As Notre Dame gears up for the 2026 season, spring practice is just around the corner, and there's a palpable buzz in South Bend. The spotlight today was on new defensive backs coach Aaron Henry and some of the top incoming freshmen, including offensive lineman Sullivan Garvin and wide receiver Kaydon Finley. Henry, who stepped in for Mike Mickens after his move to the Baltimore Ravens, brings a wealth of experience from his successful stint as Illinois' defensive coordinator.
Garvin and Finley are part of a stellar recruiting class, the best Notre Dame has seen in years. These early enrollees are diving headfirst into the college football experience, eager to make their mark. Despite the whirlwind start, they're finding their rhythm and are poised to contribute significantly this spring.
During today's press conference, Henry shared his motivations for joining Notre Dame. "Growth and development have always been key for me," Henry said. His conversations with head coach Marcus Freeman sealed the deal, highlighting Freeman's impressive track record and leadership qualities.
Garvin, focusing on physical strength, shared his spring goals. "I'm hitting the weights hard," he noted, detailing his recent power clean of 315 pounds. His aim is simple: to help the team in any capacity, whether on the scout team or elsewhere.
Finley, reflecting on the upcoming game at Lambeau Field, spoke about the personal significance. "Lambeau has always been special to me," he said, recalling childhood memories and the dream of playing at such an iconic venue.
As these young athletes embark on their journey, the excitement is tangible. Stay tuned to see how this talented group evolves throughout the spring.