Is a new DL target appearing? Alister Vallejo, a Texas star, discusses his recent Notre Dame scholarship offer

In the dynamic landscape of college football recruiting, new names often emerge just when the spotlight seems fixed elsewhere. One of those names gaining traction in recent weeks is Alister Vallejo—a rising defensive lineman from Texas who recently received a scholarship offer from Notre Dame. The Fighting Irish may be late to the party in his recruitment, but their timing could prove perfect as Vallejo’s stock continues to rise.

In an exclusive interview, Vallejo opened up about what the Notre Dame offer means to him, his developing relationship with the Irish coaching staff, and what he’s looking for as his recruitment heats up heading into his senior season.

A Star is Born in the Lone Star State

Alister Vallejo, a 6-foot-4, 275-pound powerhouse from Midland Legacy High School in Midland, Texas, has quietly put together one of the most dominant junior seasons in the state. Racking up 71 total tackles, 18 tackles for loss, and 9.5 sacks in 2024, Vallejo drew immediate interest from programs throughout the Big 12 and SEC.

Schools like Texas A&M, Oklahoma, Baylor, and TCU were among the first to extend offers, but the attention didn’t stop there. USC, Oregon, Florida State, and most recently, Notre Dame, have entered the fray.

“The last six months have been kind of surreal,” Vallejo said. “When I started high school, I just wanted to play varsity and help my team. Now I’m getting calls and texts from some of the biggest programs in the country. It’s a blessing.”

The Notre Dame Offer: A Late But Strong Entry

Notre Dame officially offered Vallejo in early April, sending shockwaves through his inner circle.

“I was actually in class when I got the notification from Coach Washington,” Vallejo recalled. “I didn’t even think it was real at first. I had to double-check it a few times.”

That coach would be Al Washington, Notre Dame’s defensive line coach and a critical recruiter for the Irish defense. Known for his energy, attention to detail, and development of high-ceiling talent, Washington quickly made an impression.

“Coach Washington has been super upfront and genuine with me,” Vallejo said. “He told me they had been watching my film for a while and just wanted to be sure before making the offer. That meant a lot, honestly. They didn’t just offer me because everyone else is doing it.”

Notre Dame’s measured approach might have taken longer, but it resonated with Vallejo and his family. In fact, they’re already planning an unofficial visit to South Bend in June.

“My dad’s been talking about that visit nonstop,” Vallejo said with a laugh. “He’s always been a huge college football fan, so he knows the history and tradition that Notre Dame has. It’s something we’re both excited to see firsthand.”

What Vallejo Brings to the Table

On film, Vallejo is everything you want in a modern defensive lineman—quick off the snap, powerful at the point of attack, and relentless in pursuit. His versatility is another major asset. While he projects as a 3-tech defensive tackle at the next level, he’s also played defensive end in Midland Legacy’s 4-3 and 3-4 schemes.

“My coaches always challenged me to learn multiple positions on the line,” Vallejo said. “I think it’s helped me understand the game more and be more valuable to any team I play for.”

Recruiting analysts are beginning to take note as well. 247Sports recently bumped him from a 3-star to a 4-star prospect and placed him in their Top 300 for the class of 2026. Rivals and On3 are expected to follow suit.

“What really jumps out about Alister is his motor,” one Power Five recruiter said. “He plays every down like it’s the last play of the game. That’s what coaches at the next level want to see—especially from interior linemen.”

Notre Dame’s Defensive Line Future

Under defensive coordinator Al Golden and coach Al Washington, Notre Dame has put a premium on developing a rugged, disruptive front. In recent years, they’ve landed big names like Tyson Ford, Keon Keeley (before his flip to Alabama), and most recently, Bryce Young—son of NFL legend Bryant Young.

But with multiple veterans expected to graduate or enter the NFL Draft in the next two seasons, there’s a growing sense that Notre Dame must reload with a new wave of elite talent. That’s where Vallejo comes in.

“They told me they see me as someone who can come in, compete early, and make a real impact,” Vallejo said. “That’s what I’m looking for—a place where I can grow, be challenged, and hopefully contribute.”

Notre Dame’s 2026 class is still in its early stages, with several major defensive linemen being evaluated. Vallejo might be the newest name on their board, but don’t mistake “new” for “afterthought.” With a strong summer and potential in-season visit to South Bend, he could rise to the top of their wish list.

Family, Faith, and Fit: Vallejo’s Recruitment Criteria

As much as football dominates recruiting conversations, Vallejo’s approach is refreshingly grounded. He speaks openly about the influence of his family and faith in making such a life-changing decision.

“My parents always taught me to stay humble and put God first,” he said. “So when I think about where I want to go to school, it’s not just about the jersey or the stadium—it’s about the people, the values, and how they’ll help me become a better man.”

That sentiment bodes well for Notre Dame, a university with a strong academic reputation and faith-based foundation.

“When I talked to Coach Freeman, he didn’t just ask me about football,” Vallejo said. “He asked me about life, about my goals outside the game. That stuck with me. It showed me that he cares about his players as people first.”

Still, other programs have made a strong impression as well. Vallejo recently visited Texas A&M and came away impressed by their facilities and player development. He’s also building rapport with coaches at Oregon and Oklahoma.

“I’m keeping an open mind,” Vallejo said. “It’s still early. I want to see as many schools as I can and then narrow things down probably before my senior season starts.”

Could Vallejo Rise to Blue-Chip Status?

Recruiting insiders believe Vallejo is a few strong camp performances and a dominant senior year away from becoming a consensus top-150 national prospect. He’ll likely attend summer camps at Notre Dame, Oklahoma, and possibly the Rivals Five-Star Challenge if invited.

“Vallejo has all the tools: size, speed, explosiveness,” said Greg Powers, recruiting analyst at Dave Campbell’s Texas Football. “If he continues to improve his technique and conditioning, there’s no reason he can’t be one of the top DL recruits in the country by signing day.”

His Midland Legacy team is also expected to make a deep playoff run this fall, which would only further elevate his visibility.

The Road Ahead

With a June visit to Notre Dame looming and plenty of programs jostling for position, Alister Vallejo’s recruitment is only just beginning. But one thing is clear: the Fighting Irish have made a strong first impression.

“Getting the offer from Notre Dame—it kind of changed things for me,” Vallejo admitted. “It made me realize that this is real. That I can play for one of the top programs in the country, and not just play—maybe even lead.”

He isn’t rushing into a decision, but if his tone and excitement are any indication, Notre Dame has already earned a spot near the top of his list.

“I want to take my time and make the right choice. But yeah,” he said with a smile, “Notre Dame is definitely in it.”

As summer approaches, fans of the Irish—and college football in general—would be wise to keep a close eye on Alister Vallejo. A new DL target may have just emerged, and he’s got the potential to be a game-changer wherever he lands.