Notre Dame has moved quickly after its CFP victory over Penn State, adding a major acquisition to its staff. Ja’Juan Seider, the Nittany Lions’ long-tenured running backs coach, is expected to accept the running backs job with the Fighting Irish, according to 247Sports’ Matt Zenitz.
Seider has been an integral part of James Franklin’s staff since 2018. Over his seven-year tenure, he earned promotions to assistant head coach and co-offensive coordinator while building one of the most potent recruiting networks in the region. ESPN first reported that Notre Dame was “targeting” Seider, a signal that Marcus Freeman’s program is not content with on-field victories alone.
A proven developer, Seider sharpened his craft with stops at Florida, West Virginia and Marshall before coming to Penn State. His resume also includes mentoring NFL talent such as Carolina Panthers running back Miles Sanders.
At Penn State, he played a key role in the growth of superstar running backs Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen. Both running backs have committed to return for the 2025 season.
Singleton, a five-star recruit and nation’s No. 1 running back in the Class of 2022, ran 172 times for 1,099 yards (6.4 yards per carry) and scored 12 touchdowns while hauling in 41 receptions for 375 yards and five touchdowns in 2024. Allen added 220 carries for 1,108 yards (5.0 yards per carry) and eight touchdowns along with 18 catches for 153 yards and two touchdowns.
Beyond game-day contributions, Seider built lasting relationships that helped boost Penn State’s recruiting. He was pivotal in landing in-state running backs Tiqwai Hayes and Jabree Wallace-Coleman for the Class of 2025. This follows the addition of top recruit Quinton Martin and four-star Corey Smith in the Class of 2024.
Losing Seider leaves a noticeable void in Franklin’s staff, particularly in an era when recruiting battles are as fierce as on-field matchups.
Freeman’s move to secure Seider highlights a broader strategy at Notre Dame. After claiming victory over Penn State on the gridiron, adding a seasoned recruiter and talent developer to the coaching roster sends a strong message.
The reported hiring bolsters Notre Dame’s backfield credentials and could tip the scales in upcoming contests. Seider’s track record with developing talent will be a critical asset as the Fighting Irish aim to enhance their offensive game.
For Penn State, the departure of Seider is more than a personnel change—it represents a challenge to maintain its competitive edge. Franklin’s staff now faces the task of finding a successor who can replicate Seider’s achievements on both recruiting and player development fronts.
In a landscape where coaching moves often dictate future success, Freeman’s reported acquisition of Seider is a strategic play. With a seasoned coach stepping into the role, Notre Dame is poised to capitalize on his ability to shape a dynamic running game. Meanwhile, Penn State must adapt quickly if it hopes to continue drawing top talent to its program and keep pace in the ever-evolving world of college football.
