Jamel James, a Class of 2013 running back from football-rich Texas, will bring a physical presence to the Notre Dame backfield when he steps onto campus in South Bend.

Fighting Irish head coach Brian Kelly and his staff received a verbal pledge from the bruising runner over the weekend, and the former Arkansas commit will fill a similar role to that of former power backs Robert Hughes and Jonas Gray and help complement the Fighting Irish's spread passing attack.

The 5-11, 220-pound Cinco Ranch High School product (Katy, Texas) produces best between the tackles and will not go down often after initial contact. He has deceptive speed as well, which makes him a real good "get" for Kelly and his staff, especially after the Irish lost out on Ty Isaac and Ryan Green.

James became Notre Dame's 18th commitment in the 2013 class. The running back also held offers from major powers such as Florida State, LSU and West Virginia.

Email dave.miller@nationalfootballpost.com or follow me on Twitter at Miller_Dave