‘Maybe I Can Be the Next Dude’: Top Notre Dame Target Openly Expresses Interest in Joining Irish’s Rising 2025 Recruiting Class
The momentum behind Notre Dame football’s 2025 recruiting class continues to build—and now, it might be gaining even more star power.
In a recent interview at the Under Armour Future 50 Camp, one of the nation’s most highly coveted prospects sent a clear and public message about his admiration for the Fighting Irish. The four-star recruit, whose name is quickly becoming familiar to fans and recruiting analysts alike, didn’t hold back when asked about where Notre Dame sits among his top schools.
“They’ve got something special going on,” he said. “Maybe I can add or be the next dude to join their class.”
With that confident statement, the talented prospect became the latest elite player to openly express interest in joining Marcus Freeman’s surging recruiting operation in South Bend—a program that has already landed commitments from several top-100 talents and continues to compete nationally for blue-chip names.
This particular player’s profile—elite measurables, leadership traits, and national recognition—makes him the type of addition that could further elevate Notre Dame’s 2025 class from strong to truly elite. And his comments reflect a growing perception among high-level recruits: Notre Dame is not just in the conversation—they’re leading it.
A Rising Star Draws National Attention
The recruit in question, whom we’ll refer to as a four-star athlete for this discussion (pending public commitment), has been making waves across the national recruiting scene with dominant performances in camps, elite 7-on-7 play, and a standout junior season. He currently holds offers from more than 30 Power Five programs, including Georgia, Alabama, Michigan, Texas, Oregon, and Ohio State.
But despite the attention from perennial bluebloods, Notre Dame appears to hold a unique place in his recruitment. When asked what stands out about the Irish, the answer was clear.
“It’s the culture, the tradition, the education—it’s everything. Coach Freeman is different,” he said. “He keeps it real, and he’s building something that guys like me want to be part of.”
It’s not just lip service. According to multiple recruiting insiders, the interest between this prospect and Notre Dame is mutual—and growing stronger by the week.
Marcus Freeman’s Recruiting Machine Keeps Rolling
When Marcus Freeman took over as head coach in 2022, he made recruiting excellence a top priority. That mission has paid off. Notre Dame’s 2025 class already features a dynamic mix of elite prospects, including top-100 linebacker Kobe Clapper, four-star quarterback Deuce Knight, and explosive edge rusher George Wilson. The Irish are building from the inside out—stacking defensive playmakers while surrounding their quarterback of the future with offensive talent.
The message is clear: if you’re a competitor, a leader, and someone who values both football and academics, South Bend is the place to be.
And the message seems to be resonating. In an age of flashy NIL promises and transfer portal chaos, Notre Dame is focusing on development, stability, and brotherhood.
“They’re not just selling you a dream,” said the top target. “They’re showing you how they’ll help you grow as a man.”
A Visit Could Be the Turning Point
While no official commitment has been made, all signs point to a potential visit to South Bend in the coming weeks. The recruit has already spoken highly of previous conversations with Notre Dame staff and mentioned how impressed he’s been with the development of players currently in the program.
If he does make the trip, Notre Dame’s coaches are expected to roll out the red carpet.
“They love him,” a source close to the program said. “They see him as a perfect fit—not just for his skill set, but his mindset. He’s the kind of player who could be a captain one day.”
For Notre Dame fans, the idea of adding another versatile, high-character talent to a class already filled with future difference-makers is reason for excitement. The Irish haven’t just returned to recruiting prominence—they’re now fighting toe-to-toe with the nation’s best.
The Impact of Peer Recruiting
One of the most significant forces in modern recruiting is the influence of current commits. For Notre Dame, players like Deuce Knight and Kobe Clapper have been active on social media and behind the scenes, helping build relationships and encouraging elite prospects to join them in South Bend.
This target referenced that culture of brotherhood directly.
“I see those dudes working,” he said. “It makes me think—yeah, I could be the next one. I want to win with guys like that.”
It’s a sentiment that Freeman and his staff have cultivated intentionally: Notre Dame’s 2025 class is not just about collecting stars—it’s about building a championship team with chemistry, resilience, and shared purpose.
Why Notre Dame Stands Out
For years, Notre Dame has recruited well. But under Freeman, they’ve become a national recruiting powerhouse with a more modern identity. What makes Notre Dame uniquely appealing to many recruits is the balance it offers—elite football, elite education, and a community rooted in values that matter to both families and players.
The Irish have also revamped their facilities, adapted their NIL approach within NCAA regulations, and built a culture that develops players into NFL-ready pros and respected leaders.
Add to that the academic reputation, a passionate fanbase, and a coaching staff that’s young, energetic, and committed, and you begin to understand why high-profile targets are now eyeing South Bend more seriously than ever before.
“It’s bigger than football at Notre Dame,” the prospect said. “That’s what makes them different.”
Competition for His Commitment
While Notre Dame appears to be in strong standing, this player’s recruitment is far from over. SEC and Big Ten heavyweights are pushing hard, and multiple programs are expected to receive visits throughout the fall. Schools like Alabama and Georgia offer tradition and exposure, while Oregon and USC offer branding and proximity.
Still, the fact that Notre Dame is being mentioned so prominently, and with such enthusiasm, is a testament to Freeman’s recruiting impact.
Recruiting insiders believe the Irish have a real shot if the visit happens and goes well. One analyst close to the situation said, “If Notre Dame can get him on campus again and show him the family environment, I think they’ll be tough to beat.”
What Comes Next
As the 2025 recruiting cycle enters a critical stretch, all eyes will be on how Notre Dame closes out the class. Adding a prospect like this one—who not only brings elite athleticism but also a personality that fits the program’s identity—could be a game-changer.
For his part, the recruit seems to be enjoying the process, but there’s no question he’s paying close attention to how Notre Dame continues to recruit and develop.
“I’m watching,” he said with a grin. “They’re doing big things. I might want in on that.”
With official visits on the horizon and relationships continuing to build, the Irish have a chance to secure yet another blue-chip talent—one who could help define the program’s future.
Notre Dame’s recruiting resurgence is no longer a quiet story. It’s national news—and players are noticing. The 2025 class already looks like one of the most well-rounded and culturally aligned groups in recent memory, and the chance to add another elite piece is very real.
As Marcus Freeman continues to prove he’s more than just a defensive mastermind—he’s a recruiter, a culture-builder, and a program leader—Notre Dame is becoming a destination again.
For this top target, the next few months could determine whether he chooses to follow the buzz—or become the next driving force behind it.
Either way, Notre Dame fans are watching. And hoping.
“Maybe I can be the next dude,” he said. That sentence alone has Irish Nation dreaming big.
