Notre Dame has officially extended an offer to one of the most intriguing young prospects in the 2026 recruiting class: Devin Fitzgerald, a talented athlete from Brophy College Preparatory in Phoenix, Arizona. If the last name sounds familiar, it should. Devin is the son of future Hall of Famer Larry Fitzgerald, one of the most prolific wide receivers in NFL history. The younger Fitzgerald is making a name for himself on the gridiron, and now he has an offer from one of college football’s most storied programs.
This development marks another chapter in the rich tradition of legacy athletes making waves in the world of college football. For Notre Dame, the offer is more than just a recruiting pitch; it’s a statement that the Irish are looking to not only build for the future but also deepen their ties to football royalty. And for Devin, it’s a testament to the work he’s putting in to carve his own path in the sport that made his father a household name.
At 6-foot-1 and around 185 pounds, Devin Fitzgerald brings a blend of athleticism, intelligence, and poise that reflects his elite football lineage. Though still early in his high school career, he’s already begun to turn heads with his strong arm, leadership skills, and football IQ. He plays quarterback for Brophy College Prep and has drawn attention for his ability to make difficult throws on the move, read defenses effectively, and operate a fast-paced offense with confidence and composure.
The offer from Notre Dame adds to what is expected to be a growing list of suitors for Fitzgerald, who has been rising steadily on recruiting boards. As the son of an NFL icon, there are inevitable comparisons, but Devin is focused on forging his own identity. While Larry Fitzgerald made his mark catching passes, Devin is most comfortable delivering them. It’s a twist of fate that makes this story all the more captivating.
Sources close to the Notre Dame program have indicated that the Irish staff is excited about what Devin brings to the table. His football pedigree is a plus, but what truly stands out is his work ethic and leadership. “He’s mature beyond his years,” said one Notre Dame insider. “You can see that he’s grown up around the game. There’s a certain level of understanding and calm that he brings to the position.”
Larry Fitzgerald has been a supportive presence throughout his son’s journey but has remained intentionally hands-off in terms of pushing Devin toward any specific path. In past interviews, the elder Fitzgerald has emphasized the importance of Devin finding his own way and choosing a school that fits his academic and athletic aspirations. Notre Dame, with its combination of elite academics, a strong football culture, and a national brand, certainly fits the bill.
Devin’s recruitment will be closely watched in the months ahead, not only because of his famous last name but also because of the buzz surrounding his potential. He has shown flashes of brilliance that suggest he could be a Power Five-level quarterback, and with continued development, he may even rise into elite territory.
For Notre Dame, this offer aligns with its ongoing efforts to secure top quarterback talent in future classes. Head coach Marcus Freeman and offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock have made it a priority to evaluate and pursue quarterbacks who can run a modern, dynamic offense. In Fitzgerald, they see a player with the physical tools and mental sharpness to thrive in their system.
The offer also speaks to Notre Dame’s broader recruiting strategy, which increasingly emphasizes early identification and relationship-building with high-upside prospects. Getting in early with someone like Devin Fitzgerald could pay dividends down the road, particularly if the Irish can establish a strong rapport with the Fitzgerald family.
While Devin’s journey is still in its early stages, the interest from Notre Dame is already sparking excitement among Irish fans and recruiting analysts. His connection to one of the NFL’s all-time greats adds an undeniable allure, but the younger Fitzgerald is proving he’s more than just a famous name. He’s a competitor, a student of the game, and a quarterback with real potential.
As more programs inevitably join the race, Notre Dame’s early move could set the tone for how this recruitment unfolds. The Fighting Irish have positioned themselves as a serious contender, and now the focus shifts to continued evaluation, campus visits, and relationship-building. Devin is expected to take multiple unofficial visits this summer, with Notre Dame likely to be one of his primary destinations.
It will be fascinating to see how Fitzgerald continues to develop over the next year. If his trajectory continues upward, he could become one of the most talked-about quarterbacks in the 2026 cycle. His mechanics, arm strength, and command of the offense already suggest a high ceiling, and with the mentorship of his father and high-level coaching at Brophy, he has every chance to reach it.
Notre Dame has a rich history of standout quarterbacks, from Joe Montana and Tony Rice to Brady Quinn and Ian Book. Devin Fitzgerald may very well have the chance to add his name to that list. It’s too early to make predictions, but the offer is a strong indication of the Irish’s belief in his potential.
In the ever-competitive world of college football recruiting, name recognition can open doors, but it’s talent and character that ultimately seal the deal. Devin Fitzgerald seems to have both. With a Notre Dame offer in hand and his recruitment gaining momentum, the spotlight is growing brighter. But if his early performances and demeanor are any indication, he’s ready for it.
Whether he ends up in South Bend or elsewhere, Devin Fitzgerald’s journey will be one to watch. For now, Notre Dame has taken the first major step in that journey. And in doing so, they may have just positioned themselves for one of the most compelling quarterback recruitments in recent memory.
Stay tuned. The legacy is just getting started.