Brian Smith on Notre Dame Freshmen Ready To Make An Impact, 2027 Class Evaluation, and 2028 Recruiting Preview

Notre Dame’s highly touted 2026 recruiting class is already generating buzz in training camp, with Jonaz Walton, Ian Premer and several other true freshmen pushing to make an immediate impact for the Fighting Irish. Locked On Irish host Tyler Wojciak is joined by The Portal’s Brian Smith to break down Walton’s rapid rise, whether he can challenge Nolan James Jr. and Kedren Young for touches, and what to expect from Premer, Bubba Frazier, Devin Fitzgerald, Joey O’Brien, Teddy Jarrard and Noah Grubbs. Then, they evaluate Notre Dame’s loaded 2027 recruiting class, identify potential ranking risers, discuss its biggest strengths and weaknesses and the pursuit of Kaden Henderson before turning ahead to 2028, Notre Dame’s quarterback search and the massive recruiting opportunity surrounding the Miami game.