Notre Dame will host its biggest recruiting weekend of the year when No. 1 Miami comes to South Bend, and the Irish got the momentum started Wednesday afternoon.
2027 Saint Joseph (Ind.) safety James Criniti flipped his commitment from Central Michigan to Notre Dame, allowing the local prospect to stay home and walk-on to Marcus Freeman’s program.
The 6-foot-1, 210-pound safety has been a frequent visitor to Notre Dame games and camps over the last few years. Now, he'll get the opportunity to play for his dream school.
“After much thought and prayer, I have decided to decommit from Central Michigan University,” Criniti said in a statement. “I am incredibly grateful to Coach Drinkall, Coach Fleming and the entire Central Michigan staff for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to continue my football career.
“An opportunity and offer to play for my dream school, the University of Notre Dame, is one I could not pass up.
“Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way. Go Irish!”
As a senior, Criniti recorded 69 tackles and three interceptions for the Huskies. Saint Joseph finished the 2026 season with a 9-2 record.
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