BREAKING | 2022 Four-Star RB Gi'Bran Payne Commits to Notre Dame
Notre Dame has added another piece to the 2022 recruiting class as La Salle (Ohio) running back Gi’Bran Payne has committed to the Fighting Irish following his official visit over the weekend.
The four-star prospect signed with Indiana in December, but in early March, Payne was released from his letter of intent.
“As a person and athlete, I thrive and prosper off of communication and genuine relationships,” wrote Payne in a statement in March. “With that said, I am looking to explore my options to ensure I am making the best decision for me and my future. I am grateful and appreciate all the consideration and opportunities that were given by the staff and coaches at Indiana University. With that being said, I am now reopening my recruitment.”
Payne immediately became a target for Notre Dame as running backs coach Deland McCullough recruited the 5-foot-10, 190-pounder to Indiana prior to joining the Irish staff.
The Ohio native earned several big-time offers following a sophomore season where he ran for 790 yards and nine touchdowns to go with eight receptions for 141 yards and three scores. Payne played in just over five games as a senior and rushed for 274 yards and three touchdowns while grabbing 12 receptions for 177 yards. As a junior, Payne ran for 235 yards and five touchdowns with nine catches for 181 yards and three scores.
Notre Dame had wanted to take two running backs in 2022, so the move makes sense as Payne will provide more depth and another playmaker if he can get past the injury bug. The Irish have four scholarship backs on campus in Chris Tyree, Logan Diggs, Audric Estime and Jadarian Price and all have turned heads this spring.
Film Don’t Lie | Gi’Bran Payne
Ranking
ISD: 91 (four-star)
247: 90 (four-star)
Rivals: 5.8 (four-star)
ESPN: 81 (four-star)
Composite: 90.36 (four-star)
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