Thomas Davis Jr. Commits to Notre Dame, Continuing a Proud NFL Legacy
WEDDINGTON, N.C. - There’s a new Davis headed to the next level, and the name already carries serious weight in football circles. On National Signing Day, Thomas “TJ” Davis Jr. - son of Carolina Panthers legend Thomas Davis Sr. - officially signed his national letter of intent to play college football at Notre Dame, one of the sport’s most storied programs.
For those who’ve followed high school football in Union County, TJ’s rise has been no surprise. The Weddington High School linebacker has been a standout on the field, showing the kind of instincts, speed, and leadership that mirror the traits his father displayed for over a decade in the NFL.
Thomas Davis Sr. carved out a remarkable 15-year NFL career, 13 of those seasons with the Panthers. He was the heart of Carolina’s defense, forming a ferocious linebacker duo with Luke Kuechly and earning three Pro Bowl selections along the way.
He remains the franchise’s all-time leader in tackles - a legacy that casts a long shadow. But TJ is already showing he’s more than just a familiar name.
Standing 6-foot-2, TJ brings a frame similar to his father’s, though he’s still developing physically. What stands out already is his football IQ and motor - the kind of traits that don’t show up in a stat sheet but pop off the tape.
Recruiting services have taken notice. 247 Sports rated him a four-star prospect and the No. 18 linebacker in the 2026 class.
ESPN also gave him four stars, slotting him slightly higher at No. 14 at his position.
His recruitment drew interest from across the college football landscape. According to ESPN, TJ had nearly two dozen scholarship offers from some of the biggest names in the sport - LSU, Michigan, Penn State, and Clemson among them.
He also had opportunities closer to home, with NC State, North Carolina, Wake Forest, and Charlotte all extending offers. One notable absence?
Georgia - his father’s alma mater - didn’t offer, making TJ’s decision to carve his own path even more compelling.
Notre Dame, though, won out. He committed to the Irish back in November 2024, and now it’s official.
He’ll join a program steeped in tradition, known for developing defensive talent and producing NFL-ready players. And he won’t be the only legacy on campus.
Notre Dame also signed two other sons of NFL veterans on Wednesday - wide receivers Devin Fitzgerald (son of Larry Fitzgerald) and Kaydon Finley (son of Jermichael Finley).
For TJ Davis, the journey is just beginning. The last name might open doors, but it’s clear he’s putting in the work to make his own mark. Notre Dame is getting a linebacker with pedigree, potential, and plenty of upside - and Panthers fans will no doubt be watching closely as the next Davis chapter unfolds.