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Multiple Notre Dame Football Commits Have Fathers With Deep NFL Legacies
Notre Dame’s 2026 recruiting class is turning heads, not just for its talent but for its deep ties to NFL greatness.
The Fighting Irish have assembled a group of recruits that carries a legacy of professional football excellence, with several players hailing from families of former NFL stars.
This unique blend of heritage and skill is setting the stage for a bright future in South Bend.
Ranked fourth nationally, the 2026 class boasts a mix of top-tier talent and promising potential.
With a strong emphasis on both athleticism and character, Notre Dame continues to build a program that honors its storied tradition while looking ahead to new heights.
The addition of these NFL legacies underscores the program’s appeal and its ability to attract players with not only talent but also a deep understanding of the game.
As the Fighting Irish prepare for the future, this recruiting class serves as a testament to the program’s enduring reputation and its commitment to excellence on and off the field.
Take a look below at Multiple Notre Dame Football Commits Have Fathers With Deep NFL Legacies.
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1. Devin Fitzgerald | Son of Larry Fitzgerald
Larry Fitzgerald: One of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history, Fitzgerald spent his entire 17-season career (2004–2020) with the Arizona Cardinals. Known for his incredible hands, route running, and consistency, he ranks second all-time in career receiving yards and receptions. A 11-time Pro Bowler, he was a key figure in the Cardinals’ 2008 Super Bowl run.
2. Jerome Bettis Jr. | Son of Jerome Bettis Sr.
Jerome Bettis Sr.: Nicknamed “The Bus,” Bettis was a bruising running back who played 13 seasons (1993–2005) with the Rams and Steelers. He ranks among the top 10 all-time in rushing yards and was known for his power and durability. Bettis capped his career with a Super Bowl win in his hometown of Detroit in 2006 and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2015.
3. Elijah Burress | Son to Plaxico Burress
Plaxico Burress: A talented wide receiver, Burress played 11 seasons (2000–2012) with the Steelers, Giants, and Jets. Known for his size and ability to make contested catches, he is best remembered for catching the game-winning touchdown in the Giants’ upset victory over the Patriots in Super Bowl XLII.
4. Kaydon Finley | Son of Jermichael Finley
Jermichael Finley: A dynamic tight end, Finley played six seasons (2008–2013) with the Green Bay Packers. Known for his athleticism and receiving ability, he was a key part of the Packers’ offense during their 2010 Super Bowl-winning season. His career was cut short due to a neck injury.
5. Thomas Davis Jr. | Son of Thomas Davis Sr.
Thomas Davis Sr.: A linebacker known for his toughness and leadership, Davis played 16 seasons (2005–2020), primarily with the Carolina Panthers. Despite overcoming three ACL tears, he became a three-time Pro Bowler and was a key part of the Panthers’ 2015 Super Bowl run. He won the NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year Award in 2014.
6. Bryce Young | Son of Bryant Young
Bryant Young: A dominant defensive tackle, Young spent his entire 14-season career (1994–2007) with the San Francisco 49ers. Known for his strength and consistency, he was a four-time Pro Bowler and a key part of the 49ers’ Super Bowl XXIX-winning team. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2022.
7. James Flanigan | Son of Jim Flanigan
Jim Flanigan: A defensive tackle, Flanigan played 10 seasons (1994–2003) with the Bears, Packers, 49ers, and Eagles. Known for his versatility and ability to rush the passer from the interior, he had his best years with the Chicago Bears, including a 10-sack season in 1995.
