Notre Dame remains comfortable with Richie Flanigan’s long-term outlook, regardless of where he ultimately lines up, even as position conversations continue in his recruitment.
The Wisconsin native was recruited and committed to Notre Dame as a defensive lineman. While nothing has changed on that front, the Irish clearly believe he could help in a variety of ways, evidenced by a recent visit from offensive line coach Joe Rudolph.
“Coach Rudolph came by,” Flanigan said. “The plan is the same as it’s been. I’m being recruited to play d-line, but I can also play o-line, so we’ll see how it works out in the next few years.”
His preference is clear, though.
“I like playing d-line more,” Flanigan acknowledged.
The 6-foot-4, 260-pounder is viewed by the Irish as capable of impacting the game on either side of the ball, with the decision largely being left in his hands.
“They just asked me what I want to play,” Flanigan said. “I said defense. They’re like, ‘Oh yeah.’”
The Green Bay native chose Notre Dame over offers from schools like Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Michigan State, Nebraska, Northwestern, Penn State and Wisconsin among others.
The message from the staff at this point remains straightforward and development-focused.
“Just keep working in the offseason for the next season of my high school.” he said of that message.
The Notre Dame Academy standout enjoyed spending time with Rudolph during the visit, which included stopping by a workout and spending time at home.
“It was pretty cool,” Flanigan said. “We had a good time. He came to see a team workout and he was over at my house for a little bit, so it was definitely a fun time.”
“I like him a lot as a coach for sure. He’s just a good guy.”
Flanigan had not yet connected directly with defensive line coach Charlie Partridge when we spoke, but his early impression of the hire is positive.
“I haven’t looked too much into it,” Flanigan said. “But a lot of people like him and he has a good history of coaching d-line, so I think it’s a good hire.”
He also expressed support for Al Washington moving on to the NFL.
“I’m happy for him to make that move in his career,” said Flanigan.
Flanigan expects to be back on campus next month.
“I’m going to Junior Day.”
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