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Notre Dame Fighting Irish junior running back Josh Adams today declared his intention to join the NFL next spring.
In an announcement on his Instagram page, Adams said:
“With a lot of thought, prayer and discussion with my family, I’ve decided to forgo my senior year and enter the 2018 NFL Draft. I’d like to thank the university, my family, teammates, coaches, support staff and everyone who has been with me throughout my journey at Notre Dame. I’m beyond blessed to have been surrounded by such a loving community. I chose Notre Dame because it was a place that allowed me to pursue my full potential, and it was a decision that would affect the rest of my life.
“I’ll always have Notre Dame in my heart. With my decision, I hope that people will know and kids will see how it’s okay to chase your dreams, because with God ‘all things are possible.’ Also, it is never too late to finish what you start, and that is why I will always be connected to this great university. In addition, I’ll definitely be back to earn and receive my degree at Notre Dame.
“Again, I’d like to thank the incredible fans for their energy and support and I’d also like to thank my teammates for the unbelievable journey. The bonds and friendships that were built are unforgettable and will last forever.
“Forever love thee...Forever God. Country. Notre Dame.
“Josh Adams
For his career, Adams rushed 481 times and gained 3,198 yards (6.65 yards per carry), while reaching the end zone 20 times. The junior also caught 41 balls for an additional 336 yards and two scores. Adams will leave as Notre Dame’s fifth all-time leading rusher. His position coach, Autry Denson, is No. 1 with 4,318 yards.
Adams is making the correct call here. The Warrington, Pa. product has been very productive in college, but sidelined by numerous injuries (including a torn ACL in high school). The junior finished less than 10 yards from eclipsing Notre Dame’s single season rushing record, thanks in large part to following blocks from two future first round NFL Draft picks in Mike McGlinchey and Quenton Nelson.
Simply put, it’s unreasonable to expect that Adams would increase his draft stock running by a less talented offensive line and subjecting himself to further injury without the prospect of being paid.
We wish Josh the best of luck in earning a living. And when it’s all over, I certainly hope he keeps his commitment to return and finish his degree.
Adams is the second Notre Dame underclassman to declare for the draft in the past 24 hours, joining teammate Equanimeous St. Brown -- who announced his decision Thursday afternoon.