Notre Dame will host one of its key 2027 running back targets later this month when Lathan Whisenton makes his way to South Bend for the program’s Junior Day weekend.
Whisenton confirmed he plans to be on campus March 21 as part of a busy spring travel schedule that will take him across the country.
“I’m really just looking forward to the atmosphere, the culture of the team and how welcoming they are,” the 2027 Texas running back told Irish Sports Daily.
Whisenton pointed to his bond with Irish running backs coach Ja’Juan Seider as a big reason he prioritized the trip.
“My relationship with Coach Seider for sure,” Whisenton said when asked why Notre Dame stood out among the schools he wanted to visit this spring.
“Our relationship is pretty good, pretty genuine and that made me want to come out.”
Seider’s reputation for developing running backs has also caught Whisenton’s attention.
“His development and just how he is as a person,” he said.
The 6-foot, 200-pounder has also communicated recently with head coach Marcus Freeman.
“Coach Freeman called me a few days ago,” Whisenton said. “We chopped it up and it was a good conversation.”
The Waco native added that he has enjoyed getting to know members of the recruiting staff as well.
“The other recruiter (Jourdan Blake), he’s really chill and stuff,” Whisenton said. “I can be myself around him.”
Whisenton is planning several other visits this spring as he continues evaluating his options.
“Florida, Texas Tech, Baylor, SMU, LSU,” he said when asked about the schools on his travel schedule.
A trip to Florida on Monday was the Midway High School standout’s first stop.
Whisenton has already locked in four official visits for the summer as well.
“SMU, Baylor, Texas and Texas Tech,” he said when confirming the schools.
He plans to take five, leaving one remaining slot open.
“It’s basically one more school to be added to that list,” he said.
The rising junior is still targeting a July decision.
When the time comes, the choice will come down to comfort and relationships.
“It’s really just where I feel more welcome. Just the feeling I have and stuff. Whatever feels like home.”
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