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The Notre Dame Fighting Irish have a roster full of players, and we want to talk about all of them. One Foot Down’s player profile series will take a look at every single one of them, and hopefully we all learn a little bit more about these guys, and Notre Dame’s chances for the upcoming 2018 season.
#8 Jafar Armstrong
Next up on the list is Sophomore Wide Receiver turned Running Back, Jafar Armstrong. He did not see the field in 2017 and wore #25, but has since taken #8. Due to the lack of depth at Running Back, he was asked to make the switch from Wide Receiver this Spring. The transition has seemed like a smooth process thus far, and he looked like he belonged on the field during the Spring Game. His versatile nature and athleticism have drawn comparisons to current NFL players Theo Riddick and C.J. Prosise. I am not totally sold on those just yet, but definitely wouldn’t mind someone to match the productions of those two great hybrid players.
3 Things to Know About Jafar Armstrong
- He has the All Time Kansas record for touchdown receptions, scoring 45 over the course of his high school career.
- Jafar was originally committed to Missouri, but de-committed to join the Irish following a visit over the Winter of his Senior year.
- He has bulked up significantly since arriving to South Bend, coming in at 185, and now after being “built by Balis” is up to 213, which suits his position switch.
Youtube Hot Fire
He is very smooth coming out of the backfield, and looks great catching screens.
Notre Dame WR/RB Jafar Armstrong highlights from the Spring Game. He looks so explosive. Listed at 6'1" 213 lbs. Played WR last year, practiced at RB during the Spring. #Devy pic.twitter.com/pGjpiAfQof
— Fusue Vue (@lifesyourcup) April 25, 2018
Country, Condiment, or Canon
Identifying the player as either a country, condiment, or member of the Star Wars Canon
R2D2
As I alluded to in the header, I would have to compare my man Jafar, due to both his utility and his name, to R2D2. R2D2 is the the unsung hero in the series. He is constantly unlocking doors, fixing ships, reprogramming operating systems, and just generally saving the day. With that, I present to you.... JafaR2D2 (I am far too proud of this).
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Jafar will play multiple roles this season and must be prepared to play on special team and as a WR/RB. He hopes to become the utility man out of the backfield in order to solidify some established playing time.
2018 Forecast
Jafar will see opportunities at Running Back, Wide Receiver, H-Back, and on Special teams this year. For the first few games he will see time situationally, taking a back seat while the unit is healthy. However, if there is an injury at running back at any point, he will be inserted regularly due to his ability to make plays out of the backfield. He will see the field, but how much will be dependent on the already shaky Running Back Depth.