Top 2024 LB Adarius Hayes Getting Comfortable with Notre Dame

2024 Largo (Fla.) linebacker Adarius Hayes‍ got his first look at Notre Dame in the spring as he attended the Blue-Gold Game in April. 

The four-star prospect returned last weekend for Junior Day as he wanted to get a more in-depth look at the opportunities Notre Dame could provide on and off the field while also getting a feel for the Irish coaching staff. 

“A few highlights from the trip was that I got a chance to talk to the coaching staff and to get to know them more,” Hayes told ISD. “I also got a chance to talk to other recruits like Cj Carr and Bryce Young.” 

Graduate assistant and assistant linebackers coach James Laurinaitis has done an impressive job on the recruiting trail and Hayes left impressed following his time with the Ohio State legend. 

“Coach Laurinaitis said to me that I am a great fit for Notre Dame and that I will still be a linebacker, but coming off the edge as a vyper linebacker,” explained Hayes. 

Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman echoed the message from Laurinaitis as Hayes’ game translates to multiple spots on the defensive side of the ball given his athleticism, length and size. 

“Coach Freeman talked to me about being a tall lanky LB,” stated Hayes. “He said that I have the mindset and the skill to be able to be flexible and get to the ball in time.” 

As for his time with Carr and the other recruits on campus, Hayes felt he meshed well into the group, which comes as little surprise given how outgoing Notre Dame’s 2024 commits have been throughout the last six months. 

“I feel comfortable playing with the other recruits that are already committed to Notre Dame,” Hayes said. “I also can see myself fitting into Notre Dame’s scheme.” 

When it comes to decision, the Florida native is starting to arrive closer to narrowing his recruitment down. 

“My decision will be coming soon,” said Hayes. “I don’t know when it’s coming, but I want to be able to have the opportunity with the right program and the best fit for me.” 

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