Notre Dame got off to a slow start at linebacker with their 2027 class, but they’re hitting the ground running in 2028 with a commitment from LB Julian Bruno.
A downhill defender who plays with an edge, I’m a big fan of this addition for the Irish.
Height: 6’1”
Weight: 225
Projected Position: Linebacker
ISD Grade: 91 (4-star)
National Average Grade: 89.0 (3-star)
What he does best:
Bruno is a violent football player. He will take on blocks with ferocity. He hits through people.
He’s a fluid athlete and can find the football in coverage.
He doesn’t have verified testing, but there is zero concern about his speed. He runs down players on the perimeter and has sideline to sideline range.
What he needs to improve:
He’s tremendous when he activates rushing the passer, but he’s not often utilized as a blitzer. I think he’s got some potential as an edge rusher as well. He just doesn’t have the experience doing it.
He’s more see ball, get ball right now. Bruno is instinctual, but will have to improve his recognition.
What’s his ceiling?
Bruno plays with an edge that I always love to see from an off the ball linebacker, but it’s the speed he plays with that really jumps out. He has the kind of athletic traits that every team is looking for at the position and that combined with the violence he plays with makes him an elite prospect.
His ranking will improve as the process continues and I’m excited to see his development over the next year. He has the potential to develop into an impact three-down linebacker at Notre Dame.
Who he could be:
Current BYU LB Cade Uluave
Men's Under Armour Navy Notre Dame Fighting Irish x Lou Holtz Motion Quarter-Zip Pullover
