Jonaz Walton Commits to Notre Dame, Declines Tennessee Offer
KNOXVILLE, Tenn – Four-star running back Jonaz Walton from Carrollton, Georgia, has officially committed to Notre Dame’s 2026 recruiting class, choosing the Fighting Irish over several top programs, including the Tennessee Volunteers. Walton’s decision was announced on May 14, 2025, during a live broadcast from Central High School. Following his commitment, Walton canceled all remaining official visits, including those to Tennessee, Alabama, and Florida, signaling a firm commitment to Notre Dame.
Walton, ranked as the No. 7 running back and No. 192 overall prospect in the 2026 class by Rivals, has been a standout performer at Central High School. He has rushed for over 1,300 yards in each of the past three seasons, totaling 3,327 yards and 42 touchdowns in his first two years, and adding 1,387 yards and 14 touchdowns as a junior. His speed is notable, with a personal best of 10.64 seconds in the 100-meter dash.
Tennessee had been a strong contender for Walton’s commitment, with the running back scheduling an official visit to Knoxville. However, after his decision to join Notre Dame, Walton took to social media to announce the cancellation of all remaining visits, stating, “Following my commitment. I will no longer be taking official visits to Alabama, Tennessee, and Florida.”
Notre Dame’s 2026 recruiting class, bolstered by Walton’s commitment, now ranks No. 2 nationally, just behind USC. Walton joins fellow running back Javian Osborne, making them the first pair of Rivals250 running backs to commit to Notre Dame in the same class since 2013.
For Tennessee, Walton’s decision is a setback in their 2026 recruiting efforts. The Volunteers currently have seven commits in the class, including five-star quarterback Faizon Brandon, and are ranked 27th nationally. The coaching staff will now need to refocus their recruiting strategy to fill the void left by Walton’s decision.
Walton’s commitment to Notre Dame underscores the program’s strong recruiting momentum and its appeal to top-tier talent nationwide. His addition is expected to significantly enhance the Fighting Irish’s offensive capabilities in the coming years.