For 2027 prospects, being pushed to the front of the line has not necessarily translated to a faster recruiting process.
“It’s cool, but for me personally I feel like it’s been slow,” 2027 Washington defensive lineman Tevita Nonu recently told Irish Sports Daily. “Maybe more teams are focused on portal guys, but I don’t know.”
The O’Dea High School standout has remained patient as his recruitment continues to take shape, particularly with Notre Dame maintaining consistent contact since the end of the season.
“Notre Dame has kept in touch with me especially after the season,” Nonu said. “Myron (Tagovailoa-Amosa), Coach Al Washington, Coach Nick Sebastian and head coach Marcus Freeman have all been reaching out. They want to keep in touch and have been expressing their excitement about me coming in the spring.”
Those conversations have put a visit firmly on the radar.
“I do want to go on an official visit for sure,” Nonu said. “That’s something I’m planning on.”
The 6-foot-4, 270-pounder has drawn interest from a wide range of programs and is actively mapping out a busy stretch of visits over the coming months.
“I’ve been talking mainly to Washington, Arizona, BYU, Arizona State and Notre Dame,” Nonu said. “Other schools have reached out too, like Stanford.”
The Seattle, Wash., native said he would like to see each school in person before narrowing his focus and confirmed plans to visit Oregon.
“I would like to visit all these schools,” Nonu said. “I’m planning to visit Oregon on the 31st, then I’ll make my decision in the spring after my official visits.”
When it comes time to make that call, Nonu said his priorities are clearly defined.
“Education, the culture, stability of the staff, development on the field and as a man as well,” he said. “Those things matter most to me.”
Notre Dame’s pitch has resonated in that regard.
“I think they are all great people,” Nonu said. “They treat their players very well, have great coaching and mentorship and that’s what I want in my coaches so I can be successful in my future.”
The Cathedral Catholic High School star holds verified offers from Notre Dame, Washington, Arizona, Arizona State, Stanford, California, Oregon State, San Diego State, Sacramento State, Portland State and Idaho among others.
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