Notre Dame surging for elite 2027 defensive lineman with Fighting Irish family ties

While Notre Dame is still focusing on adding talent through the Transfer Portal this winter, Marcus Freeman's crew is also keen on adding players to its highly ranked 2027 recruiting class. Among those who could pull the trigger on a commitment soon is Brayden Parks, and when he does, the Fighting Irish will be getting a big man in the defensive middle.

Parks is someone who has shown a ton of interest in ND for months now. Not only have Freeman and his staff made good impressions, but the 6-foot, 308-pound defensive lineman has family ties to South Bend as his godfather is Notre Dame legend Chris Zorich, and his cousin is former running back Tony Jones Jr.

Those connections likely played at least some part in Rivals' insider Greg Smith recently putting in an official prediction for Notre Dame to land Brayden Parks in the not-too-distant future. Smith's prediction late last week joins Mike Singer's own prognostication for the Irish back in October.

Brayden Parks’ Notre Dame ties fueling momentum in 2027 recruiting battle

Should the Golden Domers close the deal in the very near future, it would mean securing the No. 26 defensive lineman and No. 10 player in Illinois for the 2027 class, according to the Rivals Industry Rankings.

It would also mean they scored the Brother Rice 4-star prospect over Power 4 teams like Oregon, Ohio State, LSU, Illinois, and Oklahoma.

Parks has already taken several unofficial visits to see what Notre Dame has to offer. It's likely an official visit is in the offing this spring. One would think when spring practice kicks off. If all goes well, Brayden Parks may become a member of the Irish soon after.

However, before Notre Dame can make things official, they'll need to hold on as he's planning two January visits to Oregon and Illinois. Both programs are high on his list and genuine contenders for the defensive tackle.