Notre Dame extended a new offer Wednesday to Cooper Terwilliger, adding another high-upside tight end to its 2027 recruiting board.
The 2027 South Dakota tight end picked up the offer in person during a visit from Notre Dame assistant tight ends coach Harris Bivin, who made the trip to see Terwilliger at T.F. Riggs High School in Pierre, S.D., a gesture that resonated immediately.
“It definitely meant a lot,” Terwilliger told Irish Sports Daily. “It’s hard to get out here to South Dakota, so when they come out here and offer you in person, it definitely shows something.”
The offer came after Notre Dame tracked Terwilliger’s junior season.
“I really appreciate how they went about it,” Terwilliger said. “They wanted to see me grow through my junior year and then offering me in person and coming out here, I really appreciate that.”
The 6-foot-5, 225-pounder holds an extensive offer list that includes schools like Alabama, Florida, Florida State, Georgia, Michigan, Nebraska, North Carolina, Penn State, Stanford, Tennessee, Texas A&M and Wisconsin among others.
Terwilliger has quickly connected with Bivin, who has delivered a strong impression of Notre Dame.
“I like Coach Bivin,” Terwilliger said. “He’s a guy I relate to a lot. He’s someone I connected with really well, and he represents Notre Dame Football well. What he has to say about Notre Dame Football is exciting.”
Notre Dame’s track record at tight end is a major part of the appeal.
“They’re known for producing great tight ends and using tight ends efficiently,” Terwilliger said. “They’re playing for a Playoff spot every single year, and the tradition of the program is something that’s really cool.”
With the offer now in hand, Terwilliger plans to get to campus this spring to continue his evaluation.
“I definitely need to check out Notre Dame this spring and find a way to get up to South Bend,” he said.
When that visit happens, fit and feel will be critical.
“Just being with the people, getting the feel of the culture, and seeing if it’s a place I could see myself at.”
Terwilliger does not have other visits scheduled yet, but does expect his recruitment to move relatively quickly, with a decision targeted before the summer.
“I’d like to make a decision before the semester’s over.”
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