2026 DB DJ Williams: 'I’ve never felt that type of interest before'
2026 Carrollwood Day (Fla.) defensive back DJ Williams earned an offer from Notre Dame on St. Patrick’s Day and wasted little time getting to South Bend.
In fact, Williams was on campus for just over two days this week and left Notre Dame giving his trip high reviews in every aspect.
“Man, I loved it,” Williams told ISD. “The first day, we just really took our time. We got to tour the school and see everything. I also got to learn about the culture and tradition that goes along with Notre Dame.
“We met with all the coaches and the academic advisors. It was awesome seeing Touchdown Jesus and the Basilica of the Sacred Heart.”
Notre Dame’s coaching staff rolled out the red carpet during the unofficial visit, but also kept it real with the Florida native.
The time with the staff won’t be something Williams forgets anytime soon.
“It was pretty awesome,” Williams said. “I’m not going to lie, I’ve never felt that type of interest before, so it was different taking it all in.”
Williams spent time with Marcus Freeman, Al Golden, Mike Mickens and Chad Bowden during his visit and they all left impressions for different reasons.
“It was really, really nice,” Williams said of his time with Freeman. “He was very straightforward and just a nice guy. He’s super genuine.”
On Wednesday, Williams was able to get a good feel for Mickens’ coaching style while taking in practice. The added bonus was the four-star prospect even picked up on some of Nore Dame’s calls while watching.
“He’s not a huge yelling type of guy,” stated Williams. “He’s more hands on. I actually picked up a lot of the calls and the plays.”
Notre Dame’s new General Manager also made sure to spend plenty of time with Williams during the trip.
“It was actually really fun,” explained Williams. “We got some wings at an Irish pub and it was just really nice. It was great meeting him because we had built the relationship beforehand, so it was lovely.
“They call him ‘Crazy Chad,’ so it was awesome hanging out with him. He goes 100 mph.”
Williams does plan on returning in the summer or the fall after what he experienced this week.
“Absolutely,” said Williams. “I like what I see.”
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