Notre Dame Football: 3 instant impact signees from 2020 class

Despite a very crowded backfield in South Bend, expect Chris Tyree to see significant playing time this season. He fits the narrative Kelly is trying to change in South Bend as Tyree is fast — there is no other way to put it.

Going back to the idea of Notre Dame’s “DNA”, he’s a running back that can do a lot of different things. He is very reminiscent of Theo Riddick, but a much better natural halfback. Tyree can line up in the slot and run routes, contribute to the screen game either out of the backfield or in the slot and give punch to the kick and punt return game.

Even with Tony Jones Jr. leaving for the green pastures of the National Football League, Tyree enters a backfield that is four runners deep. However, he is talented enough to send one or maybe even two of those backs to the transfer portal. He fits what Kelly wants his running backs to do, and he’s better than a couple of running backs already on the roster.

Keep this in mind when looking at the Fighting Irish running back situation: despite Jafar Armstrong’s injury, C’Bo Flemister, Avery Davis nor Jahmir Smith were able to take carries away from Tony Jones.

It remains to be seen how Brian Kelly, Tommy Rees or the rest of the offensive staff feel about the running back room. If Tyree stays healthy and is as advertised, they will fall for him quickly.