Osita Ekwonu, a 6-foot-2, 220 pound inside linebacker from Charlotte, today gave his verbal commitment to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. In doing so, the four-star athlete became the 13th commitment to the Irish’s Class of 2019, and its second in three days.
With the Providence Day School student’s commitment, the Irish moved up from eighth to sixth place in the 247 Sports Composite team rankings for 2019. Ekwonu also held offers from the Alabama Crimson Tide, Ohio State Buckeyes, Penn State Nittany Lions and two dozen other schools.
Ekwonu is the 190th ranked player nationally, according to the Composite, the seventh-best linebacker and fourth-best athlete in the state of North Carolina.
Ekwonu’s announcement was both spiritual and practical, singling out Jesus for praise before lauding Irish defensive coordinator Clark Lea and head coach Brian Kelly.
“To Him, I give all the glory!
“I need to start by thanking God for his numerous blessings on my life, including the amazing coaches and teammates who have helped me throughout my career and the recruiting process.
“I would also like to personally thank all of the coaches that recruited me and supported me. A huge shoutout to my family for always providing me with guidance and counsel as I grew closer towards a decision, especially my parents and their many sacrifices to enable me to great to where I am today.
“Finally, I would like to thank the University of Notre Dame, as well as Coach Lea and Coach Kelly for blessing me with this incredibly opportunity and privilege. #GoIrish.”
Philippians 4:13
— Osi Ekwonu™ (@Osita_Ekwonu59) June 14, 2018
I am BEYOND excited to announce that I will continue my academic and athletic career at The University of Notre Dame! #FightClub19 pic.twitter.com/PGEo7JrjWo
Ekwonu’s committment announcement including a reference to Phillipians 4:13, which reads: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
As a junior, Ekwonu made 101 tackles, three sacks and broke up three passes. On the other side, Ekwonu the running back carried the ball 67 times and accumulated 500 yards and 13 touchdowns, according to the Charlotte News & Observer.
Ekwonu is also a twin. Ikem, a lineman, is considered a lean toward the N.C. State Wolfpack. The Irish and Wolfpack aren’t scheduled to play again until 2023.