Wide Receiver Deuce Olden II Enjoys Gameday Atmosphere, Culture at Notre Dame

Notre Dame’s staff is on the hunt for dynamic wide-receivers in the 2026 class. Wide receiver prospect Deuce Olden II made the trip to South Bend this past weekend for the Irish’s dominant 35-14 win over Virginia. The 5-11, 170-pound wideout from Huntington (W.Va.) showcases excellent speed, athleticism, and reliable hands, making him an intriguing prospect for the Irish.

Olden, who projects as a slot receiver at the college level, came away from the visit thoroughly impressed, describing it as a “10 out of 10 trip.” His experience on campus gave him a sense of the program's culture and reinforced Notre Dame’s place in his recruitment.

The Irish coaching staff sees Olden as a potential game-changer in the slot position, utilizing his speed to stretch the field vertically. Notre Dame’s recent success with wide receiver Jayden Harrison serves as a blueprint for Olden’s potential role in the offense.

“Their pitch is bringing me in as a slot receiver, stretching the field as a deep threat, similar to the way they use Jayden Harrison,” Olden explained.

It’s a role that suits Olden’s skill set perfectly, highlighting his ability to separate from defenders and make plays downfield.

Olden praised the Notre Dame coaching staff for their approachability and the welcoming atmosphere they created during his visit.

“The coaching staff is great, everyone is really easy to talk to,” Olden said. “I really like how when I came in for the visit, I was treated like family.”

This emphasis on building strong relationships resonated with Olden and added to his overall impression of the program.

While Olden’s recruitment is still taking shape, a few schools have already started to emerge as strong contenders.

“Definitely Notre Dame, Tennessee, and Penn State,” Olden said when asked about programs standing out in his recruitment.

Notre Dame’s ability to blend academic excellence with football success remains a key selling point as the Irish aim to position themselves as the leader in Olden's recruitment.

For Olden, one of the highlights of the visit was experiencing Notre Dame’s game-day atmosphere firsthand, especially under the lights at Notre Dame Stadium.

“It just felt like family,” Olden said. “I loved the brotherhood. That’s a really big thing when it comes to choosing my school. Also, being able to see ND play in person under the lights was amazing.”

As Olden’s recruitment continues to gain momentum, Notre Dame appears to have made a strong impression. The Irish’s pitch, combined with their focus on building relationships and providing a sense of family, aligns closely with what Olden is looking for in his future program.

With his speed and playmaking ability, Olden has the tools to become a difference-maker at the college level, and Notre Dame is clearly making a strong case to secure his commitment in the 2026 class.