2023 In-State DL Kendrick Gilbert Impressed with Notre Dame's Culture

2023 Cathedral (Ind.) defensive lineman Kendrick Gilbert‍ left Notre Dame in June with an offer in hand as Mike Elston offered in the middle of a camp.

The 6-foot-5, 255-pounder made his way back to South Bend on Tuesday to get a better feel for Notre Dame’s football program as the first visit was more about earning an offer. 

“This trip was way different than June because I got to see everything,” Gilbert told ISD. “I also learned a lot about how the program is run.” 

Elston and defensive coordinator Marcus Freeman carved out time for rising junior and Gilbert appreciated the love, but also the message from the staff. 

“They told me to keep working on the things I need to and keep doing good with everything,” explained Gilbert. “They want me up there.” 

Gilbert isn’t the first member of his family to earn an offer from Notre Dame as his sister Katlyn signed with the Irish hoops program in 2018, so there was some familiarity with the University, but he was able to see why the culture is special in South Bend. 

“One thing that stood out was how Notre Dame is like a family,” stated Gilbert. “During the cookout, everyone was socializing. Another is how they develop their players.” 

The Cathedral star isn’t in a rush to make a decision as he’ll switch his focus to his junior season in the coming days.

“It’s a little early at this time,” said Gilbert when asked if he has a timeline for a potential commitment. 

Offers: Cincinnati, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, Notre Dame, Penn State and Purdue

Ranking
ISD: 86 (three-star)
247: 85 (three-star)
Rivals: N/R
ESPN: N/R
Composite: N/R

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