Marcus Freeman leads Notre Dame to the top of the 2025 recruiting class rankings, followed by Ohio State, Clemson, and Alabama. Notre Dame’s momentum reflects elite development and recruiting dominance.
Under the leadership of head coach Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame’s football program has experienced a remarkable resurgence in recruiting, culminating in a 2025 class that reflects both strategic innovation and a return to the program’s storied traditions. This class not only bolsters the team’s talent pool but also underscores Freeman’s commitment to excellence both on and off the field.
Strategic Overhaul of Recruiting Practices
Upon his appointment in December 2021, Freeman recognized the need to modernize Notre Dame’s recruiting approach to compete at the highest levels. He expanded the recruiting staff from six to ten members, enhancing the program’s ability to identify and pursue top talent nationwide. This expansion included the promotion of key figures such as Chad Bowden to Director of Recruiting and the hiring of Anthony Treash to bolster talent evaluation efforts.
Freeman’s strategy involved a comprehensive evaluation of prospects, focusing not only on athletic prowess but also on character and fit within Notre Dame’s unique culture. This holistic approach led to the recruitment of players like safety Adon Shuler, who chose Notre Dame over offers from prominent programs, citing the authenticity and transparency of the coaching staff.
National Expansion of Recruiting Footprint
Breaking away from traditional recruiting boundaries, Freeman and his staff ventured into regions previously less explored by Notre Dame. They secured commitments from players such as running back Aneyas Williams from Hannibal, Missouri, and quarterback Deuce Knight from Lucedale, Mississippi. This national approach not only diversified the team’s talent pool but also increased Notre Dame’s visibility across the country.
Embracing Modern Recruiting Tools
Understanding the evolving landscape of college football, Freeman adapted to changes such as the transfer portal and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. He emphasized transparency with recruits regarding NIL possibilities, ensuring that prospects and their families had a clear understanding of Notre Dame’s offerings in this new era.
Notable Commitments and Legacy Signings
The 2025 class features several high-profile commitments that highlight Freeman’s recruiting success. Among them are:
- Dallas Golden: A four-star safety from Tampa, Florida, who chose Notre Dame over offers from Alabama, Georgia, and Florida State. Golden’s decision was influenced by the genuine relationships built during his recruitment.
- Jerome Bettis Jr.: The son of Notre Dame and NFL legend Jerome Bettis, he brings a legacy connection that adds to the program’s rich history.
- Ivan Taylor: The son of former Steelers cornerback Ike Taylor, Ivan is a highly-ranked four-star safety, further strengthening Notre Dame’s defensive backfield.
Additionally, the class includes commitments from three sons of former Pittsburgh Steelers players—Jerome Bettis Jr., Plaxico Burress Jr., and Ivan Taylor—each bringing a unique legacy and talent to the Fighting Irish.
Comparative Analysis: Freeman vs. Kelly Eras
A comparative analysis of recruiting under Freeman versus former head coach Brian Kelly reveals significant improvements. Freeman’s first two classes (2023 and 2024) secured 37 four and five-star recruits, with only eight three-star recruits. In contrast, Kelly’s tenure saw a lower percentage of four and five-star recruits, highlighting Freeman’s effectiveness in attracting top-tier talent.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite these successes, the recruiting landscape remains highly competitive. Notre Dame faces challenges such as late commitment flips and the need to continually adapt to NIL dynamics. For instance, running back Justin Thurman flipped his commitment from Notre Dame to Kansas, a decision described as mutual. citeturn0news15 However, Freeman’s proactive approach, characterized by building genuine relationships and embracing modern recruiting tools, positions Notre Dame favorably for sustained success.
Under Marcus Freeman’s leadership, Notre Dame has transformed its recruiting strategy, leading to the acquisition of a 2025 class that ranks among the nation’s best. This success is attributed to Freeman’s innovative approach, which combines modern recruiting practices with the preservation of Notre Dame’s traditional values. As the program continues to evolve, Freeman’s vision ensures that Notre Dame remains a formidable force in college football, attracting elite talent and competing at the highest levels.
