2026 Edge Braeden Jones "Very Impressed" With Notre Dame Visit

Braeden Jones‍ was shocked and excited when he landed an offer from Notre Dame last month.

The 2026 Chicago edge defender had a similar feeling following his visit to South Bend this weekend.

“I was very impressed,” the Mount Carmel star told Irish Sports Daily afterward. 

The 6-foot-5, 250-pounder was most struck by the University’s tradition and how it helps set student-athletes up long term.

“What I learned about 4 the 40 was most people either end up becoming CEOs, presidents of companies or just end up taking over these big companies,” Jones said. “It's just crazy to me to see what they do for the players.

“I mean the facilities blew me away of course, but I couldn't get over what they do for players after their careers.”

Jones spoke with multiple Notre Dame staff members including Marcus Freeman, Al Golden, Al Washington and Chad Bowden.

“They want me here,” said Jones, who also has offers from schools like Wisconsin, Nebraska, Purdue, Iowa State and Auburn among others.

“They really want me here and I'm very appreciated at that school. They love me more as a person than a player, to be honest. Honestly, it makes me feel way more appreciated than any other school.”

Following the offer, Jones said Notre Dame was “probably” at the top of his list and the Irish certainly helped themselves this weekend.

Jones will head to Florida for a visit on Tuesday, but plans to return to South Bend soon.

“I'm definitely going to try and get back up for a visit. I know they'll be at our morning lifts sometime this month or next month. I'm just going to continue to stay in contact with them and try to get back up there as soon as possible.”

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