Notre Dame, Nick McCloud A Good Match

In the end, Nick McCloud thought it was a good match for both sides.

That’s why the transfer cornerback from NC State announced his commitment to Notre Dame on Monday.

“There was a need,” the 6-foot-1, 190-pounder said after announcing his decision. “I feel like it was a good opportunity for them to help me out and for me to help them out at a position of need as well. So, I’m just going to come in and compete.”

McCloud started 21 games for the Wolf Pack over the last three years and was named captain during the 2019 season before a knee injury derailed his year.

McCloud was also seriously considering Pittsburgh, but the relationships with Irish coaches like Terry Joseph and Mike Mickens made an impact.

“I’ve been talking to them since the beginning,” said McCloud. “I just really enjoyed how the fact that they stayed consistent throughout the whole process.”

McCloud, who was looking for a fresh start, said they were as fired up as him about the decision.

“They were very excited,” he said. “Everybody is just real excited and ready to get to work whenever the Corona passes by.”

That goes for McCloud’s father, Nakia McCloud, who is also a coach.

“We’re excited,” Mr. McCloud said. “Very excited.”

McCloud is good friends with former Irish defensive back Troy Pride.

“Troy gave him a good scoop of everything, so we’re just excited about the tradition and the winning culture,” Mr. McCloud said. “We’re glad this phase is over with and hope everything gets back so we can start working”

McCloud is looking forward to getting on the field for the Irish.

“Hopefully I’ll make a lot of plays and definitely leadership and helping the team anyway I can, just a dog mentality I guess.”