In the last few weeks, the Notre Dame football has been on a bit of a run when it comes to recruiting. Though the commitments of late have been additions to the 2026 class. On Monday, they changed things up a bit and added one more body to the 2025 cycle. And it’s one that the Fighting Irish are going to need.
It’s not all that often that landing the commitment of a kicker is a big deal. Of course, after watching Mitch Jeter get hurt and struggle this season, Blue and Gold fans are pretty desperate to make sure the team is set at that position next year.
Erik Schmidt, the No. 2 kicker in the 2025 class has committed to the Notre Dame football team on Monday afternoon. And not only did the Irish get the talented special teamer, they also stole him away from Wisconsin just two days before signing day.
Notre Dame football flips special teams star Erik Schmidt from Wisconsin
Schmidt, who will play in the Under Armour All-America Game next month, had a strong senior season. He connected on 10 of 13 field goal attempts with his only misses being on 60, 52 and 49-yard kicks. His average field goal attempt was from 46 yards out and had touchbacks on 93 percent of kickoffs. The senior kicker also set a school record with a 55-yard field goal in November.
Schmidt isn’t a one trick pony either. While handling the punting duties, he had a net average of 46 yards per punt and put 13 of 25 attempts inside the 20 as a senior. It’s entirely possible he could punt and perhaps handle double duty for the Notre Dame football team too.