Notre Dame Football: Post-spring 2-deep depth chart projections for 2020
By Jacob Wilson
Running Back
Starting running back: Jafar Armstrong
Backups: Jahmir Smith, C’Bo Flemister
Jafar Armstrong, who was expected to battle now New Orleans Saints running back Tony Jones Jr. for the starting job in 2019, started two of the nine games he played in last season. Expectations have been high for the senior since his impressive camp two years ago, but injuries have derailed his time with the Irish thus far.
If Armstrong can live up to his potential and stay healthy, there’s no question that he deserves the No. 1 spot on this team. However, expect significant push from juniors Jahmir Smith and C’Bo Flemister if Armstrong continues to be sidetracked by injuries.
Jones Jr. recorded nearly 150 carries last season, with no other Irish running back logging more than 50. It’s very possible that those carries level out this season, especially if Armstrong can’t stay on the field. Regardless, the Irish have a decent amount of talent at the position, and it’ll be up to Rees to find the best way to manage it.