Notre Dame has landed a key piece for its defensive line in 2026, as former Alabama defensive end Keon Keeley has signed to play for Marcus Freeman and the Fighting Irish.
The 6-foot-5, 282-pounder originally committed to Notre Dame during his high school recruitment, but Alabama ultimately won out over the Irish and Ohio State for his services.
Three years later, Keeley will make the move to South Bend with 19 collegiate games under his belt.
In 2025, Keeley played in 13 games and totaled 16 tackles, three tackles for loss, and three sacks, including a game-ending sack in the South Carolina game.
His best performance came on the biggest stage. The Florida native totaled four tackles, one sack, and two quarterback hurries in Alabama’s College Football Playoff win at Oklahoma last month.
Notre Dame adds a player capable of filling the void left by Joshua Burnham at big end, while also offering the flexibility to slide inside when needed.
Keeley’s ceiling as a pass rusher remains extremely high and will now be molded by new defensive line coach Charlie Partridge, who has a long track record of developing elite, high-upside athletes.
He will have two more seasons of eligibility as he redshirted as a freshman in 2023.
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