Rodney Dunham Chooses Notre Dame Over Tennessee, South Carolina, and Georgia

In a significant development for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, five-star edge rusher Rodney Dunham from Myers Park High School in Charlotte, North Carolina, has committed to Notre Dame for the 2026 football recruiting class. The 6’4″, 227-pound athlete chose the Fighting Irish over a host of elite programs, including Georgia, South Carolina, Duke, Tennessee, Ohio State, Alabama, and Michigan. citeturn0news12

Recruitment Journey

Dunham’s recruitment journey has been closely watched by college football enthusiasts. In November 2024, he announced his top eight schools, which included Tennessee, South Carolina, Notre Dame, Florida State, Duke, Georgia, Alabama, and Ohio State. This list was later narrowed down to a top five comprising Notre Dame, Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Duke. citeturn0search1turn0search8

Throughout his recruitment, Dunham has been a frequent visitor to several campuses. He has taken unofficial visits to Florida State and Duke, and has scheduled official visits to Georgia, South Carolina, Notre Dame, and Tennessee. citeturn0search2turn0search3 His official visit to Notre Dame is set for June 14, 2025.

Player Profile

On the field, Dunham is celebrated for his athleticism, smooth movement, and high upside as a pass rusher. Scouts note that he possesses a quick first step and agility, making him a formidable presence on passing downs. His ability to transition from speed to power allows him to effectively collapse the pocket and disrupt opposing quarterbacks. However, there is recognition that he still needs to develop physically and technically to reach his full potential. citeturn0news12

In addition to football, Dunham is a talented multi-sport athlete who also aspires to pitch in college baseball. citeturn0news12

Notre Dame’s Recruiting Strategy

Notre Dame’s coaching staff, including head coach Marcus Freeman and defensive coordinator Al Golden, have been actively involved in Dunham’s recruitment. The staff’s consistent communication and recruitment efforts have been highlighted as factors in Dunham’s decision. The Irish have demonstrated a strong interest in Dunham, with Freeman visiting Myers Park High School shortly after the National Championship Game to sit down with Dunham and his family. citeturn0search3

Impact on Notre Dame’s Recruiting Class

Dunham’s commitment is a significant boost to Notre Dame’s 2026 recruiting class. He becomes the ninth commitment for the class and the third from North Carolina, joining elite pass-rusher Ebenezer Ewetade. This commitment elevates Notre Dame to the No. 7 position in the 247 Team Composite Rankings, bolstering the school’s defensive end talent. citeturn0news12

Coaching Perspective

Myers Park head coach Chris James speaks highly of Dunham’s work ethic and leadership qualities. He describes Dunham as a player with relentless effort, strong physical attributes, and a quiet yet effective leadership style. James notes that Dunham leads by example, giving extra effort in the weight room and demonstrating what it takes to reach the next level. citeturn0search3