Marcus Freeman Makes Aggressive Move for NFL Legend’s Elite WR Son After B1G Giants’ Big Push

Marcus Freeman is on a recruiting tear since almost grabbing that national title. Notre Dame’s 2026 class is suddenly white-hot, rocketing up the rankings after a sleepy start to 2025. Their latest grab? Elite RB Javian Osborne. This commitment has the Irish sitting pretty at No. 2 in the 2026 class on two big recruiting sites. Freeman and his crew aren’t just recruiting; they’re announcing their presence.

Now, Marcus Freeman is swinging big—and this time, he’s eyeing NFL royalty. Notre Dame’s HC is making a bold move for none other than Larry Fitzgerald Jr.’s son. The elder Fitzgerald, an all-time great and future Hall of Famer, built a legendary career with the Arizona Cardinals. Now, his son is stepping into the spotlight. Over Super Bowl weekend, the younger one was handpicked for Nike’s elite “Next Ones” combine in New Orleans. Surrounded by 31 top prospects and NFL Academy talent from Europe, he soaked in wisdom from football’s finest. For him, it wasn’t just a camp—it was a preview of the stage he’s chasing.

On May 6, Mike Singer reported that Notre Dame receivers coach Mike Brown made a stop in Phoenix—specifically at Brophy Prep. His target? Devin Fitzgerald, the son of NFL icon Larry Fitzgerald. And the Irish aren’t just casually watching—they’re dialed in. Devin is quickly becoming one of the hottest names in the 2026 class. A standout at Brophy College Prep, he’s ranked No. 89 nationally and No. 4 in Arizona by 247Sports. With over 30 powerhouse programs already circling—and even Bill Belichick taking notice—Fitzgerald’s stock is soaring.

While Notre Dame is going all-in for Devin Fitzgerald, a Big Ten powerhouse is making its own bold move.

In March, On3 High School posted a photo on X that stirred the pot—Fitzgerald standing next to Michigan’s 5-star QB commit, Bryce Underwood, during a visit to Ann Arbor. Coincidence? Maybe. But it feels like more than just a snapshot. Because Underwood is quickly becoming a recruiting magnet, drawing top-tier talent toward Michigan’s orbit. Fitzgerald now joins a growing list of elite names, making connections in maize and blue territory. So, the Wolverines might be playing chess while others play checkers.

As Michigan stacks up top recruits and flaunts those NIL deals, Underwood’s sway in Ann Arbor keeps growing. Fitzgerald’s recruitment is heating up under his influence, making the next few months key. But Devin Fitzgerald’s still weighing his options, and it’s a tight race for his commitment. Notre Dame’s WR coach, a recruiting ace, is making a strong push, but Michigan’s in the thick of it too. Freeman won’t have an easy time landing this NFL legend’s son with so many big programs vying for him.

If not Marcus Freeman, then who else?

Devin Fitzgerald lit up the field for Brophy Prep in 2023. The rising junior hauled in 52 catches for 720 yards, powering his squad to a strong 10-3 finish. Their season ended in heartbreak, with just one point shy of a 6A title shot, falling 28-27 to Mountain View. But Fitzgerald’s impact was anything but small. His breakout year didn’t just earn wins—it earned attention. Yes, Power Five schools came knocking, with offers from Duke, Cal, K-State, Arizona, UCLA, and more already on the table. Now, the spotlight is only getting brighter.

No surprise the buzz is building—Devin Fitzgerald is making waves coast to coast. And it’s not just Ann Arbor turning heads. Arizona State is firmly in the mix. After a visit to Tempe and a sit-down with ASU WRs coach Hines Ward, Devin was all smiles. “I’m grateful and excited to announce that I have received an offer from Arizona State University!” he shared. “Coach Hines Ward is a great coach, he’s a people person and you can tell he wants to see the best out of his guys.” One visit, and his view of the Sun Devils shifted big time.

Amid the buzz, Devin Fitzgerald had a legendary moment of his own. “I had the privilege of speaking with Coach @Belichick_B… and I am thrilled to announce that I have received an offer from the University of North Carolina!” he shared. Yes, GOAT Bill Belichick. Will Freeman’s hand beat out all the other coaches vying for Devin?