“NOTRE DAME SCORES BIG — 4-Star WR Kaydon Finley Commits to Fighting Irish, Bolstering 2024 Recruiting Class with Elite Talent”
Notre Dame continues to solidify its status as one of college football’s premier programs with the commitment of 4-star wide receiver Kaydon Finley. The talented pass-catcher’s decision to join the Fighting Irish adds another high-caliber athlete to an already promising 2024 recruiting class, signaling that the program under Marcus Freeman is not only maintaining its national presence but elevating its long-term ambitions. Finley, a dynamic playmaker with impressive size, route-running, and speed, had several high-profile suitors but ultimately chose the tradition, culture, and upward trajectory of Notre Dame. His commitment speaks volumes about what Freeman and his staff are building in South Bend.
Kaydon Finley brings with him the pedigree and potential that excite fans and scouts alike. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing around 195 pounds, he possesses the ideal frame for a boundary receiver. His ability to high-point the football, adjust mid-air, and separate at the top of routes makes him a threat at all three levels of the field. In high school, he demonstrated consistency with his hands, explosiveness after the catch, and a high football IQ that allowed him to read defenses and exploit gaps. While rankings can be fluid, Finley has consistently been regarded as a top-30 wide receiver nationally and a top-200 overall recruit in his class, an impressive feat given the competitive nature of modern recruiting.
What makes Finley’s commitment even more meaningful is how Notre Dame won out over a group of prestigious programs. With offers from Alabama, Georgia, USC, and Ohio State, among others, Finley had his pick of powerhouse destinations. Yet it was Notre Dame’s blend of athletic excellence, academic prestige, and familial culture that sealed the deal. His campus visits reportedly left a deep impression, particularly his interactions with the coaching staff, fellow recruits, and alumni network. According to sources close to his recruitment, Finley felt an instant connection with wide receivers coach Chansi Stuckey, who has quickly made a name for himself as an elite recruiter and developer of talent. Marcus Freeman’s player-centric approach and long-term vision for the program further strengthened the case for Notre Dame, giving Finley and his family confidence that he would be developed both on and off the field.
From a team-building perspective, Finley’s commitment fills a critical need for Notre Dame. The Fighting Irish have made significant strides on both sides of the ball, but landing a true outside receiver with the tools to stretch the field vertically and dominate one-on-one matchups adds a new layer to their offensive identity. In recent years, Notre Dame has been known for its strong offensive line play, powerful running game, and
