Devin Fitzgerald commits to Notre Dame continuing family legacy
Notre Dame’s 2026 recruiting class strength and rankings
Devin Fitzgerald is the 24th member of Notre Dame’s incoming class, which currently ranks fourth in ESPN’s 2026 recruiting class rankings. His addition strengthens a wide receiver group that already includes four-star recruit Kaydon Finley, the son of ex-NFL tight end Jermichael Finley, and four-star outside linebacker Thomas Davis Jr., son of former NFL All-Pro Thomas Davis. Notre Dame’s ability to secure multiple NFL bloodline recruits highlights their recruiting momentum and strategic focus on players with strong football pedigrees. The Fighting Irish have demonstrated consistency in recruitment, with Fitzgerald noting Notre Dame’s interest dating back to his freshman year.
Larry Fitzgerald’s college and NFL achievements set high expectations
Larry Fitzgerald, Devin’s father, was a standout college player at Pittsburgh before entering the NFL. He recorded over 1, 000 receiving yards in both college seasons, won the Biletnikoff Award in 2003, and finished second in Heisman Trophy voting. Drafted third overall in 2004, Larry spent 17 seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, earning first-team All-Pro honors in 2008 and retiring second all-time in NFL receptions (1, 432) and receiving yards (17, 492), trailing only Jerry Rice. Devin will enter Notre Dame with the expectation to follow in these footsteps, supported by his father’s guidance and experience throughout the recruiting process.
Coaching influence and early playing opportunities at Notre Dame
Wide receivers coach Mike Brown played a crucial role in recruiting Devin Fitzgerald, emphasizing the potential for early playing time. Brown, who played in the NFL from 2012 to 2015, has a long-standing relationship with Devin, building trust that contributed to the commitment. Devin expressed confidence in Notre Dame’s plan for him to contribute early in his college career, a key factor that differentiates the Irish’s offer from others. This approach aligns with Notre Dame’s trend of developing young talent quickly, evidenced by their 2026 class roster and recruiting success.
Notre Dame’s recruiting outlook and future wide receiver class additions
Devin Fitzgerald joins a growing list of wide receivers committed to Notre Dame for 2026, including Bubba Frazier and Dylan Faison, both three-star recruits. The Irish may further bolster their receiving corps with Brayden ROIinson, ranked No. 293 in ESPN’s 2026 class, who is deciding among Arizona, Miami, and Notre Dame. This continued influx of talent demonstrates Notre Dame’s strategic recruiting focus on the wide receiver position, aiming to sustain offensive production and build a deep, competitive roster moving forward. The Fighting Irish’s recruiting class currently ranks among the nation’s best, reflecting successful targeting of high-potential athletes.
