The Notre Dame Fighting Irish triumphed over 31 programs to land four-star wide receiver Devin Fitzgerald. The prospect took after his father, Larry Fitzgerald, who recently shared what pushed his son to choose the blue-blood program.

“There were some unofficial visits we took where he had an unbelievable time, and he’d be like, ‘Dad, I really like this place... but the guys are undisciplined, they’re not focused…’ I didn’t say anything, but I would think, ‘I’m so proud,’” the former NFL wide receiver said.

Fitzgerald made an appearance on the May 29 episode of In The Bayou With Tyrann Mathieu podcast. He shared the pride he took in his 17-year-old son’s ability to determine which college program best suited him.

Devin, standing at 6’2 and 205 lbs, is a part of the 2026 class under head coach Marcus Freeman. 247 Sports Composite ranked him as the 28th-overall wide receiver, and he is the second-ranked recruit in the state. He posted 149 catches for 2,125 yards and 26 touchdowns. 

He tied the Brophy School record for catches and is second for career yards and touchdowns. Devin ranks second in the school’s history in single-season receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns, which testify to his discipline. 

“I’m here for a purpose. And to be able to find a place that he felt he could compete at the highest level and get a good education. He could have the best coach in college football.” 

The father-son duo was always clear on what they wanted from a program overall, and Devin committed to Notre Dame in 2025. 

Devin Fitzgerald Reveals His Recruitment Process With The Fighting Irish 

Notre Dame’s wide receiver coach Mike Brown led Devin Fitzgerald’s recruitment. Brown not only played in the NFL between 2012 and 2015 but is also close with Devin. 

“I've developed into a better ballplayer, and they really think I'm going to turn into a great player. I've known Coach Brown since I was 5 years old. He's shown me that I can come in, step up and play early. That's their plan with me,” Fitzgerald told ESPN in July 2025. 

Taking the next step in his football journey can be daunting, and Devin had many offers to choose from. He, however, had the support of his father, who has lived this phase. 

“Having my dad there to help me throughout the recruiting process has been great," Devin Fitzgerald said. “He knows what's important. You want to go somewhere you feel like you belong and where you fit in.”

Larry Fitzgerald was picked third overall by the Arizona Cardinals in 2004. He was a career Cardinals player and retired from the NFL in 2020 with 1,432 receptions for 17,492 receiving yards and 121 receiving touchdowns. 

Now, his son starts a new chapter in his football journey. What are your thoughts on him choosing this Fighting Irish?

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Written by

Akanksha Biradar