In a significant development for college football, four-star wide receiver Kaydon Finley, son of Super Bowl XLV champion Jermichael Finley, announced his commitment to Notre Dame over Texas on Friday. This decision marks the latest addition to the Fighting Irish's remarkable recruiting class, as they continue to attract top talent under the guidance of coach Marcus Freeman.
Standing at an impressive 6-foot-1, Finley is a standout pass catcher playing for the Texas powerhouse, Aledo High School. Ranked as the No. 114 overall prospect in the 2026 recruiting cycle by ESPN, he has quickly garnered attention for his exceptional skills on the field. Finley's commitment to Notre Dame follows a series of official visits this spring, where he also explored options with Arizona State, Texas, and Texas A&M.
Finley noted that Notre Dame has played a pivotal role in his recruitment since his sophomore year. He expressed gratitude towards coach Marcus Freeman, offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock, and wide receivers coach Mike Brown for their consistent support. Additionally, he highlighted the impact of fellow 2026 commits, including top 150 recruits Khary Adams, Joey O'Brien, and Thomas Davis Jr., on his decision. “On my official visit, the recruits they brought in that weekend was a special thing,” Finley stated. “Notre Dame doesn’t just recruit any type of player. You have to be a special person to be able to go there. So the people they’re bringing in with me had a big impact on where I decided to go.”
Kaydon Finley's commitment to Notre Dame is particularly noteworthy given his family's football legacy. His father, Jermichael Finley, played three seasons at Texas from 2005 to 2007 before being selected 91st overall in the 2007 NFL Draft by the Green Bay Packers. Over his eight-year NFL career, Jermichael Finley recorded 223 receptions for 2,785 yards and 20 touchdowns, contributing to the Packers' triumph in the 2010 Super Bowl against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Kaydon Finley has established himself as one of Texas' most productive high school receivers during his time at Aledo. From 2022 to 2024, he has achieved impressive statistics, including 148 receptions for 2,552 yards and 34 touchdowns over three varsity seasons. Notably, he recorded nine 100-yard receiving performances during a dominant junior campaign last fall, finishing the 2024 season with 81 receptions for 1,432 receiving yards and 21 touchdowns.
Finley's commitment adds to a productive run for Notre Dame on the 2026 recruiting trail. The Fighting Irish have successfully secured 12 ESPN 300 pledges since April 1, highlighting the program's growing prominence and appeal among top recruits. As Kaydon Finley joins this esteemed group, the future looks bright for Notre Dame football.
