Kaiden Buchanan didn't know exactly what to expect before visiting Notre Dame in June.
The 2028 Mississippi linebacker left South Bend with a true understanding of the Irish's academic reputation, a strong first impression of the linebackers coach, a scholarship offer and plans to return for a game this fall.
Buchanan has stayed in regular contact with linebackers coach Brian Jean-Mary since earning the offer and says their conversations have centered around preparing for the upcoming season.
"Most of the time we're just talking about how the workouts have been and getting ready for football season to start back," Buchanan told Irish Sports Daily.
The 6-foot, 220-pounder appreciates Jean-Mary's approach.
"He a cool guy, down to earth," Buchanan said. "I like that he's truthful too. He doesn't just lie to tell you something that you want to hear."
Notre Dame extended Buchanan's offer during his June visit to South Bend, giving him an opportunity to spend time with both Jean-Mary and head coach Marcus Freeman.
The Tupelo High School standout admitted he didn't fully understand what Notre Dame had to offer prior to arriving.
"Before I went, I didn't know that was an Ivy League-type and how high they really are on education," he said. "I like that. The campus is huge."
Buchanan also came away impressed after meeting Freeman.
"I talked to Coach Freeman too and I can just tell by his demeanor that he's a good head coach,” said Buchanan.
The Mississippi native also holds offers from Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Florida State, Georgia Tech, Michigan, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, Tennessee, Texas A&M, USC and many others.
His next step with Notre Dame is already set.
"Get to a game for sure," Buchanan said. "I think the November 21st game against SMU."
When he gets back to South Bend, Buchanan plans to pay particularly close attention to the Irish defense.
"I want to see how the defense plays with the new linebacker coach and just how the linebackers play," he explained.
Buchanan also hopes to visit UCLA, USC and other schools this fall before beginning to narrow his recruitment.
"I'd say shorten it down probably right after the season," he said, noting that the list may remain internal and that he’ll be cognizant of trying to focus on the schools that are making him a priority.
As he works toward that point, Buchanan already knows the three biggest factors that will shape his decision.
"Development, education, relationships."
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