New DL target emerging? Texas standout Alister Vallejo talks new Notre Dame scholarship offer.

Notre Dame has been aggressive in the 2025 recruiting cycle when it comes to bolstering its defensive line depth, and a new name has surfaced: Alister Vallejo. The 6-foot-4, 270-pound defensive lineman out of Austin, Texas, has seen his recruitment explode over the past few months, and now the Fighting Irish are officially in the mix after extending a scholarship offer this week.

For Vallejo, the Notre Dame offer wasn’t just another line on his growing list of options — it was one he had been hoping for.

“When I got the call, I was just in shock,” Vallejo told reporters on Wednesday. “Notre Dame is one of those schools you dream about growing up. Their tradition, the academics, the level of football — it’s special. It’s definitely a blessing to have this opportunity.”

A Rapidly Ascending Prospect

Vallejo has been one of the fastest-rising defensive line prospects in Texas for the Class of 2025. After a dominant junior season at Westlake High School, where he posted 67 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, and 10 sacks, Vallejo began drawing serious attention from Power Five programs. Schools like Texas, Texas A&M, Oklahoma, USC, and Michigan have all been in steady communication.

Despite all the local and national interest, the Notre Dame offer caught Vallejo’s attention in a different way.

“Some offers are cool, and you appreciate them,” Vallejo said. “But Notre Dame hits different. It’s the tradition. It’s the education. It’s how they develop their players, not just for football, but for life after football.”

Notre Dame’s Pitch

Defensive line coach Al Washington was the point man in recruiting Vallejo, with head coach Marcus Freeman also getting personally involved in the conversation.

“Coach Washington said he loved my motor, my flexibility, and my ability to rush from the edge and inside,” Vallejo explained. “He said they want guys who are versatile up front, who can play multiple spots depending on the situation. That’s something I pride myself on.”

Notre Dame is recruiting Vallejo as a hybrid defensive lineman — someone who could fit as a three-technique defensive tackle or slide outside in heavier fronts. It’s the same flexibility that has made players like Rylie Mills and Howard Cross such valuable assets for the Irish defense in recent years.

“They showed me some of the film of how they used their guys last season,” Vallejo said. “That got me excited. I think I could really thrive in that system.”

Freeman also emphasized Notre Dame’s broader development plan.

“Coach Freeman was telling me it’s about being the best man you can be, not just the best football player,” Vallejo said. “That hit me deep. That’s what my family’s always taught me too.”

Academic Fit Matters

One major reason Notre Dame stands out to Vallejo? Academics.

A 4.0 student at Westlake, Vallejo said education has always been a major part of his college decision-making process. He plans to major in business or finance.

“My parents have always said football is a gift, but your brain is forever,” Vallejo said. “At Notre Dame, you’re getting one of the best educations in the country. That’s not something you take lightly.”

While many recruits might give lip service to academics, Vallejo has backed it up with his commitment in the classroom. His high GPA, leadership roles at Westlake, and community service work have made him an ideal fit for Notre Dame’s broader mission.

“I want to set myself up for life, not just three or four years,” Vallejo said.

Visit Plans

After receiving the offer, Vallejo said he immediately began working with the Notre Dame staff to schedule a visit.

“We’re looking at coming up in June for an official visit,” Vallejo confirmed. “I want to see it with my own eyes, meet the players, the coaches, see how it feels.”

The timing could be crucial for Notre Dame. Vallejo is eyeing a summer commitment, hoping to lock in his decision before his senior season begins in August.

“I’m not trying to drag it out too long,” he said. “I want to focus on my team and winning a state championship.”

Along with Notre Dame, Vallejo said he plans to take officials to Texas, Texas A&M, and USC. Oklahoma and Michigan are battling for the fifth spot on his visit list.

How He Fits into Notre Dame’s Defensive Line Plans

Notre Dame’s defensive line class for 2025 is still taking shape. The Irish already have a pledge from four-star defensive end Owen Pfeiffer (Illinois) but are looking to add multiple interior and hybrid players to round out the group.

Vallejo’s versatility and upside make him a high-priority target, especially considering Notre Dame’s recent focus on landing bigger, more disruptive linemen who can handle multiple roles in Al Golden’s system.

In addition to his physical gifts — quick hands, a strong first step, and surprising closing speed — Vallejo’s football IQ stands out. He often calls defensive adjustments at Westlake, a responsibility usually reserved for linebackers.

“I watch a ton of film,” Vallejo said. “I love breaking down protections, figuring out where the weak spot is. That’s the chess match of football that people don’t always see.”

Notre Dame values that mental approach, and it could be a major factor in their pursuit of Vallejo moving forward.

Reaction Around Recruiting Circles

The offer to Vallejo was met with excitement among Notre Dame recruiting analysts.

“Alister Vallejo is the kind of player who could jump into the Top 100 nationally with a strong senior year,” said 247Sports recruiting analyst Tom Loy. “He’s that good. Notre Dame getting in now gives them a real shot to be a factor until the end.”

Rivals’ Adam Gorney echoed the sentiment.

“Vallejo’s tape is outstanding. He’s strong at the point of attack, moves really well laterally, and plays with a nasty streak,” Gorney said. “Notre Dame knows how important it is to win battles in Texas, and Vallejo is exactly the kind of kid who fits them culturally and athletically.”

Vallejo’s Closing Thoughts

Though his recruitment is heating up, Vallejo remains grounded in his approach.

“I’m just trying to stay humble and thankful,” he said. “Not everyone gets this opportunity. I want to make the most of it, represent my family well, and find the place that feels like home — not just for football, but for life.”

For Notre Dame, the opportunity to add a rising star like Vallejo could be a pivotal moment for the 2025 class. And for Vallejo, South Bend may just be the perfect fit he’s been dreaming about.

“I’m excited to get up there,” Vallejo said. “I want to experience it all. I want to see if it’s really the right place for me.” Stay tuned — Vallejo’s recruitment is just heating up, and Notre Dame has firmly planted itself in the race.