2028 CB Phoenix Evans Earns Notre Dame Offer After Irish Invasion Performance

2028 Don Bosco Prep (N.J.) cornerback Phoenix Evans‍ made his first visit to Notre Dame earlier this spring, but his second trip to South Bend proved to be a memorable experience. 

“I feel really special getting it from Notre Dame,” Evans stated. “They have great education and not only did Coach (Marcus) Freeman sign off on that, it just feels so special getting it from them.” 

The 5-foot-9, 160-pounder impressed the coaching staff with a strong showing at Irish Invasion, which led to an offer from the Irish before he even left campus.

“It happened after I had really competed at the camp,” said Evans. “I did really well. Coach Mickens and Coach J-Cod (Jevaughn Codlin) really liked how I moved and competed. When we went to the BBQ, that’s when they told me. It was good.” 

Evans might be new to the Notre Dame world, but the New Jersey native already has a strong understanding of what the school can do for him on and off the field. 

“What stands out to me the most is that not only do they provide for you in football, but they provide for you after football too,” explained Evans. “There's still life after football, so they can really help me be successful after football as well.” 

The time spent with Freeman on both trips this year was impactful. Evans was able to see Notre Dame’s head coach outside of the football field, as well as how he interacts with his players, which has left a lasting impression. 

“He shows that he really cares,” Evans stated. “Not only does he care about us wanting to go to the NFL, he cares about us having bigger dreams as well. He always says that after the NFL, you could be an owner of a team. He really thinks outside the box.” 

Since Irish Invasion, Evans has also visited SMU and Texas A&M, as he continues to build momentum in his recruitment.

“I’m just hoping for the best,” said Evans. “I want to keep progressively getting better and hopefully the ball keeps rolling for me.“

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