Many talented programs have contacted the Florida native. Thurman’s new offer was significant despite hearing from prominent college football clubs.
“It was thrilling,” Thurman told Irish Breakdown. “Being given another chance to play at the next level, especially at Notre Dame, is a blessing. Great talk with Coach (Deland) McCullough. He discussed his experience and how Notre Dame would be a good fit for me academically, athletically, and long-term.
Thurman continued, “It would be a great opportunity knowing that Notre Dame has a strong academic foundation, a historical football program that Coach (Marcus) Freeman is continuing.
Thurman has loved recruiting. He knows numerous terrific coaches at top programs.
Thurman praised recruiting. “Learning about all the schools, programs, and coaching staffs has been good. I appreciate the coaches’ effort and knowledge in helping me.
“Not all conversations have been about football, but family and life,” he added. “I’m still learning about the schools and programs.”
Thurman will be busy in the next months. His first stop was South Bend.
Thurman said, “I am finishing May with an unofficial visit to Kansas this Friday, and the Six-Star Finals Showcase (Kansas City) this weekend on the 28th. Tennessee, Florida, Auburn, Central Florida, Notre Dame, and Alabama visit in June. I’m finalizing a couple others.”
Over the following two years, as a sophomore, there will be many visits and chats. Thurman is a mature young man. He understands his target.
“I am looking for a school and program that will develop me academically, as well as continue to help me develop as a next-level athlete and where I can compete,” he added. “One with a family culture and will help me grow.”
247Sports and On3 Industry list Thurman as a four-star prospect. 247Sports ranks him the highest in the 2025 recruiting class at No. 237 overall and No. 22 running back.
Top programs have contacted the Florida native. Notre Dame, Florida, Tennessee, Auburn, Louisville, Kansas State, Kansas, Rutgers, UCF, and others offered him.
As a junior, Jesuit’s 6-0, 180-pound runner is anticipated to play more. Thurman finished his sophomore season with 169 yards and two touchdowns on 19 attempts. That gives a strong 8.9 yard per carry average.
Thurman also defended the football. 10 tackles and a QB hurry ended his season. Thurman also averages 23.4 yards per kick return.
Notre Dame has struggled recruiting in Florida in recent cycles. Irish staff intends to alter that. They also offered 2025 Tampa Bay (Fla.) Jesuit running back Justin Thurman on Thursday.