Notre Dame Football Gains a Star Recruit with NFL Roots
Devin Fitzgerald, a standout wide receiver from Phoenix Brophy College Prep, has chosen Notre Dame over strong contenders like Clemson, Stanford, and UCLA.
A Star Recruit with NFL Legacy
Fitzgerald is not just any recruit; he's the son of NFL legend Larry Fitzgerald, an 11-time Pro Bowler. This makes him the second NFL legacy recruit to join Notre Dame in recent days, following Kaydon Finley, son of former Green Bay Packers tight end Jermichael Finley.
A Promising 2026 Class
The 2026 class is shaping up to be something special. With Fitzgerald on board, Notre Dame now has 24 commits, including:
- Four-star linebacker Thomas Davis Jr.
- Wide receivers Bubba Frazier and Dylan Faison
The Irish are currently ranked in the top five nationally for this recruiting cycle.
Why Notre Dame?
Fitzgerald emphasized the importance of relationships, highlighting connections with current players and coaches. He played with freshman cornerback Cree Thomas in high school and was impressed by the shared goals among the recruits.
Impressive Stats and Versatility
Fitzgerald's stats speak for themselves:
- 52 catches for 720 yards and 9 touchdowns last season.
- A versatile player, capable of playing both outside and in the slot.
He sees himself fitting perfectly into Notre Dame's offense, potentially replacing Jaden Greathouse.
The Recruiting Process
The recruiting process was thorough. Fitzgerald visited all four of his finalists and several other schools. But it was his fourth visit to Notre Dame that sealed the deal. The camaraderie among the recruits left a lasting impression.
Looking Ahead
Fitzgerald is excited about the future. He believes Notre Dame is on the rise, with a strong defense and a promising offense. He's looking forward to contributing to the team's success and winning a national championship.