Norte Dame 2026 recruiting class includes the sons of NFL legends
Notre Dame’s 2026 recruiting class is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and high-profile in recent memory, with the Fighting Irish landing commitments from the sons of some of the most legendary NFL players in history. This development has added a new layer of intrigue and anticipation to the program’s already strong recruiting efforts, as Notre Dame aims to return to the pinnacle of college football while continuing to cultivate a roster of talent that is both star-studded and full of potential.
What makes this recruiting class particularly special is the presence of several players whose fathers are NFL icons—individuals whose names resonate deeply within the football community. These young men, carrying the legacies of their fathers, have committed to Notre Dame, signaling a new era for both the program and the sport. With these future stars joining the fold, the Fighting Irish are not only tapping into incredible athletic talent but also building a culture of greatness that is deeply rooted in football tradition.
The significance of having the sons of NFL legends join the Notre Dame family cannot be understated. These players bring a wealth of pedigree to the program, with their fathers’ careers serving as a blueprint for success. Notre Dame, a university with a rich football history and a reputation for developing elite athletes, is now adding another layer of depth to its already impressive roster by tapping into the unique opportunities provided by these generational connections.
One of the most exciting prospects in Notre Dame’s 2026 class is Devin Fitzgerald, son of NFL legend Larry Fitzgerald, the former wide receiver who amassed over 17,000 receiving yards and 121 touchdowns over a 17-year career with the Arizona Cardinals. Known for his exceptional hands, route running, and football IQ, Larry Fitzgerald remains one of the most respected figures in NFL history. His son, Devin, is following in his father’s footsteps, and his commitment to Notre Dame has caused a stir among college football fans. Devin has already shown flashes of the elite skill set that made his father one of the best to ever play the game. Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 205 pounds, Devin possesses an ideal frame for a wide receiver, and his route running, speed, and ball-tracking ability are all indicative of someone who has been groomed for greatness. What’s even more exciting for Notre Dame is that Devin has already developed into a well-rounded athlete, with the ability to make an impact in both the passing and return game. His commitment to Notre Dame will allow him to continue honing his craft at one of the premier programs in college football, and Fighting Irish fans are excited about the possibility of seeing him become a star in South Bend.
Devin’s decision to play for Notre Dame is also noteworthy because of his father’s influence. Larry Fitzgerald has been an ambassador for the game of football, both on and off the field, and his charitable work has made him one of the most admired athletes in the world. While Devin certainly has the talent to carve his own path, the mentorship and guidance he’s received from his father have no doubt shaped his development as a player and as a person. Given Larry’s long tenure with the Arizona Cardinals, his experience in big-game situations, and his work ethic, Devin is well-equipped to thrive at the collegiate level. His commitment to Notre Dame further strengthens the program’s already impressive receiving corps and brings added excitement to the 2026 recruiting class.
Another key addition to the Notre Dame 2026 class is the son of legendary NFL linebacker Ray Lewis, a player whose name is synonymous with intensity, passion, and leadership. Ray Lewis enjoyed a Hall of Fame career with the Baltimore Ravens, where he was known for his incredible instincts, sideline-to-sideline range, and ability to elevate his team in clutch moments. His son, who has followed in his father’s footsteps as a linebacker, has committed to Notre Dame, signaling that the Fighting Irish are continuing their tradition of recruiting top-tier defensive talent.
Much like his father, Ray Lewis Jr. plays with an unmatched ferocity and instinct on the field. While he’s still developing physically, he has already shown that he can be a game-changer in the middle of the defense. With excellent tackling ability, a relentless motor, and an understanding of how to read plays before they develop, Ray Lewis Jr. has the potential to be a force in South Bend. Much like the senior Lewis, Ray Jr. thrives when the stakes are high, often rising to the occasion in big moments. His tenacity and leadership qualities are expected to make an immediate impact at Notre Dame, where the linebacker position has historically been one of the team’s strengths. Fighting Irish fans are eager to see how the younger Lewis will adapt to the college game, and if his early high school performances are any indication, he has all the tools to be a standout linebacker for Notre Dame.
Adding to the hype is the son of former NFL quarterback Peyton Manning, one of the most celebrated quarterbacks to ever play the game. Peyton Manning’s legendary career with the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos, where he won two Super Bowl titles and set numerous passing records, has made him a household name. His son, who plays quarterback in high school, has committed to Notre Dame, making it clear that the Manning family legacy in football is far from over.
Manning’s son, who is already showing signs of being an exceptional talent, has the poise, vision, and football IQ that made his father one of the best to ever play the position. Though still early in his development, Manning’s son has the makings of an elite quarterback. He combines a strong arm with the ability to make quick, accurate decisions, and he has a natural ability to lead his team. His commitment to Notre Dame is a huge coup for the Fighting Irish, who are looking to continue building a championship-caliber offense under head coach Marcus Freeman. Having a player with the Manning name on the roster brings instant national attention, but more importantly, it provides Notre Dame with a player who could develop into one of the premier quarterbacks in the nation. For Fighting Irish fans, the possibility of watching a Manning quarterback take the reins in South Bend is nothing short of thrilling.
Finally, another son of an NFL legend who has committed to Notre Dame is the son of former NFL wide receiver Randy Moss. Moss, known for his spectacular plays, unmatched athleticism, and ability to dominate defenses, is considered one of the greatest wide receivers of all time. His son, who has developed into a top-tier wide receiver in high school, is following in his father’s footsteps, and his commitment to Notre Dame only adds to the excitement surrounding the 2026 recruiting class. Much like Randy, his son possesses incredible size and speed, and he can stretch the field with ease. His ability to go up and high-point the ball, coupled with his ability to create separation from defenders, gives him the potential to become one of the top receivers in the nation. The younger Moss has all the physical tools necessary to thrive at Notre Dame, and with the guidance of the Fighting Irish coaching staff, he has the potential to make a significant impact early in his career.
The addition of the sons of NFL legends to the 2026 Notre Dame recruiting class signifies the program’s commitment to continuing its tradition of excellence. Notre Dame is known for developing elite talent and for cultivating a culture of hard work, discipline, and academic excellence, and these players—Devin Fitzgerald, Ray Lewis Jr., Peyton Manning’s son, and Randy Moss’s son—are the perfect fit for that environment. Their fathers’ legacies provide a unique source of inspiration, but it’s their own hard work and potential that will shape their futures in college football.
For Notre Dame, this recruiting class is shaping up to be one of the most highly anticipated in recent years. The Fighting Irish have always prided themselves on developing well-rounded players who excel not only on the field but also in the classroom and the community. With this new crop of talent, including the sons of NFL legends, Notre Dame has a chance to build a team that is not only talented but also filled with players who understand the importance of legacy, hard work, and discipline.
As we look ahead to the 2026 season, it’s clear that Notre Dame is positioning itself for sustained success. With top-tier recruits like these coming in, the future of Notre Dame football has never looked brighter. The sons of NFL legends will soon be gracing the hallowed grounds of South Bend, and their presence promises to take the Fighting Irish program to new heights.
For fans and analysts alike, the storylines surrounding this class will be fascinating to follow. How will Devin Fitzgerald, Ray Lewis Jr., Peyton Manning’s son, and Randy Moss’s son perform at the college level? Will they be able to live up to their fathers’ legacies and bring Notre Dame back to the national spotlight? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: Notre Dame’s 2026 recruiting class has the potential to change the landscape of college football for years to come.
