Notre Dame Recruiting: 4-Star DT Spurns Alabama, Verbally Commits to Irish

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish are trying to build an epic defensive line class in 2019. Hunter Spears became the second piece of that puzzle Tuesday when the four-star from the Dallas-Fort Worth area tweeted his verbal commitment.

Spears, who is the 12th highest ranked defensive tackle in the nation according to the 247 Sports Composite, wrote:

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.

Secondkly, 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.

Spears reported offers from the Colorado Buffaloes, Houston Cougars, Illinois Illini, Michigan State Spartans, Oklahoma State Cowboys, Rice Owls, UTSA Roadrunners, Virginia Cavaliers, Oklahoma Sooners, Alabama Crimson Tide, Baylor Bears, California Bears, TCU Horned Frogs and Texas Tech Red Raiders.

The 6-foot-4, 280 pound lineman attended Notre Dame’s Junior Day on Jan. 27. He had previously visited for the Oct. 21 game against the USC Trojans, after receiving his offer last June 2.

Spears told Irish Illustrated he’ll be working to recruit other top-flight defensive linemen to join him in South Bend.

“Honestly, just talking with the guys today, Jacob Lacey, Mazi Smith, Joseph Anderson, Nana Osafo-Mensah, and myself, if Notre Dame can land all of us, that would be the dream d-line class for Notre Dame. I could see another pass-rusher or two also,” he told the site.