Early Signing Period: 4 Star DT Hunter Spears Signs With Notre Dame

A big part of the recruiting plan for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish this cycle was to continue to add top talent along the defensive line. They had their eyes deep in the heart of Texas and 4 star defensive tackle Hunter Spears.

It’s official now, as Hunter Spears has sent in his NLI to Notre Dame this morning during the early signing period for college football.

Right now, Spears is more potential than product. He suffered a season ending injury his junior year and had another this season. The 6’4” 280 pounder has the strength and skillset to compete and excel at the next level, but he will have to mend his body first and get ready for the college game.

This is a guy that has all the potential to be like Jerry Tillery. What does that mean? As a defensive tackle he can make plays in the backfield, but also provide the important (and sometimes thankless task) space eater. The latter helps others make plays, and in Clark Lea’s defense, it is a big part of what they do along the front seven.

Spears was one of the first serious targets that surfaced for the Irish in this cycle. He chose Notre Dame over the Alabama Crimson Tide as well as the in-state schools; Texas Longhorns, Texas tech red raiders, and Baylor Bears.

From Hunter’s commitment:

“First off, I would like to thank God for allowing me the opportunity to be in the position I am. I would also like to thank my family, friends, coaches and school for helping guide and support me to this point.

Secondly, I would like to acknowledge the significance of this day. I decided to move up my commitment date to today, Feb. 20, in honor of my Grampy and my biggest supporter. I know how proud of me he is and that he’s looking dow on me.

With that being said, I’m excited and blessed to announce my commitment to The University of Notre Dame. Go Irish.”