Notre Dame has officially secured one of its most coveted defensive targets in the 2025 recruiting cycle. Talanoa Ili, a four-star linebacker from California, has committed to the Fighting Irish, giving head coach Marcus Freeman another major win on the recruiting trail.
Ili, a 6-foot-3, 225-pound standout from Orange County, had offers from powerhouse programs such as USC, Alabama, and Michigan. However, after an official visit to South Bend and extensive conversations with Freeman and defensive coordinator Al Golden, Ili chose Notre Dame as his future home.
“Notre Dame felt like the perfect fit for me,” Ili said in a statement. “The combination of elite academics, a storied football tradition, and the coaching staff’s vision made this an easy decision.”
Ili has been a dominant force on the field, known for his exceptional instincts, sideline-to-sideline speed, and hard-hitting style. He recorded 110 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, and five sacks in his junior season, proving himself as one of the top defensive playmakers in the country.
Freeman emphasized Ili’s potential impact on the program. “Talanoa is a game-changer. His leadership, work ethic, and athleticism will elevate our defense. We couldn’t be more excited to welcome him to the Notre Dame family.”
This commitment strengthens Notre Dame’s already impressive 2025 recruiting class and further cements Freeman’s reputation as an elite recruiter. With Ili in the fold, the Fighting Irish continue to build a formidable defense poised to compete for national championships.
Notre Dame fans can now celebrate as another blue-chip talent joins the program, reinforcing the team’s mission to return to college football’s elite. Welcome to the Fighting Irish, Talanoa Ili!
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