3 reasons why Chaston Smith's addition to Notre Dame Football is massive

The Notre Dame football team is likely still celebrating their big win over US, and now Marcus Freeman and his coaches have something else to celebrate.

On Sunday afternoon, the Fighting Irish got another commit. 4-star defensive back Chaston Smith pulled the trigger just after talk about the Tennessee prospect started heating up on social media.

With the addition, Notre Dame Football is having a rather good season both on the field and in recruiting. Especially on the defensive side of the ball. This commitment could even help wipe away the bad taste from apparently losing out on the Derek Meadows derby for a second time.

Notre Dame Football stole one from the SEC

While it’s never wise to judge a prospect entirely by what schools are chasing him, it’s never bad to grab a recruit away from some of the top SEC schools. Smith was actually convincing several recruiting experts that the Tennessee native would eventually end up with Texas A&M. 

Clemson, South Carolina and Indiana were also all among the favorites to land him. In the end, the Irish simply offered too much to overcome.

He’s got the build to contribute right away

Standings at 6’2” and weighing at 175 pounds, he’s got the height and reach to make an immediate impact for Notre Dame. During his sophomore season he broke up 10 passes. Smith has impressive long speed as well and in many ways his frame and speed should remind people of freshman star cornerback Leonard Moore.

2026 class keeps looking really good

Chaston Smith is now the fourth commit for a 2026 class for Notre Dame football that is looking like it’s building up a head of steam. The cornerback joins standout quarterback Noah Grubbs, dynamic receiver Dylan Faison and talented linebacker Thomas Davis Jr.