junior season in 2022, and he has that kind of game-breaking ability that can turn a game on its head in an instant. These three players will be tasked with not only replacing Williams but helping along Tyler Buchner, who will likely be named the starter for the Irish for the 2022 campaign.
Finally, Jadarian Price is slated to join the Irish for the 2022 season, as the four-star recruit from Texas is another explosive player in the backfield. He is one of the top-20 running backs in the country, and like Diggs, should see some action in Year 1, before getting an expanded role down the line.
Williams returning would be the best-case scenario for the Irish, but if he does enter the draft, he has left the position group in excellent shape.