243 carries, 1921 yards, 19 TD, 7.91 yards per carry

11-1 team record
96.03 Strength Index
33.93 Opponents’ Strength Index
#1 seed in Non-public, Group B
Non-public, Group B State Champion

Other stats: 27 receptions, 340 yards, 4 TD; 11 tackles (8 solo), 1 interception

Best game: 21 carries, 249 yards, 4 TD, 11.86 yards per carry

Worst game: 15 carries, 62 yards, 4.13 yards per carry

In what is apparently his third-straight state championship game appearance, Nolan James Nolan James 5'11" | 185 lbs | RB DePaul Catholic | 2025 State NJ has finally reached the mountain top. With his two previous appearances being with Don Bosco, a change to green rewarded James. In his final high school game before he is off to Boston College, the Spartans rode James into the sunset. James went for 244 yards and 2 scores on 29 attempts fr an 8.4 yards per carry average. It was more of a slow burn for James, as his longest run was just 33-yards.

As he puts the crowning piece on his career, James finishes his senior season with 243 carries, 1921 yards, and 19 touchdowns. In-all, James has career numbers of 584 carries, 4125 yards, and 38 touchdowns.

Nolan James Nolan James 5'11" | 185 lbs | RB DePaul Catholic | 2025 State NJ Jr. was the driving force behind DePaul Catholic’s dominant ground game in the Non-Public B championship. The senior carried the ball 29 times for 244 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his ability to close out games and grind out tough yards when it mattered most. James combined physicality with excellent vision and elusiveness, consistently winning one-on-one matchups. One of the best all-around backs in New Jersey, James capped off his high school career with a state title. Following his commitment flip to Notre Dame, he’s poised to make an impact at the next level.

Nolan James Nolan James 5'11" | 185 lbs | RB DePaul Catholic | 2025 State NJ delivered a spectacular performance in his final high school game, cementing himself as the biggest standout of the Non-Public B Finals. The senior running back rushed for over 150 yards and scored three touchdowns, showcasing his ability to dominate in every phase of the ground game. He combined physicality with an impressive burst through the hole, consistently breaking tackles with elite contact balance. James’ relentless effort as a runner was the driving force behind DePaul Catholic’s state championship victory. Recently flipping his commitment from Boston College to Notre Dame, James capped off his high school career with a performance to remember.

Nolan James Nolan James 5'11" | 185 lbs | RB DePaul Catholic | 2025 State NJ Jr. put on a clinic in DePaul Catholic’s semifinal win over Holy Spirit, solidifying why he’s one of the most sought-after players in the country. The senior running back, who recently committed to Notre Dame, showcased his dual-threat ability. As a receiver, he hauled in three catches for 56 yards and two touchdowns, tying for the team lead in receiving scores. On the ground, he was dominant, racking up 155 yards on 21 carries and adding another touchdown. Nolan’s performance demonstrated why he’s a strong Player of the Year candidate. He has consistently been the focal point of DePaul’s offense, delivering in every game phase.

Nolan James Nolan James 5'11" | 185 lbs | RB DePaul Catholic | 2025 State NJ Jr. performed outstandingly against Pope John, putting up a show that solidified his status as a strong candidate for New Jersey’s Player of the Year award. He scored three touchdowns—two on the ground and one through the air—finishing the game with 18 carries for 126 rushing yards and five receptions for 76 yards.

Nolan’s game was a masterclass in what it takes to be a reliable and effective back. His footwork was precise, vision sharp, and his ability to churn out tough yards and push the pile was fully displayed. He also showed excellent contact balance, making him a constant threat to break tackles and extend plays. Perhaps most importantly, Nolan proved his knack for finding the end zone, particularly in goal-line situations. His performance against Pope John wasn’t just impressive; it was a statement. Nolan James Nolan James 5'11" | 185 lbs | RB DePaul Catholic | 2025 State NJ Jr. is a player to watch as the season unfolds, with more monster games likely on the horizon.

Nolan James Nolan James 5'11" | 185 lbs | RB DePaul Catholic | 2025 State NJ Jr. from DePaul Catholic enters his senior season as one of New Jersey’s most dynamic offensive weapons, and there’s no reason to believe this year will be any different. Over the past three seasons, Nolan has consistently proven himself as a versatile threat, and with DePaul Catholic boasting more weapons than ever before, he’s poised to shine again.

Nolan is a running back who truly does it all. As a runner, he combines exceptional vision with open-field moves, speed, and elusiveness. He’s shifty, but also a physical presence who can grind out tough yards and contribute in goal-line situations. However, his impact in the passing game sets Nolan apart. With soft hands and crisp routes, he’s more than just a running back—he’s a reliable receiver who can make big plays after the catch thanks to his physicality and stout lower body.

It’s not far-fetched to imagine Nolan posting over 20 rushing touchdowns this season, with another five to ten through the air. A 1,000-yard campaign is well within reach, given his skill set and the talent surrounding him. Playing alongside top P4 prospects like Ohio State commit Des Jones, Notre Dame commit Elijah Burris, and quarterback Derek Zammit Derek Zammit 6'0" | 170 lbs | QB DePaul Catholic | 2026 State NJ , who holds offers from schools like Wake Forest and West Virginia, Nolan will benefit from open lanes, favorable one-on-one matchups, and plenty of scoring opportunities.

With all these factors in play, Nolan James Nolan James 5'11" | 185 lbs | RB DePaul Catholic | 2025 State NJ Jr. has the potential to lead DePaul Catholic back to the Non-Public B championship game and make a strong case for New Jersey’s Player of the Year.