Mason Halliman came out with a Top 5 last month, but the 2027 Illinois offensive lineman stressed that is not a final five.
“Just my top five currently right now,” Halliman said of Iowa, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Auburn and Illinois.
“It doesn't carry much weight. It can change.”
The fact that his list is subject to change is one reason why the 6-foot-5, 280-pounder was in South Bend for Notre Dame’s win over Boise State last weekend.
“It was great,” Halliman said of the trip. “The environment was pretty good. The fans were pretty hectic too.
“That was fun to watch. The game was good. They played well.”
While in town, the Lincoln-Way East High School standout had the chance to speak with Notre Dame offensive line coach Joe Rudolph and head coach Marcus Freeman.
“Those were good talks,” Halliman said. “Coach Freeman was just telling me about the school itself and the culture, talking more about the culture and the environment, all that about the school.
“And Coach Rudolph was talking to me about how he would coach me and what he wants me to do to further connect in our relationship.”
Halliman is impressed with what Notre Dame has to offer.
“It's a historically good offensive line school and the tradition there is great,” he said.
“The practice facility was pretty cool too.”
After last weekend’s trip, Halliman plans on returning.
“I'll definitely be back at Notre Dame soon, probably in the spring,” he said.
He has at least one other trip in mind for this fall as well.
“Maybe Wisconsin, but we're working on that,” he said. “That's not for sure.”
Halliman has already identified a couple factors that will be key in his final decision.
“A reliable coach that will be there for more than four years and playing early.”
Want the latest scoop on the Fighting Irish? Sign up for our newsletter and become an ISD Premium Subscriber: Sign Up for ISD
Under Armour Kelly Green Notre Dame Fighting Irish Sideline Knockout Long-Sleeve
