Notre Dame had Khalil Terry’s curiosity for a while. After an unofficial visit for the spring game back in April, the Irish gained his attention.
After a return trip to South Bend this past weekend, Notre Dame now has the 2027 California safety’s commitment.
Terry just went public with his pledge to Notre Dame over offers from schools like USC, Oregon, Washington, Tennessee, North Carolina, Alabama, Georgia, LSU, Ohio State, Penn State and Oklahoma among several others.
“Just how they can set you up for after football,” Terry told Irish Sports Daily of his decision to choose Notre Dame.
“I know that football doesn't last forever, so the fact that a Notre Dame degree is special. Also, they're winning too, which is a big part for me and they're getting people to The League.”
Getting back on campus this past weekend helped the Tustin High School star feel comfortable with the University and the people within the program.
“I got to spend more time with the coaches this time and really develop a relationship,” he said. “I got to know them more and as I got to know them more, I just could tell that it was the right place.”
Irish defensive backs coach Mike Mickens was a big part of that feeling.
“He's a good guy, straightforward,” the 6-foot, 185-pounder said. “He's very young too. He seems like he's very calm. He does a good job.”
Terry was impressed with the gameday atmosphere in South Bend for the Irish’s win over Navy.
“It was pretty dope,” he said. “Everybody was there, some people had their shirts off. It was pretty crazy for real. The students were rushing to get seats and I couldn't even get out. It was pretty crazy for me.”
On the field, Terry expects to play a role similar to what Adon Shuler is currently filling for the Irish.
“I see myself being #8, where they play him in the box and then they sometimes roll him into the post as well,” he said.
Terry informed Mickens and defensive backs assistant Jevaughn Codlin of his decision at the end of his visit and they were both excited.
“It feels great, honestly. I can see that they're building something special and I just want to be a part of that.”
Want the latest scoop on the Fighting Irish? Sign up for our newsletter and become an ISD Premium Subscriber: Sign Up for ISD
Notre Dame Fighting Irish Colosseum Operation Hat Trick Battalion Quarter-Zip
