Lucky Charms: Is Notre Dame Becoming a Strong Contender for Top TE Recruit?

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish have long been synonymous with producing elite tight ends. From the legendary Kyle Rudolph to recent stars like Michael Mayer and Mitchell Evans, the program has consistently developed top-tier talent at the position. As the 2025 recruiting cycle progresses, Notre Dame’s tight end recruiting efforts continue to impress, with a notable commitment and potential future additions on the horizon.

🏈 James Flanigan: A Legacy Commitment

In October 2023, Notre Dame secured a significant commitment from James Flanigan, a four-star tight end from Green Bay, Wisconsin. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 226 pounds, Flanigan is ranked as the No. 7 tight end and No. 244 overall player in the 2025 class by Rivals. His commitment adds to the rich legacy of Notre Dame football, as he is the son of former Irish defensive lineman Jim Flanigan.

Flanigan’s recruitment was influenced by his strong relationships with the coaching staff, including head coach Marcus Freeman, offensive coordinator/tight ends coach Gerad Parker, and director of recruiting Chad Bowden. A standout visit during Notre Dame’s 48-20 victory over USC further solidified his decision to join the Fighting Irish .

Scouting reports highlight Flanigan’s raw athleticism, straight-line speed, and versatility. He has the ability to play both on the ball and split out wide, showcasing his potential as a modern-day tight end. Analysts have compared his upside to that of former Notre Dame star Cole Kmet, noting his physical style and development trajectory .

🧠 Nate Roberts: A Rising Star

Another significant addition to Notre Dame’s tight end corps is Nate Roberts, a four-star recruit from Washington, Oklahoma. Roberts stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 225 pounds, ranking as the nation’s No. 3 tight end and No. 137 overall player in the 2025 class, according to On3. He committed to the Irish in June 2024, choosing Notre Dame over offers from powerhouse programs like Ohio State and Clemson .

Roberts’ recruitment was marked by strong relationships with the coaching staff, particularly offensive coordinator/tight ends coach Gerad Parker. His familiarity with Coach Parker, combined with the program’s tradition and culture, played a pivotal role in his decision to commit .

On the field, Roberts is known for his dynamic playmaking ability. As a sophomore, he amassed 705 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns on just 33 receptions, averaging an impressive 21.3 yards per catch. His combination of size, speed, and hands makes him a formidable threat in the passing game .

🔮 Future Prospects: Kendre Harrison

Looking ahead, Notre Dame is also making strides in the 2026 recruiting class. One of the top targets is Kendre Harrison, a 5-star tight end from North Carolina. Standing 6-foot-7 and weighing 243 pounds, Harrison is ranked as the nation’s No. 1 tight end and No. 6 overall prospect in the 2026 class. He has narrowed his list to ten schools, with Notre Dame making the cut .

Harrison’s recruitment is highly competitive, with programs like Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State vying for his commitment. However, Notre Dame’s rich tradition of developing tight ends and its strong relationships with Harrison could give the Irish an edge in this recruitment battle.

🏆 Notre Dame: “Tight End U”

With the commitments of Flanigan and Roberts, along with the pursuit of Harrison, Notre Dame continues to solidify its reputation as “Tight End U.” The program’s consistent success in developing elite tight ends has become a cornerstone of its recruiting strategy, attracting top talent from across the country.

The combination of a storied tradition, a strong coaching staff, and a commitment to player development makes Notre Dame an attractive destination for aspiring tight ends. As the 2025 season approaches, the Fighting Irish are poised to continue their legacy of excellence at the tight end position.

📅 Upcoming Events

• 2025 Season Opener: Notre Dame vs. Miami – September 6, 2025
• Official Visit: Andrew Olesh (2025 TE commit) to Notre Dame – November 9, 2025
• Recruiting Event: The Pot of Gold – March 2026

For more updates on Notre Dame football recruiting, stay tuned to our coverage and analysis.