Texas Defensive Lineman Alister Vallejo Set to Visit Notre Dame Ahead Of Commitment Date

Notre Dame has already put together an impressive defensive line class in the 2026 cycle, but they’re not done yet. The Irish are hoping to close on talented defensive tackle Alister Vallejo, who is set to make his first trip to campus.

The 6-3, 310-pound prospect out of Liberty Hill (Texas) is one of the most coveted interior defensive linemen left on the board for the Irish, and he’s confirmed with Irish Breakdown that he’ll be in South Bend for a visit from June 1–4. Even more importantly, Vallejo shared that he’ll be making his college decision on June 10, shortly after wrapping up his trips.

“I’m excited,” Vallejo said about visiting Notre Dame. “I prefer the one-on-one experience. I’m committing June 10.”

Vallejo is currently ranked as the No. 203 overall player and the No. 32 defensive lineman in the country, according to 247Sports. He’s a tough, physical presence in the middle who plays with great leverage, active hands, and a motor that never stops. He commands attention from opposing offensive lines and has the ability to anchor the middle or create disruption in the backfield.

Notre Dame extended an offer earlier this year and has made him a top priority ever since. Defensive line coach Al Washington is leading the charge, and he’s left a strong impression on the Texas standout.

“Awesome — he’s a great man,” Vallejo said of Washington. “The culture of ND for sure was his main pitch.”

That message seems to be resonating. Vallejo said he’s thankful for the opportunity to be recruited by Notre Dame and is eager to learn more during his time on campus.

“I want to know what it feels like in person,” Vallejo said. “If I can see myself living there.”

Vallejo’s interest in the Irish comes at a time when the staff is putting together what could be one of the best defensive line hauls of the Marcus Freeman era. Notre Dame already holds commitments from three talented linemen: Rodney Dunham, Ebenezer Ewetade, and Tiki Hola. Dunham and Ewetade bring speed and athleticism off the edge, while Hola gives Notre Dame a strong interior presence. Adding Vallejo to the impressive group would take it another level.

His visit this weekend will be a critical moment in his recruitment, and it presents the Irish with a golden opportunity to close strong.

“It’s a big opportunity I’m thankful for most definitely,” he said.

With a clear timeline and a strong group of contenders, Vallejo’s recruitment is entering its final phase — and Notre Dame will get one of the last chances to close on the talented prospect.

Vallejo holds offers from Notre Dame, Michigan, Ole Miss, Kansas, Oregon State, Houston, SMU, Cal, and Oklahoma State.