The top football target for Notre Dame Dre Quinn is changing high schools in Georgia.

In the competitive landscape of high school football recruiting, a top prospect’s decision to transfer schools can send ripples across the college football world. Dre Quinn, one of the nation’s premier defensive prospects and a top target for Notre Dame, recently made headlines by transferring to Buford High School in Georgia. This move carries significant implications for his development, exposure, and eventual college choice.

In this article, we explore who Dre Quinn is, why his transfer matters, how it affects his recruitment, especially with Notre Dame, and what fans and recruiters can expect moving forward.

Who is Dre Quinn?

Dre Quinn is a 4-star defensive end from the Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC) in Norcross, Georgia. Listed at 6-foot-4 and about 220 pounds, Quinn has impressed coaches and scouts with his blend of size, speed, and football IQ. His standout performances on the field have earned him national recognition as one of the top defensive prospects in the 2026 class.

During his junior year, Quinn posted eye-catching stats — recording 42 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, and forcing a fumble. His ability to pressure quarterbacks, stop the run, and create turnovers makes him a highly coveted player at the next level.

What sets Quinn apart is not just his raw physical tools, but his football instincts and relentless motor. He plays with an intensity and technique that projects well to college schemes, making him a versatile asset for any defensive coordinator.

The Transfer to Buford High School: A Strategic Move

Buford High School, located in Buford, Georgia, is one of the state’s premier football programs. Known for consistently competing for state titles, producing college recruits, and running a pro-style system, Buford offers Quinn a unique opportunity to elevate his game.

Why Transfer?

Several factors likely influenced Quinn’s decision to transfer:

• Higher Level of Competition: Buford competes against some of the toughest teams in Georgia, challenging Quinn to refine his skills against elite talent regularly.
• Greater Exposure: Buford’s high profile means more college scouts attend games, increasing Quinn’s visibility.
• Elite Coaching Staff: The program is known for developing athletes who succeed in college and beyond.
• Team Success and Culture: Playing for a winning program with a strong culture can help Quinn build championship experience, leadership skills, and football IQ.

What This Means for Quinn

By transferring to Buford, Quinn positions himself in a more competitive environment, which could accelerate his development and improve his chances of playing early in college. The move also signals his commitment to maximizing his potential and preparing for the next level.

Notre Dame’s Interest in Dre Quinn

Notre Dame has long been a powerhouse in college football, with a reputation for attracting and developing elite talent. The Fighting Irish have shown serious interest in Dre Quinn, seeing him as a key piece in bolstering their defensive front.

Why Notre Dame?

• Defensive Needs: Notre Dame seeks to enhance their pass rush and run defense, and Quinn’s skill set matches their defensive scheme.
• Player Development: Notre Dame’s coaching staff is respected for developing NFL-ready defensive linemen.
• Academic and Cultural Fit: Notre Dame’s emphasis on academics and character appeals to many recruits, including Quinn.
• Opportunity for Early Playing Time: With Notre Dame’s focus on player development, Quinn could compete for early snaps.

Ongoing Recruitment Efforts

Notre Dame’s recruiting staff has been actively communicating with Quinn, building a relationship with him and his family. Coaches have made in-person visits and extended official visit invitations. Quinn’s official visit schedule includes stops at Notre Dame and other major programs such as Clemson, Georgia, and Miami, giving him a chance to weigh his options.

The Recruiting Landscape: Other Schools In The Mix

While Notre Dame is a frontrunner, Quinn’s transfer has attracted more attention from other powerhouse programs. Some of the schools actively pursuing him include:

• Clemson: Known for its defensive prowess and recent success, Clemson offers Quinn a chance to compete for national championships.
• Georgia: The reigning national champions and a Georgia native, the Bulldogs are a tempting option for proximity and elite competition.
• Miami: With a revitalized program, Miami offers Quinn a chance to contribute to their defensive resurgence.
• Tennessee and Mississippi State: Both programs are recruiting aggressively and have schemes that fit Quinn’s abilities.

Quinn’s official visits over the coming months will be crucial in shaping his decision. The visits provide an opportunity for Quinn to assess campus life, meet teammates, and understand how he fits into each program’s vision.

What Quinn Brings to the Table

Dre Quinn offers a rare combination of traits:

• Size and Length: At 6-foot-4 with long arms, he can keep blockers at bay and reach for tackles.
• Athleticism: His speed and agility enable him to chase down plays sideline to sideline.
• Football IQ: Quinn understands leverage, gap assignments, and timing.
• Versatility: Capable of playing multiple positions along the defensive front.
• Work Ethic: Known for his commitment to training and improving each day.

His potential impact on any college defense is significant, making him a prized recruit.

How the Transfer Impacts Notre Dame and Quinn’s Future

Quinn’s transfer to Buford amplifies the recruitment narrative in several ways:

• Increased National Spotlight: Buford’s reputation means Quinn’s games will be heavily scouted.
• Better Competition: Challenging opponents will prepare him for the pace and physicality of college football.
• Stronger Recruiting Pitch: Notre Dame can now point to Quinn’s commitment to growth and playing in a competitive environment.
• Momentum: A strong senior season at Buford could catapult Quinn into the top tier of defensive recruits nationally.

For Notre Dame, landing Quinn would be a significant win, adding a versatile, high-ceiling defensive lineman to their roster.

What’s Next for Dre Quinn?

As Quinn settles into his new school and program, all eyes will be on his senior season. Key focus areas include:

• On-Field Performance: Consistency, impact plays, and leadership on defense.
• Official Visits: How Quinn evaluates programs during his visits this summer.
• Decision Timeline: Reports indicate Quinn aims to make his college commitment by late summer or early fall.

Fans and recruiters alike will be watching closely, as Quinn’s decision will shape his career and influence recruiting dynamics across the nation.

Dre Quinn’s transfer to Buford High School is more than a change of scenery—it’s a strategic move designed to maximize his growth, exposure, and future success. As one of Notre Dame’s top defensive targets, this transition signals that Quinn is serious about competing at the highest level and preparing himself for a promising collegiate and possibly professional career.

Notre Dame, along with several other elite programs, will be watching closely as Quinn showcases his talent in the highly competitive environment of Georgia high school football. The months ahead promise to be an exciting journey for Dre Quinn, and his story is sure to be a highlight of the 2026 recruiting cycle.