When Kaden Gebhardt left the Irish Invasion last summer without an offer, there are plenty of prospects that would have held that against the Notre Dame football coaches. However, the 2026 prospect that could be either a linebacker or safety at the next level totally understood. In fact, he realized he didn’t have a great camp.
Gebhardt has that offer now and he knows that it’s quite important. And it looks like the Fighting Irish even convinced the 3-star prospect out of Ohio that getting an offer just a little bit later makes it that much more special.
The prospect now has offers from schools like Ohio State and Penn State and others after more impressive camp performances. And now that the Notre Dame football team has officially come calling, they’re among the front runners.
Notre Dame football among the front runners for talented defender
The Olentangy player talked to Irish Sports Daily recently and made it clear that part of the excitement of getting an offer from the Irish is stepping into the shoes of those who came before him. Even those that might still be there when he starts lacing it up for the Blue and Gold.
“I'm offered as a linebacker, just watching their linebackers play, it's fun watching them. (Drayk) Bowen and (Jack) Kiser, it was fun watching them this year when I was watching play on TV and just have an opportunity to play in that defense with Chris Ash too as the DC, it's a great opportunity”
At the moment, there isn’t a timeline for when Gebhardt might pull the trigger on a commitment. It seems likely he’ll make another visit to South Bend. He also has visits to Ohio State, Clemson and Penn State on deck. He could add Tennessee to that list as well.
With a decision date not really on the front burner yet, the key to the game is Notre Dame football getting a foot in the door. The offer seems to have done that. Now it’s about closing the deal.