In an unexpected turn of events, four-star linebacker Simeon Caldwell has declared his commitment to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, bypassing other prestigious universities such as the Texas Longhorns, Penn State Nittany Lions, and Arizona State Sun Devils. This decision has caused waves in the college football recruiting world, since Caldwell is regarded as one of the top prospects in the 2026 class.
Caldwell, who attended The Bolles School in Jacksonville, Florida, is 6-foot-3 and weighs 190 pounds, demonstrating a combination of size and athleticism that makes him a versatile defender. According to ESPN’s Junior 300 rankings, he is ranked 29th overall, indicating his high status among his peers.
Caldwell’s recruitment journey has been keenly monitored, and several crucial trips influenced his selection. Notably, he attended Notre Dame’s game against Army at Yankee Stadium, which had a lasting impact on the young player. Following his visit, Caldwell praised the program, saying, “Notre Dame has a fantastic tradition, and the atmosphere was incredible. It felt like an environment where I could see myself progressing as a player as a person.”
Caldwell has made several trips to South Bend, in addition to his visit to Yankee Stadium, to strengthen his relationship with the Notre Dame coaching staff and the campus environment. These visits were critical in his decision-making process, helping him to imagine his future with the Fighting Irish.
Caldwell’s commitment is a huge triumph for Notre Dame’s recruiting efforts, as they aim to create a dominant defence in the future. His versatility allows him to play both safety and linebacker, giving the coaching staff more options in defensive systems. Caldwell’s football IQ, paired with his athletic attributes, make him a crucial member of the squad.
For the other programs vying for Caldwell’s commitment, his decision means a missed opportunity to improve their defensive rosters. The Texas Longhorns, Penn State Nittany Lions, and Arizona State Sun Devils all made persuasive reasons, but Notre Dame’s tradition, academic brilliance, and the relationships formed during his trips swayed Caldwell’s decision.
As Caldwell prepares to join the Fighting Irish, both fans and analysts will be keeping a careful eye on his development. His pledge not only strengthens Notre Dame’s recruiting class, but also lays the groundwork for a successful collegiate career. Simeon Caldwell’s mix of talent, work ethic, and leadership qualities positions him to have a huge impact on the field in the future years.