Five Must-Get Recruits for Notre Dame’s 2026 Class
Notre Dame football continues to build for the future, and the 2026 recruiting class presents a crucial opportunity for the Fighting Irish to secure top-tier talent. Head coach Marcus Freeman has already shown his ability to bring in elite prospects, but landing the right recruits in this cycle could help shape the program’s success for years to come.
With the competition heating up in college football, the Irish must focus on adding playmakers on both sides of the ball to maintain their standing among the nation’s elite. Here are five key recruits that Notre Dame must prioritize in the 2026 class:
1. Bear McWhorter (IOL, Cass High School, GA)
A dominant force in the trenches, McWhorter is a 6-foot-3, 308-pound interior offensive lineman who ranks among the top in his position. Notre Dame has long been known for producing NFL-caliber offensive linemen, and McWhorter could be the next great name on that list. Landing him would solidify the Irish’s offensive front for years to come.
2. Julian Lewis (QB, Carrollton High School, GA)
The quarterback position is the foundation of any elite program, and Lewis is a name to watch. Already considered one of the best in the 2026 class, his ability to make quick decisions and his strong arm would make him a perfect fit in Notre Dame’s offense. Freeman and his staff must do everything possible to keep Lewis in their sights.
3. Zamir Johnson (EDGE, St. Frances Academy, MD)
Notre Dame’s defense thrives on relentless pass rushers, and Johnson fits that mold perfectly. At 6-foot-5 and 245 pounds, he has the size, speed, and motor to disrupt opposing offenses. Adding him would bolster the Irish’s defensive front and give them a future star to build around.
4. Kaden Reynolds (WR, Mater Dei, CA)
The Irish have been searching for elite playmakers at wide receiver, and Reynolds brings the explosive athleticism they need. A deep threat with elite route-running ability, he would give the Notre Dame offense a true weapon capable of stretching the field and making game-changing plays.
5. Malik Carter (CB, IMG Academy, FL)
Notre Dame’s secondary could use a shutdown corner, and Carter has all the tools to be that player. With excellent instincts, speed, and coverage skills, he could develop into a lockdown defender and a leader in the Irish secondary.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 class presents a critical opportunity for Notre Dame to take another step toward competing for a national championship. Landing these five key recruits would solidify the team’s foundation and put them in a strong position moving forward. With Marcus Freeman at the helm, the Irish have a real chance to make noise on the recruiting trail and set themselves up for long-term success.
Will Notre Dame get these top targets? Only time will tell, but Irish fans should keep a close eye on the recruiting battles ahead.
