2027 DL Brayden Parks Returns to Notre Dame for Irish Invasion
2027 Brother Rice (Ill.) defensive lineman Brayden Parks has been a frequent visitor to Notre Dame over the past year, and he returned to South Bend once again last week for Irish Invasion.
This trip wasn’t just about being around the Irish program. It was a valuable opportunity to be coached directly by defensive line coach Al Washington.
“Coach Wash is just a chill guy, but he loves to work,” stated Parks. “He brings that energy. He wants you to bring that energy. He just always wants you to come ready to work.”
Parks wasn’t alone in the trenches. Six other defensive linemen with Notre Dame offers were also in attendance, adding to the competitive atmosphere.
“Even from the start, stretch-wise, it's just all competitiveness,” Parks said. “That's what you want. You just put your best foot forward and try to make yourself better.”
The 6-foot-3, 295-pounder was tested during the camp, including reps against 2026 Notre Dame offensive line commits Sullivan Garvin and Ben Nichols.
“I didn't know they were Notre Dame commits until after, but they were great. They're probably a good fit for Notre Dame and Coach Freeman’s scheme. If I come here, it'll probably be a great matchup for practice.”
Parks, who was fresh off a trip to Oregon, plans on winding his summer down with one more camp.
“I have one more camp at Ohio State next Friday on the 12th,” stated Parks. “That's really it for right now.”
While on the visit, Parks attended the cookout and learned more about the school.
“I'd say the legacy stands out to me the most,” Parks stated. “Having my cousin (Tony Jones Jr.), who played there, my godfather, Chris (Zorich), it's just the legacy.”
Do those family ties help Notre Dame’s chances? Parks says they’ve certainly influenced his consistent visits, but he’s looking to find the right fit for himself.
“I'm really considering Notre Dame, but I still want to keep my options open until I think I'm ready to make that decision,” explained Parks. “I try to keep my parents included and just listen to God and see where he takes me.”
Notre Dame isn’t relying on those family ties to seal the deal. Parks feels how much Notre Dame wants him as the Irish have made a big push in recent months.
“They want me real bad,” Parks said. “Something I can't even express. This school is the most I've ever visited, so I just got to visit more schools more times to see what happens.”
Parks does plan to take visits to schools in the South later this year, as he continues to sort through his growing list of offers.
“I don't think location will be a factor for me right now,” stated Parks. “If I want to go somewhere, that's where I want to be.”
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