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Predicting the next five commitments for Notre Dame following DT target Alister Vallejo opting for the Michigan Wolverines

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Ryan Roberts | Last updated Jun 10, 2025 10:22 PM ET

The Michigan Wolverines were able to beat out Notre Dame for talented 2026 Liberty Hill (Texas) High School defensive tackle Alister Vallejo. It was a tough blow to head coach Marcus Freeman and the Fighting Irish staff, but they do have the ability to recover quickly. There is a whole lot of talent remaining on the board.

Here are my predictions for the next five commitments in the 2026 class for Notre Dame. Some are more hopeful than others, but regardless, the Irish have a chance with each. This could be a strong finish, but the staff will need to close accordingly.

ATH Joey O’Brien - Glenside (Pa.) La Salle College

I still have my doubts about whether Notre Dame can close on O'Brien, this recruitment continues to be wide open. They have the last official visit before the Pennsylvania star makes his decision on June 20, and I think that matters a lot. Call it a bit of blind hope, but I think the Irish can lock down the 6-4, 190-pound five-star athlete.

TE Evan Jacobson - Waukee (Iowa) High School

The 6-7, 220-pound pass catcher brings back a lot of memories of former Irish star Kyle Rudolph. That frame and upside to play inline would be a welcomed addition to a tight end room that desperately needs more talent. Notre Dame continues to be in a very good spot with Jacobson, and should be able to close this month.

CB Khary Adams - Towson (Md.) Loyola Blakefield

The 6-2, 175-pound cover man is one of the absolute best in the 2026 recruiting class. Notre Dame has been in a pretty good spot for a while now, but things have been really trending recently. This would be a massive potential victory for Notre Dame if they are able to close.

S Nick Reddish - Charlotte (N.C.) Independence

Now that Reddish is back healthy, Notre Dame has been pushing hard for him. This one feels like a matter of when, and not as much if. The talented safety values the Irish program tremendously, and feels like an easy fit.

WR Devin Fitzgerald - Phoenix (Ariz.) Brophy Prep

This is somewhat of a pessimistic view, but I have my doubts about Notre Dame being able to close on top target Kaydon Finley. If the Irish is able to close on Texas speedster Jayden Warren, there is still at least one spot remaining. The program has valued NFL bloodlines in the past, and the son of Larry Fitzgerald feels like a bet this staff is willing to take.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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