Marcus Freeman and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish are still dealing with the anger and disappointment of being left out of the College Football Playoff field.
Despite coming through with a 10-2 record and winning 10 straight games to close out the season, Notre Dame was out on the outside looking in. After seeing both Tulane and James Madison get defeated easily by their opponents, it was clear that the Fighting Irish should have been included in the field.
While the disappointment was tough to swallow, the focus has turned to the future for the Fighting Irish after declining to play in a bowl game.
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In recent days, rumors about Freeman potentially leaving for the NFL have gained steam. That could happen, but Notre Dame is focused on adding talent in an attempt to get back into national championship contention in 2026.
One clear need for the Fighting Irish will be replacing star running back Jeremiyah Love. He will be taking his talents to the 2026 NFL Draft.
Notre Dame might have to look no further than one of the teams who made the playoff above them for a replacement.
James Madison running back Wayne Knight has decided to enter the NCAA transfer portal. The Fighting Irish have now been named a potential fit for him in the portal as a candidate to replace Love.
Ryan Guthrie of PFSN has named Notre Dame as one of the top potential destinations for Knight in the portal.
“Even if head coach Marcus Freeman doesn’t view Knight as a clear RB1, he would immediately slot in as the best complementary 1B option in a backfield Notre Dame has historically been comfortable rotating,” Guthrie wrote. “Knight’s receiving ability would also add a new dimension to the Irish offense.”
During the 2025 college football season with James Madison, Knight put together strong numbers. He carried the football 207 times for 1,373 yards and nine touchdowns, averaging 6.6 yards per carry. In addition, he caught 40 passes for 397 yards and a touchdown.
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Knight has clear starting running back potential for a team like the Fighting Irish. Notre Dame could double down and rotate a second back, but he would be a big part of the backfield next season.
There are plenty of other schools who will have interest in adding Knight. However, the Fighting Irish should be watched closely as a potential option for him.
For more on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and for more college football news, head to Newsweek Sports.