Notre Dame’s football legacy is set to continue as Pro Football Hall of Famer Jerome Bettis Sr. watches his children, Jerome Bettis Jr. and Jada Bettis, carve their own paths within the Fighting Irish community. In a recent conversation with Mike Singer, Bettis Sr. shared his thoughts on his children’s involvement at Notre Dame, reflecting on his own experiences and the significance of their choices.
Jerome Bettis Jr.: Following a Legacy
Jerome Bettis Jr., a 6-foot-2, 201-pound wide receiver from Woodward Academy in Atlanta, Georgia, committed to Notre Dame in March 2024. His decision to join the Fighting Irish was influenced by a desire to honor his father’s legacy while establishing his own identity on the field. Despite offers from schools like Texas A&M, Duke, and Ole Miss, Bettis Jr. felt a unique connection to Notre Dame.
“They made sure super early on that it was known they recruited me for me and not my father,” Bettis Jr. shared. “They wanted me to know that they want Jerome Bettis Jr. at Notre Dame because of what he can bring, not just because of what comes along with me and my name.”
During his high school career, Bettis Jr. showcased versatility, playing both offense and defense. In his senior year, he recorded 36 receptions for 630 yards and eight touchdowns, alongside 47 tackles and three interceptions on defense.
Jada Bettis: Integrating into the Notre Dame Community
While not a player on the football team, Jada Bettis contributes to the Notre Dame football program in a significant capacity. As a freshman, she has immersed herself in the university’s culture, embodying the values and spirit of the Fighting Irish. Her involvement underscores the family’s deep-rooted connection to Notre Dame and highlights the diverse roles women can play in collegiate athletics.
Jerome Bettis Sr.: A Full-Circle Moment
For Jerome Bettis Sr., witnessing his children’s integration into the Notre Dame community is profoundly meaningful. Having left the university early for a successful NFL career, Bettis Sr. returned to complete his business degree in 2022, fulfilling a promise to his mother. “I promised my mother that I would finish and get my degree,” he reflected. “For them to see dad finishing a commitment that he set out 30 years ago—I think says a lot to them in terms of what they can do with their lives.”
Bettis Sr. acknowledges the challenges and opportunities his children will encounter at Notre Dame. He emphasizes the importance of education and personal growth, values that align with the university’s mission. “This is education related, and you can never take away the education,” he noted. “That’s the message that I’m sending my children, but also the message that I want everybody to know.”
The Bettis Legacy: Beyond the Gridiron
The Bettis family’s involvement at Notre Dame extends beyond athletic achievements. Their story reflects themes of perseverance, commitment, and the enduring value of education. As Jerome Jr. and Jada embark on their respective journeys, they carry forward a legacy that intertwines family heritage with the rich traditions of Notre Dame.
In sharing his insights with Mike Singer, Jerome Bettis Sr. offers a narrative that resonates with many—honoring the past while embracing the future, all within the storied halls of Notre Dame.