Notre Dame Joins the Race for 2027 WR Antayvious Ellis

Notre Dame is set on finding top-tier playmakers at wide receiver, and they made that clear on Pot of Gold Day by extending offers to some of the best in the 2027 class. One of the biggest names to receive an Irish offer was Fort Worth (Texas) Crowley standout Antayvious “Tay” Ellis, a dynamic pass catcher who’s already turning heads early in his recruitment.

At 6-0, 170 pounds, Ellis has the blend of speed, hands, and playmaking ability that makes him one of the most intriguing prospects in the country. Rated as a four-star recruit and the No. 125 player in the nation, per On3, Ellis has already stacked up an impressive list of offers—including the Irish, Ohio State, Texas, Texas A&M, Oregon, USC, and plenty more.

Turn on Ellis’ tape, and it’s easy to see why top programs are lining up to get him on campus. He’s explosive, smooth in and out of his breaks, and has the ability to blow past defenders on deep routes or turn a short catch into a big gain. His hands are strong, and he plays with a natural confidence that you love to see in a young receiver.

Notre Dame is looking for game-changers at wideout, and Ellis fits the mold. Getting in early on his recruitment could be key as the Irish look to make a strong impression.

The Irish made their move on Pot of Gold Day, and Ellis took notice. While still learning about Notre Dame, he’s already intrigued by what the program has to offer—especially when it comes to life beyond football.

On Notre Dame’s recruiting pitch:
“Really just developing our relationship and how strong academically they are.”

On a potential visit to South Bend:
“Yes, but I really don’t know when yet.”

On Notre Dame wide receivers coach Mike Brown and the staff:
“I really don’t know too much about him yet.”

What interests him about Notre Dame:
“Their strong academics and life after football. I really wanna see more of the football part and the ways they can develop me into a first-round pick.”

On other schools standing out in his recruitment:
“Everyone is in competition to land a commitment from me.”

Ellis’ recruitment is still in the early stages, but there’s no doubt he’s going to be one of the most highly sought-after receivers in the 2027 class. With an offer list already filled with powerhouse programs, Notre Dame will have to work hard to separate itself from the pack.

The good news? The Irish are in the mix early, and that can go a long way in a high-profile recruitment like this one. If Ellis makes the trip to South Bend, the Irish will have a real shot to make a lasting impression.

For now, Notre Dame has thrown its hat in the ring. But with Ellis’ talent and upside, expect this to be a heavyweight recruiting battle all the way to the finish line.

Ellis holds offers from Notre Dame, Ohio State, Texas, Texas A&M, Oregon, USC, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Ole Miss, SMU, Miami, TCU, Texas Tech, Baylor, Arizona State, Nebraska, Arkansas, Houston, Pittsburgh, Washington State, Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Duke, and Oklahoma State.