Latest Intel on five-star athlete Joey O’Brien as Notre Dame, Oregon, Penn State, and Clemson battle it out heading toward commitment day
Joey O’Brien, a 6’4″, 185-pound athlete from La Salle College High School in Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania, is one of the most coveted prospects in the 2026 recruiting class. His versatility as both a wide receiver and defensive back has drawn attention from top programs across the country. As his commitment day approaches, O’Brien’s recruitment has intensified, with Notre Dame, Penn State, Oregon, and Clemson emerging as the primary contenders.
O’Brien’s recruitment gained significant momentum following his standout performances during the 2024 season. On the defensive side, he recorded 36 tackles, 13 pass breakups, and an interception. Offensively, he amassed 68 receptions for 1,029 yards and 12 touchdowns, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities. These impressive statistics have solidified his status as a top-tier recruit and have led to offers from numerous prestigious programs, including Notre Dame, Penn State, Oregon, and Clemson .
Notre Dame has positioned itself as a strong contender in O’Brien’s recruitment. The coaching staff has made concerted efforts to build a relationship with O’Brien, emphasizing the program’s commitment to developing players both on and off the field. O’Brien’s visit to Notre Dame’s campus left a lasting impression, as he praised the high-intensity practices and the strong connections between coaches and players . The Fighting Irish are set to host O’Brien for an official visit in June, further solidifying their position in the race .
Penn State has also been a significant player in O’Brien’s recruitment. As an in-state prospect, O’Brien has made multiple visits to Happy Valley, including attending games against Illinois, Ohio State, and Maryland. The Nittany Lions’ coaching staff, including safeties coach Anthony Poindexter and associate head coach Terry Smith, have been actively involved in O’Brien’s recruitment, emphasizing the opportunity to play in front of a passionate home crowd and the program’s rich football tradition .
Oregon has emerged as a dark horse in O’Brien’s recruitment. The Ducks’ coaching staff has been in consistent contact with O’Brien, highlighting the program’s innovative approach to player development and the chance to compete in the Pac-12 Conference. O’Brien is scheduled to visit Oregon later this week, which could play a pivotal role in his decision-making process .
Clemson, a program known for its elite football pedigree, has also made a strong impression on O’Brien. The Tigers’ coaching staff extended an offer to O’Brien following an unofficial visit, and he is set to attend an official visit from May 30 to June 1 . Clemson’s reputation for developing top-tier defensive backs and competing at the highest level has resonated with O’Brien, making them a formidable contender in his recruitment.
As O’Brien approaches his commitment day, the competition among these four programs remains fierce. Each school offers unique opportunities and advantages that align with O’Brien’s aspirations both on and off the field. His decision will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the trajectory of his collegiate football career.
Joey O’Brien’s recruitment is one of the most closely watched storylines in the 2026 class. With Notre Dame, Penn State, Oregon, and Clemson vying for his commitment, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining where this elite athlete will continue his football journey. Regardless of his decision, O’Brien’s future in football appears exceptionally promising.
