Class of 2026 wide receiver Devin Fitzgerald, son of NFL legend Larry Fitzgerald, has announced his commitment to the University of Notre Dame. The announcement on Saturday night marks a significant addition to Notre Dame’s already impressive recruiting class. Fitzgerald, a three-star recruit from Brophy Prep in Arizona, is currently ranked as the 71st wide receiver prospect in his class by ESPN. He chose Notre Dame over UCLA, becoming the 24th member of the Fighting Irish’s incoming class, which ranks fourth in ESPN’s latest 2026 recruiting class rankings.
Fitzgerald’s decision to join Notre Dame comes after a standout junior season where he recorded 52 receptions for 720 yards and nine touchdowns. Despite Notre Dame’s late scholarship offer in May, Fitzgerald noted that the university had been a consistent presence in his recruitment since his freshman year. “I’ve developed into a better ballplayer and they really think I’m going to turn into a great player,” Fitzgerald told ESPN. “I’ve known Coach Brown since I was five years old. He’s shown me that I can come in, step up and play early. That’s their plan with me.”
Family Legacy and Recruitment Journey
Devin Fitzgerald’s commitment to Notre Dame carries the weight of a storied family legacy. His father, Larry Fitzgerald, is one of the most celebrated wide receivers in NFL history. Larry played college football at the University of Pittsburgh, where he achieved over 1,000 receiving yards in each of his two seasons and finished second in Heisman Trophy voting in 2003. He was the third overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft and spent his entire 17-season career with the Arizona Cardinals, retiring as the second all-time leader in both receptions and receiving yards.
Having a father with such a distinguished career has been a guiding force for Devin. “Having my dad there to help me throughout the recruiting process has been great,” Devin Fitzgerald shared with ESPN. “He knows what’s important. You want to go somewhere you feel like you belong and where you fit in.”
Notre Dame’s Strategic Recruitment
Fitzgerald’s recruitment was spearheaded by Notre Dame’s wide receivers coach Mike Brown, a former NFL player himself. Brown’s relationship with Fitzgerald dates back to Devin’s childhood, providing a foundation of trust and familiarity. Brown’s NFL experience and vision for Fitzgerald’s development played a crucial role in the young receiver’s decision.
Fitzgerald joins a growing list of recruits with NFL pedigrees committing to Notre Dame. The 2026 class also includes the son of former Carolina Panthers All-Pro Thomas Davis and four-star wide receiver Kaydon Finley, son of former Green Bay Packers tight end Jermichael Finley. This trend highlights Notre Dame’s appeal to athletes with professional football backgrounds, emphasizing the program’s commitment to developing top-tier talent.
Impact on Notre Dame’s Recruiting Class
Devin Fitzgerald’s commitment strengthens Notre Dame’s wide receiver lineup, joining recruits like Kaydon Finley, Bubba Frazier, and Dylan Faison. The Irish are also in contention for Brayden Robinson, another highly ranked receiver, who is set to announce his decision soon. This influx of talent positions Notre Dame as a formidable force in college football, particularly in the passing game.
Notre Dame’s strategic recruitment efforts are evident in their ability to attract top talent and maintain a competitive edge in national rankings. The addition of players with NFL lineage not only enriches the team’s skillset but also enhances its reputation as a nurturing ground for future professional athletes.
Looking Ahead
As Devin Fitzgerald prepares to sign with Notre Dame later this year, the expectations are high for his collegiate career. His decision to follow in his father’s footsteps into major college football adds a layer of intrigue to his journey. With the support of his family and the guidance of experienced coaches, Fitzgerald is poised to make a significant impact on the field.
Notre Dame’s recruiting strategy, marked by securing athletes with strong football backgrounds, continues to pay dividends. As the 2026 class shapes up, the Fighting Irish are well-positioned to compete at the highest levels of college football, with Devin Fitzgerald playing a pivotal role in their future success.
