CJ Donaldson

De'Carlo "CJ" Donaldson Jr. is an American professional football running back currently playing for the New Orleans Saints of the National Football League. Born on July 9, 2004, in Georgia, he stands at 6 feet 1 inch and weighs 230 pounds. As of 2026, Donaldson is a rookie navigating the competitive landscape of the NFL after a collegiate career that spanned two major universities.

He gained attention for his physical build and resilience as an undrafted free agent who signed with the Saints in April 2026. His journey from a high school player in Georgia to the professional gridiron involved a strategic transfer from West Virginia University to Ohio State University. This move allowed him to showcase his skills against top-tier competition before entering the draft. [edit]

De'Carlo Donaldson was born in Georgia and spent his early years developing his athletic abilities within the state's high school football system. Like many prospects aiming for the highest levels of the sport, he committed to playing college football but chose a path that required adaptability. He began his collegiate career at West Virginia University, where he played for three seasons between 2022 and 2024. During his time with the Mountaineers, he appeared in 32 games, establishing himself as a productive runner capable of handling significant carries.

In a pivotal decision to elevate his profile and test his abilities against stronger defenses, Donaldson transferred to Ohio State University for the 2025 season. Wearing jersey number 12 as a senior, he completed his final year of college eligibility with the Buckeyes. His performance at Ohio State, combined with his previous production at West Virginia, positioned him as a viable prospect for the professional ranks despite not being selected in the 2026 NFL Draft. This period marked the culmination of his amateur career before he entered the league. [edit]

CJ Donaldson entered the 2026 NFL Draft without being selected by any team, a common hurdle for talented players who must prove themselves outside the initial selection process. Undeterred, he signed with the New Orleans Saints on April 26, 2026, agreeing to terms as a rookie free agent. His entry into the league was immediately notable due to his imposing size and potential to contribute to the offense.

By August 2026, Donaldson had earned recognition during preseason training camp. He was featured prominently in highlights alongside quarterback Zach Wilson, demonstrating his ability to make plays in tight spaces and connect on short routes. In early September 2026, he received a significant boost when the Saints elevated him from the practice squad to the active roster for a Week 1 matchup against the Detroit Lions. This call-up provided him with his first opportunity to play in an official NFL regular-season game, marking the successful transition from college star to professional athlete. [edit]

Media descriptions of CJ Donaldson emphasize his power and physical presence as a running back. He is often portrayed as a hardworking rookie with a "tunnel-vision" running style that allows him to finish runs effectively. While noted for his ability to absorb contact, analysts suggest he needs to improve his vision beyond assigned gaps to maximize his potential. His public image is that of a promising talent fighting to secure a consistent role in a competitive backfield behind veterans like Alvin Kamara. [edit]

iFANN has not yet collected fame data for this person. As a rookie in the 2026 season, CJ Donaldson does not currently hold a position in the Global Fame Rankings. His support base consists primarily of die-hard New Orleans Saints fans and college football enthusiasts who followed his transfer from West Virginia to Ohio State. Fan interactions are limited to social media comments and fantasy football discussions rather than organized campaigns or formal fan clubs. [edit]

Donaldson's path to the NFL was defined by a unique transfer trajectory. Unlike many stars who stay at one program, he spent three seasons at West Virginia before moving to Ohio State, a move that required navigating complex NCAA transfer rules and rebuilding chemistry with new coaching staffs. His physical attributes are also noteworthy; standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 230 pounds, he possesses a rare combination of size and agility for a running back. Despite his strong physical profile and college production, going undrafted in 2026 forced him to rely on sheer work ethic to secure a spot on an NFL roster. [edit]

De'Carlo Donaldson was born in Georgia to parents whose names have not been widely publicized. He has maintained a low profile regarding his family life, keeping personal details private as he focuses on his professional football career. There are no publicly reported siblings or extended family members who have made headlines in connection with his athletic achievements. As a young athlete in his first year of the NFL, his household consists primarily of himself while he navigates the demands of a professional contract. [edit]

Zach Wilson, Alvin Kamara, West Virginia University, Ohio State University, New Orleans Saints[edit]

As of late 2026, CJ Donaldson maintains a private personal life. There are no widely reported public romantic relationships, marriages, or engagements documented in credible sources. Given his age of 22 and his recent transition from college football to the professional ranks, it is consistent with his career stage that he has not yet been the subject of high-profile media coverage regarding dating history. No children have been publicly attributed to him. He continues to focus on his development as a rookie running back for the New Orleans Saints. [edit]

iFANN Editorial Team estimates CJ Donaldson's net worth at approximately $450,000 as of 2026. This figure reflects the standard rookie contract value for an undrafted free agent entering the league in 2026. Typical contracts for players in his position range from $300,000 to $600,000 over their first three years, depending on signing bonuses and cap structures. His primary income source remains his NFL salary, with no major business ventures, real estate holdings, or endorsement deals publicly documented at this stage of his career. [edit]