(Photo: Chad Ryan)
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish and head coach Marcus Freeman got the week off to an outstanding start, landing four transfer portal commitments on Monday morning. After going the first week of the portal window without a commitment, momentum shifted as the Irish announced four significant additions to next season’s roster.
The first player to commit was former Colorado cornerback DJ McKinney. McKinney began his career at Oklahoma State before transferring to Colorado, where he spent the past two seasons. During the 2025 campaign, he recorded 34 total tackles, including 27 solo stops, along with five pass breakups and one interception. Over his collegiate career, McKinney has totaled 135 tackles (95 solo), 18 pass deflections, four interceptions, and one forced fumble. His experience and proven production make him a valuable addition to Notre Dame’s secondary.
The next commitment came from former Ohio State wide receiver Quincey Porter. Porter finished the season with four receptions for 59 yards while playing a limited role in a deep Buckeyes receiver room. Despite modest statistics, the former five-star recruit brings significant upside and will arrive in South Bend with four years of eligibility remaining. Porter has the tools to develop into a high-impact offensive weapon for the Irish.
Notre Dame also secured a commitment from former Alabama EDGE Keon Keeley. During his time with the Crimson Tide, Keeley recorded 13 total tackles, including three sacks and one pass deflection this past season. For his career, he totaled 16 tackles and three sacks. Notably, Keeley was originally committed to Notre Dame out of high school before flipping to Alabama. His return to South Bend gives the Irish a high-ceiling pass rusher with considerable developmental potential.
The fourth addition of the day was former Michigan cornerback Jayden Sanders. As a true freshman, Sanders logged 23 total tackles (16 solo) and one pass deflection in limited action for the Wolverines. He showed encouraging flashes early in his career and brings multiple years of eligibility along with a strong long-term ceiling to Notre Dame’s defense.
After a relatively quiet opening to the transfer portal window, the Irish have quickly reversed course. Marcus Freeman and his staff landed four talented players in a single day, significantly boosting depth and upside across the roster. With Notre Dame still actively pursuing additional transfers, Monday’s flurry of commitments may only be the beginning.
Portal Watch: Notre Dame isn’t done yet. The Irish remain active, targeting multiple defensive tackles, keeping a close eye on Fort Wayne (Indiana, New Haven High School) native, Ohio State receiver Mylan Graham, and are expected to lock in a kicker this week. More developments could come at any time, as the situation is rapidly evolving.