NFL legacy WR Devin Fitzgerald flips commitment to Notre Dame Fighting Irish football Over North Carolina and Clemson Tigers
In a stunning turn of events, four-star wide receiver Devin Fitzgerald has officially committed to the University of Notre Dame for the 2026 football season. The son of NFL legend Larry Fitzgerald, Devin’s decision to join the Fighting Irish marks a significant moment in his recruitment journey and adds a new chapter to the storied history of Notre Dame football.
Devin Fitzgerald hails from Phoenix, Arizona, where he attended Brophy College Preparatory. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 185 pounds, Fitzgerald possesses the physical attributes that make him a formidable wide receiver. During his junior season, he recorded 52 receptions for 720 yards and nine touchdowns, showcasing his ability to make plays and contribute significantly to his team’s success. (on3.com)
His father, Larry Fitzgerald, is widely regarded as one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history. Over a 17-year career with the Arizona Cardinals, Larry amassed over 17,000 receiving yards and 121 touchdowns, earning numerous accolades and establishing a legacy of excellence. While Devin acknowledges his father’s influence, he is determined to carve out his own path and make a name for himself in the world of college football. (Irish Sports Daily)
Throughout his recruitment process, Fitzgerald attracted attention from several prestigious programs. He received scholarship offers from schools such as Arizona, Florida State, UCLA, Duke, and Vanderbilt, among others. Notably, he visited Clemson in March 2025 and had plans to visit Michigan later that spring, indicating his interest in exploring various options. (TigerNet.com, on3.com)
Despite the allure of these programs, Fitzgerald’s connection with Notre Dame remained strong. He made multiple visits to South Bend, including attending the Irish’s Junior Day event in January 2025. His coach, Jason Jewell, highlighted Fitzgerald’s work ethic and the alignment between Notre Dame’s values and those of Brophy Prep as key factors in his interest in the university. (Irish Sports Daily)
In a surprising move, Fitzgerald announced his commitment to Notre Dame on July 5, 2025. This decision came after careful consideration and reflection on what each program had to offer. Fitzgerald expressed that Notre Dame’s combination of top-tier football and academics, along with the strong sense of community, made it the ideal fit for him. (farinwata.com)
His commitment adds to a growing list of talented recruits joining the Fighting Irish. Wide receiver Dylan Faison had previously committed to Notre Dame in March 2024, and the addition of Fitzgerald bolsters the team’s receiving corps for the upcoming seasons. (notredame.rivals.com)
With Fitzgerald’s commitment, Notre Dame secures a player with the potential to make an immediate impact on the field. His combination of size, speed, and hands makes him a versatile threat in the passing game. As he prepares to join the Fighting Irish, Fitzgerald aims to honor his family’s legacy while establishing his own identity in the world of college football.
For Notre Dame fans, the addition of Devin Fitzgerald is a cause for excitement. His arrival in South Bend signifies not only the continuation of a rich football tradition but also the beginning of a new chapter in the program’s history.
