Jordan Faison has made quite the journey at Notre Dame, evolving from a dual-sport athlete to a pivotal leader on the football field. Once balancing both football and lacrosse, Faison now dedicates himself entirely to the gridiron, and his impact is felt far beyond his stats. His teammates and coaches, including wide receiver coach Mike Brown, have taken note of his exceptional leadership qualities.
Brown recently shared his admiration for Faison, emphasizing, “The player is the player, but more important than that is just his leadership and the way guys look up to him. He’s a great example for the young guys in how he goes about his business, how he studies film, how he works, how he practices. All of those things.”
Faison, while occasionally nostalgic about his lacrosse days, is laser-focused on football. He’s aware that Notre Dame’s championship aspirations require his undivided attention.
Reflecting on his decision, Faison mentioned, “Going out there and watching the lacrosse games, it hurts a little bit not being out there with your brothers. You miss a sport you used to play, but I had to make a decision.”
The choice to concentrate solely on football wasn’t just about passion; it was a strategic move to manage recurring injuries that had plagued him. This spring, Faison reports feeling healthier, setting the stage for an impressive 2026 season, building on his standout 2025 performance.
Last season, Faison led the Irish with 49 receptions, racking up 640 yards and four touchdowns. His decision to focus exclusively on football last spring seems to have paid off.
Coach Brown sees Faison stepping into a new leadership role, not only elevating his own game but also mentoring younger players. As Notre Dame gears up for the fall, Faison’s growth and influence promise to be a game-changer. Big things are indeed on the horizon.