As we move deeper into February, Notre Dame’s 2027 recruiting class is shaping up to be one of the strongest in the country. The Fighting Irish currently sit at No. 4 in the 247Sports Composite Team Recruiting Rankings - a testament to the work Marcus Freeman and his staff have put in early on the trail. With seven commitments already locked in, Notre Dame is building a foundation that blends high-upside talent with positional versatility.
Let’s take a closer look at how this class has come together so far - and who might be next.
Early Building Blocks
The first two prospects to jump onboard set the tone for what’s becoming a well-rounded class. Sean Kraft, a three-star prospect who committed back in June, was the first name on the board.
He was followed in September by Richie Flanigan, a two-way lineman who brings flexibility on either side of the trenches. Flanigan’s ability to contribute on both the offensive and defensive lines gives Notre Dame options - and Freeman’s staff has shown it values that kind of versatility.
The Fall Surge
Things really picked up in the fall. Notre Dame landed three Top247 prospects in a span of just over a month, starting with offensive tackle James Halter in late October. Halter adds much-needed talent to the offensive line group - a unit that, as of now, only has one true commit in the class.
A couple weeks later, the Irish secured a commitment from safety Khalil Terry, a physical and instinctive defender who fits the mold of the modern safety - someone who can cover ground, play downhill, and match up in space. Then came linebacker Amarri Irvin, who brings sideline-to-sideline speed and a nose for the football. Irvin’s game is built on range and anticipation, and he projects as a key piece in the middle of Notre Dame’s future defense.
December’s Defensive Haul
As strong as the fall was, December might’ve been even more impactful - especially in the secondary. The Irish added two Top247 cornerbacks in Ace Alston and Xavier Hasan, both of whom bring elite traits to the table. Alston is a smooth cover corner with ball skills and fluid hips, while Hasan plays with a physical edge and isn’t afraid to get involved in run support.
Landing two high-end corners in one class is no small feat, and it speaks to the staff’s ability to close on top targets late in the year. With Alston and Hasan in the fold, Notre Dame’s defensive backfield of the future is starting to come into focus.
What’s Next?
While the Irish have done well to address several key areas, there’s still work to be done - particularly along the offensive line. With only one true OL commit so far, expect Notre Dame to stay aggressive in pursuing more big men up front. The staff has its eyes on several targets, and adding depth and talent in the trenches remains a priority.
Freeman and his staff are building a class that not only ranks highly on paper but also fits the identity they’re trying to establish in South Bend - tough, versatile, and loaded with upside. With months to go before signing day, Notre Dame is in a strong position, and the 2027 class could end up being one of the program’s best in recent memory.
Keep an eye on the offensive line board - that’s likely where the next wave of movement will come.