Marcus Freeman isn’t just building a solid Notre Dame football program—he’s crafting a powerhouse. With the 2025 recruiting cycle in full swing and National Signing Day looming, the Fighting Irish are pushing to secure one final game-changing addition to their already impressive class.
Notre Dame’s recruiting efforts have been relentless under Freeman, and the results speak for themselves. The Irish have locked in 32 commitments, earning a top-15 national ranking per On3. But Freeman isn’t satisfied—he’s looking for elite playmakers who can turn Notre Dame into a perennial title contender.
And now, all eyes are on Kaydon Finley.
The NFL Legacy Who Could Transform Notre Dame’s Offense
Finley, a 4-star wide receiver from Aledo, Texas, isn’t just another blue-chip recruit—he’s football royalty. The son of former Green Bay Packers star Jermichael Finley, Kaydon has been lighting up defenses and proving he’s more than just a name.
Standing 6 feet tall and weighing 200 pounds, Finley is a dynamic receiver with elite route-running ability, explosive speed, and a knack for making highlight-reel catches. Last season, he delivered a jaw-dropping performance, racking up:
✅ 81 receptions
✅ 1,432 receiving yards
✅ 21 touchdowns
✅ Nine 100-yard games
That’s 17.7 yards per catch, making him one of the most dangerous deep threats in the nation.
His ability to stretch the field while also thriving in the short and intermediate game makes him the kind of versatile weapon that could redefine Notre Dame’s passing attack.
Freeman’s Full-Court Press for Finley
Notre Dame has made Finley their top priority, and he’s felt the love. He’s visited South Bend multiple times, developing strong relationships with Marcus Freeman and wide receivers coach Mike Brown.
Recruiting guru Steve Wiltfong described Finley as a “high-academic, high-IQ player who fits Notre Dame’s system perfectly,” and the Irish are leading the charge to secure his commitment.
While powerhouse programs are still in the mix, Notre Dame is making its final push to land what could be a program-altering recruit.
Not Just Finley: Notre Dame’s Star-Studded Recruiting Push
Freeman isn’t stopping at Finley. He’s also targeting two more elite prospects:
- Kobe Clapper (4-star LB, No. 24 overall)
- Tika Hola (4-star DL, No. 32 overall)
Both players could be on campus soon, adding to an already loaded class. But make no mistake—Finley is the crown jewel of this final recruiting stretch.
Freeman’s Hunt for a 4-Star Defensive Monster: Zahir Mathis
While Notre Dame is focused on adding firepower to its offense, Freeman is also strengthening his defensive front, with one of the most sought-after defensive linemen still in play—Zahir Mathis.
Mathis, a towering 6-foot-6, 225-pound pass-rushing machine from Philadelphia, has the kind of raw power and freakish athleticism that NFL scouts drool over. Ranked as the No. 5 defensive end in the nation and No. 37 overall, Mathis is still considering Ohio State, but Notre Dame is making a late charge to bring him to South Bend.
With a college-ready frame, elite speed, and overwhelming strength, Mathis would be a game-wrecking force in Freeman’s aggressive defense.
The Final Countdown: Will Freeman Close the Deal?
With National Signing Day fast approaching, Marcus Freeman is on the verge of a recruiting breakthrough that could shape the future of Notre Dame football.
- Will Finley commit and become Notre Dame’s next offensive superstar?
- Can Freeman pull off another defensive coup with Mathis?
- Will Notre Dame’s late push secure multiple top-50 recruits?
One thing is certain: The Irish are swinging for the fences—and if Freeman lands these final pieces, Notre Dame could be knocking on the door of college football’s elite sooner than expected.
