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Notre Dame Football Recruiting

Update: 2018 DB D'Angelo Mckenzie

April 14, 2017
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2018 Valley Christian (Calif.) defensive back D’Angelo Mckenzie had recently been in communication with area recruiter Brian Polian but wasn’t expecting an offer from Notre Dame.

The four-star prospect received a Notre Dame offer last week, and it was a complete shock for the 6-foot, 180-pounder.

“It’s a blessing and a great opportunity,” Mckenzie told Irish Sports Daily. “I was surprised when I received the offer because I didn’t know it was coming. I had no words to describe how I was feeling.”

Polian had told the San Jose native he was sending his film to be evaluated by Todd Lyght. The Irish defensive backs coach liked the tape, and the process moved quickly to give Mckenzie the good news. 

“I had spoken to Coach Polian,” recalled Mckenzie. “He had told me they were looking at me and watching my film. He was going to send it to the defensive backs coach, and they would go from there.

“He ended up talking with the defensive backs coach, and I got the offer.”

While the communication with Polian is still new, Mckenzie believes they are establishing a stable relationship.

“He contacts me a lot to ask how I am doing and making me strive to do better,” Mckenzie said. “I also run track, so he is checking to see how my track season is going.”

Arizona State, Hawaii, San Diego State, UCLA, Washington State, and Wyoming have also extended an offer to Mckenzie, but another Midwest program could be making a move.

“Arizona State, Cal, San Jose State, UCLA, Washington State, and Michigan recently started talking to me,” stated Mckenzie.

Mckenzie has recently visited two programs in the Los Angeles area, but he admits they might not be the best fit for him despite the location being a favorable factor.

“I have visited UCLA and USC,” explained Mckenzie. “They are close to home, and it’s easy for my family to come down to watch me play. Honestly, I want to get away for college.

“I am looking for a great opportunity to get a good education and a chance to play. I am an athlete, so wherever the coaches need me to play, I will play.”

The Irish should be in line to get an official visit this fall from the California native, who isn’t in a rush to make a decision. 

“I think Notre Dame would be more of an official visit for me,” said Mckenzie.

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