Notre Dame has officially secured a commitment from Rodney Dunham, a highly regarded 2026 defensive end from Myers Park High School in Charlotte, North Carolina. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 230 pounds, Dunham is celebrated for his exceptional athleticism and relentless drive on the field.
Dunham’s decision to join the Fighting Irish comes after a series of visits and consistent communication with Notre Dame’s coaching staff. He first visited South Bend on April 13, 2024, and had an official visit scheduled for June 14-16. Head coach Marcus Freeman’s visit to Myers Park High School shortly after the National Championship Game further solidified the relationship between Dunham and the program.
In his sophomore year, Dunham demonstrated his prowess by recording 55 total tackles, 16 tackles for loss, seven sacks, 20 quarterback pressures, three interceptions, and a blocked field goal over 10 games. Beyond football, he is recognized as one of North Carolina’s top baseball players, showcasing his versatility and athleticism.
Academically, Dunham excels with a GPA exceeding 4.0, embodying the student-athlete ideal that Notre Dame values. His commitment marks a significant addition to the 2026 recruiting class, as he becomes the first defensive lineman to join the group, which previously included seven commitments, primarily on offense.
Dunham’s decision underscores Notre Dame’s continued success in attracting top-tier talent and reinforces the program’s reputation for combining athletic excellence with academic achievement.
