2026 ATH Joey O'Brien Ready To See Notre Dame
It’s early, but Joey O'Brien has clearly worked his way onto the recruiting boards of some big-time schools.
The 2026 Pennsylvania athlete picked up his first offer - from Duke - back in January and added another - from Toledo - last month.
Now, the La Salle College High School standout will hit the road for some spring visits, starting with Notre Dame on Thursday.
“Coach Dre (Brown) came across my film and really liked it,” O’Brien tells Irish Sports Daily. “He wants to get me out there to verify my size. He really likes the way I play. They want to see me in person. I’m looking forward to seeing ND.”
The 6-foot-3, 180-pounder’s initial interest is genuine.
“Notre Dame is a combination of excellence when it comes to academics and athletics,” he says. “I take my academics seriously and Notre Dame can set you up for life.”
O’Brien, who could play defensive back or receiver, is hoping to use this trip to get a feel for what it would be like to be a student-athlete in South Bend.
“Obviously I just want to see the campus and get an idea of what it would be like to live there,” he says. “I’ll watch how the coaches interact with their position coaches and try to get a feel for the overall vibe and culture of the program.
“It’s all about learning ND and developing a relationship.”
He has a couple other spring visits in mind.
“I’m working on finding time for Florida State and Syracuse,” he says. “I don’t have many free weekends with 7-on-7.”
It’s early, but O’Brien has an idea of what he’s looking for in a college program.
“I want to be developed,” he says. “I want to win. I want a meaningful degree. I want to be set up for the next 40 years after college.
“Those are some boxes I’m trying to check off.”
Want the latest scoop on the Fighting Irish? Sign up for our newsletter and become an ISD Premium Subscriber: Sign Up for ISD
Imperial Notre Dame Fighting Irish Outdoor Bench
