Ryan Drakeford's offer sheet was already filled with many of the biggest programs in college football when Notre Dame joined the list.
That didn't make the offer the 2028 Maryland safety landed from the Irish over the summer any less meaningful.
“It was an honor to know that a national-level program like ND appreciates my game,” Drakeford said. “I felt good about it.”
The 6-foot-1, 180-pounder spoke with Notre Dame defensive coordinator Chris Ash, defensive backs coach Aaron Henry, safeties coach Jevaughn Codlin and DJ Bryant during the offer conversation.
“They liked my film, size, speed, and versatility in playing multiple positions, including cornerback, nickelback, and safety,” Drakeford said.
Notre Dame joins Arkansas, Auburn, Florida, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oregon, Penn State, South Carolina, Stanford, Tennessee, UCLA, Virginia, Virginia Tech, Wisconsin and several others on Quince Orchard standout’s offer sheet.
The Irish had been consistently communicating with Drakeford before extending the offer, which helped convince him their interest was legitimate.
“Coaches were consistent in terms of reaching out, and they seemed excited to meet me,” he said. “I felt like there was a genuine interest.”
One conversation in particular stood out to the Gaithersburg, Md., native.
“I also really liked talking to the GM,” Drakeford said. “That was the conversation that really got my attention.”
Drakeford was referring to Notre Dame general manager Mike Martin, and the Irish will soon have an opportunity to build on that interest in person.
Drakeford was on campus this past offseason and is scheduled to return to South Bend for Notre Dame's Sept. 19 game against Michigan State.
“I believe we’ll continue to strengthen our relationship,” he said. “During my game day visit, we can definitely talk more.”
The Notre Dame stop will be one of many for Drakeford during an ambitious fall visit schedule built around his high school season.
“A lot of invitations were extended and we made a schedule around my high school football season,” he said. “We will visit Kentucky, Florida, Ohio State and Oklahoma to name a few.”
Drakeford also has visits to several other contenders planned during a fall that will give him an unusually thorough opportunity to evaluate his options.
Eventually, he'll be looking for a school that can offer the entire package.
“I’m seeking a well-rounded school that excels academically and athletically. I’m looking for a program that has the potential to compete for a National Championship during my college career.
“Additionally, I want a program that will prepare me for a potential NFL career.”
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