Irish loading up on the defensive line: Notre Dame lands commitment from four-star Elijah Golden
Notre Dame Lands Top Defensive Prospect Elijah Golden
Florida Star Chooses Irish Over Alabama, Oklahoma and Virginia Tech
Sarasota (Fla.) Cardinal Mooney standout Elijah Golden, a four-star defensive lineman, announced his commitment to Notre Dame on Saturday, choosing the Fighting Irish over finalists Alabama, Oklahoma and Virginia Tech. Ranked No. 19 nationally among defensive linemen by the Rivals Industry and No. 191 overall prospect, Golden stands at 6-foot-4 and weighs 275 pounds. His decision makes him commit No. 27 for Notre Dame in the 2026 recruiting class, bolstering a group previously ranked No. 4 in the nation by Rivals Industry.
Golden: "The People There Are Good People"
Future position coach Al Washington led the recruitment effort for Golden, who cited the coaching staff and fan base as key factors in his decision. “Mainly the coaching staff is good and they rocked with me for a long time, and the fanbase is crazy,” Golden said. “I’d definitely say the people, the people there are good people.”
Golden believes Notre Dame provides the ideal environment for him to excel. "How they do things and their game plans and how they go into games," he explained.
Finding a Home in South Bend
Golden emphasized his search for a program that felt like home. “And if my parents were to drop me off at the school right now I’d be able to fit in with the coaching staff and players and everybody.” He found that sense of belonging at Notre Dame. The Irish were the frontrunner from the moment they offered Golden a scholarship in the spring of 2024.
“The coaching staff stands out the most and their campus,” Golden said. “Their campus feels like home! They have a wonderful coaching staff.”
Notre Dame Assembles Top-Tier Defensive Line
Golden joins an impressive group of defensive talent at Notre Dame, including five-star edge Rodney Dunham Jr., prized defensive end Ebenezer Ewetade, and four-star defensive tackle Tiki Hola. This collection of prospects solidifies Notre Dame's position as a powerhouse on the recruiting trail for the 2026 class.