Film Don't Lie | Justin Thurman
There’s already a buzz in fall camp about true freshman Jeremiyah Love, a running back from Missouri with elite speed. He’s in the “different” category and has the potential to be a home run hitter out of the backfield for the Irish.
Notre Dame just landed another back who is originally from Missouri with elite speed in 2025 prospect Justin Thurman. With a verified 4.52 40, 31.8 inch vertical, 114 inch broad jump, and a 10.87 100 meter time as a sophomore, he also falls into the “different” category as an athlete.
He had a limited role behind an older running back at Tampa Jesuit last season, but his potential as a playmaker is sky high.
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 181
Projected Position: Running back
ISD Grade: 90 (4-star)
National Average Grade: 89.8 (4-star)
What he does best:
We do see that speed translate to the field. He can create explosive plays and run away from defenders even when they have a pursuit angle. This shouldn’t be a house call. It turns into one because Thurman can hit the turbo button and go.
There isn’t a ton of it on film yet, but you can see how he can present matchup problems with linebackers. Get him in a one on one in the passing game with him and not many are going to be able to turn and run with him.
With some players, speed is built up. With Thurman, he shows the ability to put his foot in the ground and accelerate up the field in a hurry.
What he needs to improve:
He frankly just needs more reps so he can develop his skills as a runner. Joquez Smith was a senior on his team who started in front of him and he was the lead back (he signed with Temple).
With Smith gone, Thurman will get plenty of opportunities to be the guy and improve in every capacity.
What’s his ceiling?
This is one of those takes where you are projecting the player way more on what he will be based on his potential than what they’ve seen on film. He worked out for Notre Dame at camp this summer so obviously he answered all of their questions about his skills in person.
He’s already a blue-chip prospect with limited reps as a sophomore and he could be a big riser with more opportunities. Thurman can become a big play back at the college level and it’s going to be exciting to see everything he can accomplish with his explosive athletic traits.
The type of player I think he could be is former Miami running back Travis Homer. He had 16 runs of 30-yards or more in his last two seasons at Miami before being drafted by the Seattle Seahawks.
Who he could be:
Former Miami running back Travis Homer
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