Landing an offer from Notre Dame was a surreal experience for North Crowley High School (Texas) cornerback Jerry Outhouse Jr.
For Jerry Outhouse Jr., a cornerback at North Crowley High School in Fort Worth, Texas, landing an offer from one of the most prestigious football programs in the country—Notre Dame—was a moment that would forever change the course of his athletic journey. The offer from the Fighting Irish, extended after months of anticipation, signified more than just an invitation to play college football at a high level. It was the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Outhouse’s path to this moment was not an easy one, but it was filled with lessons that would shape his mindset and prepare him for the challenges that lay ahead. From his early days on the gridiron, it was clear that Outhouse had a natural talent for the game. But, as any elite athlete knows, raw ability is just the starting point. What separates the good from the great is the mental toughness, work ethic, and focus on refining every aspect of the game. Outhouse’s journey to Notre Dame wasn’t just about the highlight reels or the viral plays—it was about consistency, discipline, and a deep understanding of the sport.
Early Years and Development at North Crowley High School
Jerry Outhouse Jr.’s football journey began long before he set foot on the field as a varsity player at North Crowley High School. Growing up in Texas, where football is a way of life, Outhouse was exposed to the game at an early age. He quickly fell in love with the sport, often idolizing professional cornerbacks like Deion Sanders and Patrick Peterson. However, it wasn’t just the glitz and glamour of the NFL that inspired him—it was the intricate, strategic aspect of the cornerback position. The mental chess game of reading quarterbacks, anticipating routes, and being one step ahead of the competition fascinated him.
At North Crowley, Outhouse was fortunate to have coaches who saw his potential early on. They didn’t just want him to be a good player—they aimed to mold him into a complete cornerback. Throughout his high school years, Outhouse worked diligently on every facet of his game, from footwork and hand placement to his ability to read offenses and react in real-time. His development wasn’t just physical; it was mental. Outhouse understood that cornerback is a position where mistakes are magnified, where every inch counts, and where confidence is key. He embraced these challenges and used them to fuel his growth.
By his sophomore year, Outhouse was already starting to turn heads in the Fort Worth area. His speed, agility, and football IQ were evident, but what truly set him apart was his ability to perform in clutch moments. Whether it was a game-winning interception or a crucial pass breakup on third down, Outhouse proved time and again that he could rise to the occasion.
The Recruiting Process: From Local Recognition to National Attention
As his junior year unfolded, Outhouse’s talents began to attract attention beyond his local area. College recruiters from across the country began to take notice of his potential. Schools from the Power Five conferences—teams like Texas, Oklahoma, and LSU—showed interest. But while those programs were intriguing, Outhouse had always been focused on the bigger picture. He wanted to play at a school that would challenge him both academically and athletically, a school that would push him to be the best version of himself on and off the field.
When Notre Dame entered the picture, it marked a turning point in his recruitment. The Fighting Irish had long been a program known for its tradition, success, and ability to develop players into NFL-caliber talent. For Outhouse, receiving an offer from such a storied program was a dream come true. It wasn’t just the prestige of Notre Dame that attracted him, though; it was the combination of athletics and academics. He had long understood the importance of excelling in the classroom, and the idea of playing for a university that valued both athletic and academic excellence resonated deeply with him.
“Getting that offer was surreal,” Outhouse reflects. “I had always dreamed of playing at a big-time school, but Notre Dame is different. It’s not just about football. It’s about the whole person—how they develop you as an athlete, but also as a student and a man. When I saw that offer come through, I was speechless for a second.”
The Notre Dame coaching staff recognized Outhouse’s raw talent and his ability to fit into their defensive system. They saw a cornerback who could cover a wide range of receivers, had the speed to keep up with the best, and had the mental toughness to thrive in the high-pressure environment of college football. But more than that, they saw a player who had the potential to be a leader, both on the field and in the locker room.
A Surreal Moment: The Offer from Notre Dame
The moment Outhouse received the offer from Notre Dame was one of the defining moments of his young career. It happened in the middle of his senior season, a time when he was already receiving offers from other big-name programs. But when Notre Dame came calling, it felt different. It was a validation of everything he had worked for—the countless hours in the weight room, the early mornings, the long practices, and the sacrifices he had made along the way. It was also a testament to the guidance of his family, his coaches, and his community, who had always believed in his ability to succeed at the highest level.
“I remember when Coach [Clark] Lea called me,” Outhouse says. “He told me that they had been watching me for a while and that they thought I’d be a great fit for their program. When he said, ‘We’d like to offer you a scholarship to Notre Dame,’ it was like all the hard work I had put in finally paid off. I was so grateful, but also excited for the future. I knew it was just the beginning.”
The offer was more than just a ticket to a prestigious university—it was a recognition of Outhouse’s dedication and his potential. The Fighting Irish were known for producing some of the best defensive backs in the country, and Outhouse saw an opportunity to continue to develop under their tutelage. He was drawn to the team’s legacy and the opportunity to compete for championships while receiving an education from one of the best academic institutions in the world.
The Decision and What It Means for the Future
For Outhouse, the decision to commit to Notre Dame wasn’t one he took lightly. It was the result of careful thought, discussions with his family, and a deep consideration of his goals both as a football player and as a student. He knew that Notre Dame would provide him with the opportunity to compete at the highest level, but more importantly, it would give him a platform to grow as a person and prepare for life after football.
“My family has always stressed the importance of education and being a well-rounded person,” Outhouse explains. “I know football won’t last forever, but the lessons I learn at Notre Dame, both on and off the field, will stick with me for life. I’m excited to take on the challenge and represent not just myself, but my family and my community.”
The commitment to Notre Dame also marked the beginning of a new chapter in Outhouse’s life. He knew that the competition would be fierce, and that the transition to college football wouldn’t be easy. But he was ready. He had put in the work, honed his skills, and developed the mindset necessary to succeed at the highest levels. Notre Dame, with its rich tradition of excellence and its commitment to player development, was the perfect place for him to continue that journey.
Looking ahead, Outhouse is focused on making the most of his time at Notre Dame. He understands that being a part of such a prestigious program comes with high expectations. But rather than feeling the pressure, he embraces it. It’s a challenge he’s been preparing for his entire life.
“I know what I’m capable of,” Outhouse says with confidence. “I’m going to work every day to get better, help my team win, and represent Notre Dame with pride.”
