Brayden Parks has already made multiple trips to Notre Dame, but the upcoming Junior Day visit should still prove to be important.
The 2027 Illinois defensive tackle will return to South Bend Saturday as the Irish continue to build on one of their longest standing relationships this cycle.
The Brother Rice standout holds offers from Notre Dame, Ohio State, Oregon, Michigan, Georgia, Tennessee, Miami, Illinois, Alabama, LSU, Texas A&M, Florida, Auburn and Washington among many others.
Notre Dame’s history has been one of the biggest factors drawing Parks back to campus repeatedly.
“The tradition,” Parks said.
The 6-foot-3, 305-pounder has developed relationships with several members of the Irish staff, including defensive line coach Charlie Partridge, assistant defensive line coach Nick Sebastian and head coach Marcus Freeman.
Partridge is still early in the relationship building process with Parks after arriving in South Bend this offseason.
“He’s a great person,” Parks said. “The relationship is still in the starting phases, but I think it will keep growing as time goes on.”
Freeman has also made a strong impression.
“He’s a motivator,” Parks said. “Great person. I would love to be coached by him and play for him.”
Academics and the overall reputation of the university have also been central to Notre Dame’s pitch.
“I’d say tradition and education,” Parks said when asked what sticks out most.
Parks has already seen the campus several times, so the focus of this visit will be slightly different.
“Just trying to talk more with the coaches,” Parks said.
Parks has already scheduled official visits with Notre Dame, Ohio State and Oregon while continuing to evaluate several other programs during the spring.
He plans to visit Georgia, Tennessee, Oregon, Ohio State, Miami and Illinois in the coming months as well.
Training with former Notre Dame defensive lineman Kerry Neal has played a significant role in Parks’ development.
“It’s been amazing,” Parks said of working with Neal. “It’s huge boost to my confidence just knowing I’m getting coached by a person who’s been through it. He’s been through the recruiting process and played at the college level, so he’s been a huge help to my success.
“He’s always going to keep it real with you. If you’re not doing what you need to do, he’s going to tell you. He’ll keep you on your toes, but he’s never going to lie to you.”
Parks understands the connection Neal has to the Irish, but ultimately knows the decision must be his own.
“It would be great. If I chose Notre Dame it’s close to home and he’s been through it there, so he knows what it can do for you not just in football but in life.”
Want the latest scoop on the Fighting Irish? Sign up for our newsletter and become an ISD Premium Subscriber: Sign Up for ISD
Notre Dame Fighting Irish Foul Ball Rope Adjustable Hat
