Marcus Freeman has turned Notre Dame into one of the most active programs on the recruiting trail. With the 2026 class nearly complete, Freeman and his staff have shifted their energy toward 2027 prospects, and early signs suggest momentum is building.
That push is expected to grow even stronger during this weekend’s home opener against Texas A&M. The matchup at Notre Dame Stadium provides a chance to impress several five-star visitors, including some of the top-ranked players in the nation.
Among the headliners is Fort Lauderdale (Fla.) St. Thomas Aquinas offensive tackle Mark Matthews. The 6-foot-6, 270-pound lineman is rated as the No. 7 overall player, the No. 2 offensive tackle, and the No. 2 prospect in Florida for 2027, according to the 247 Sports Composite.
Matthews, who plays alongside Irish target Julius Jones Jr., praised what he has seen so far.
“I like just the school and the culture behind Notre Dame,” Matthews told Rivals. “Also Coach Rudolph when offering me explained a lot of things to me which made me feel very welcome. I also like Coach Freeman a lot as well.”
Another high-profile visitor is Roswell (Ga.) Blessed Trinity Catholic defensive end DJ Jacobs. At 6-5 and 220 pounds, Jacobs holds more than 40 offers and ranks as the No. 11 overall player in his class. His connection with Irish quarterback commit Teddy Jarrard could be a significant factor in Notre Dame’s favor.
The secondary will also be a focal point. Fort Mill (S.C.) Catawba Ridge cornerback Joshua Dobson, viewed by some as the nation’s best defensive back, is scheduled to visit.
The 6-1, 175-pound defender sits at No. 5 overall in the Composite. Bellflower (Calif.) St. John Bosco cornerback Jailen Hill, a teammate of current linebacker Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa, will also be on campus.
For Freeman, the formula remains consistent: relationships, culture, and high-profile weekends that showcase Notre Dame’s unique edge.
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