Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame land 6-foot-8 standout recruit over premier programs

This is a big win for Notre Dame, especially because Freeman and his staff were able to steal McKeogh right out from under Penn State's nose. PSU was a finalist for the four-star's commitment alongside the Texas Longhorns.

McKeogh took an official visit to Notre Dame this past weekend, and that in-person visit paid off in a big way for the Irish.

“I just feel that it’s where I fit in best,” McKeogh told On3 regarding his commitment. “All those guys that surround the program feel like me and are people who I can surround myself with for the next couple years. You are who you surround yourselves with and aside from the great academic and football prestige that’s what they’ve got.”

McKeogh was also smitten with the culture around Notre Dame. It's as historic of a program as they come, and that seems to have played a role in his decision. 

“The environment was really something to see,” McKeogh said. “From the beginning to the very end it was all about the tradition and energy of the program. Even all the players had that energy and had the idea of presenting the program that they believed in. The way Coach Freeman and Coach Rudolph can develop me is really exciting. “Playing alongside all those players and commits would be something I can see myself doing.”

McKeogh is ranked as the No. 20 offensive tackle in the 2026 class, according to the 247Sports Composite. With his commitment, the Fighting Irish now have 17 commitments in a class that's ranked No. 3 nationally.