On Monday, Notre Dame became the latest program to extend a scholarship offer to one of Ohio’s top prospects in the 2026 recruiting class.
Four-star safety Kaden Gebhardt of Olentangy High School shared the news on social media, adding the Irish to his growing list of suitors.
The 6-foot-2, 200-pound standout ranks among the nation’s top 20 safeties in the class, per the 247Sports composite. He already holds offers from powerhouse programs like Ohio State, Penn State, Clemson, and Wisconsin.
While Notre Dame may have arrived late to the race, it still has a legitimate shot. Gebhardt is based just outside Columbus, keeping South Bend within reasonable distance, and the Irish have a strong track record of developing elite secondary talent.
However, if Notre Dame wants to seriously contend for his commitment, getting him on campus for a visit sooner rather than later will be crucial.
