BREAKING: 2018 CB Joe Wilkins Jr. Commits To Notre Dame

Notre Dame has a cornerback commitment. 

2018 North Fort Myers (Fla.) cornerback Joe Wilkins Jr.‍ delivered the good news to Notre Dame fans all over the country on Sunday as the 6-foot-2, 175-pounder has committed to the Irish after his official visit. 

The three-star prospect marks the lone cornerback in the class and is a much-needed addition to a growing 2018 recruiting class for the Irish. 

The Florida native chose the Irish over the likes of Arizona, Central Florida, Iowa State, Kentucky, Louisville, Michigan State, NC State, Pitt, South Carolina and Washington State.

Wilkins also plays receiver in high school, so it wasn’t an easy decision to give up the ball in his hands, and it was something cornerback coach Todd Lyght had to work on selling him on. 

“Coach Lyght likes my size and wants me to come play defensive back,” Wilkins told Irish Sports Daily. “He liked my length and how I come out of my breaks. He felt I could really fit into the defense.” 

Heading into his official visit, Wilkins wanted to see the football side of things at Notre Dame, but he also wanted to see the opportunities Notre Dame offered in the medical field. Wilkins even hinted if the medial program checked out, then it could be a wrap. 

“I know the degree from Notre Dame is top notch, but I want to know what the medical program is like there,” stated Wilkins. “If they tell me something good about the medical program and the game experience is amazing, then that will be that.” 

It’s also worth noting that Wilkins could be one of the top athletes in the country. In the summer, Wilkins was compared to one of the best players to ever come out of North Fort Myers High School, Deion Sanders. 

“I definitely don’t have anywhere close to the speed he has, but maybe the athleticism I’m up there,” laughed Wilkins. “He was a four-year All-State guy. I’m not that right now, but hopefully, I can earn that accolade this year. 

“Being compared to him is an honor, and it’s great.” 

On the year, Wilkins has 20 receptions for 443 yards and six touchdowns on offense, but he has also recorded two interceptions on defense.