He brings 4.43 speed to South Bend 
Great get for the Fighting Irish. 
Notre Dame has secured a major offensive weapon in the 2026 recruiting class as elite wide receiver Bubba Frazier announced his commitment to the Fighting Irish, choosing South Bend over a final group that included North Carolina, Wisconsin, Penn State, and Miami. A consensus four-star recruit, Frazier brings elite speed, playmaking ability, and versatility to a program looking to take its passing game to the next level under head coach Marcus Freeman and offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock.
Clocking in with verified 4.43-second 40-yard dash speed, Frazier is widely regarded as one of the most explosive receivers in the country. At 6-foot, 180 pounds, he combines track-star acceleration with strong route-running and reliable hands, giving Notre Dame a legitimate deep threat and a player capable of stretching defenses both vertically and horizontally.
“Notre Dame felt like home,” Frazier said in his commitment video. “The tradition, the coaching staff, the academics—it’s everything I was looking for. And I can’t wait to get to work.”
A Major Recruiting Win for Marcus Freeman
The recruitment of Bubba Frazier was highly competitive from the start. Programs across the country valued his combination of athleticism and production. As a junior at South Gwinnett High School in Georgia, Frazier racked up over 1,200 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns, adding another 400+ yards on special teams. He consistently dominated elite-level competition in the Peach State and stood out at several major camps and 7-on-7 events, solidifying his status as a top-tier recruit.
For Notre Dame, landing Frazier represents a huge recruiting victory—not only because of the player’s talent, but also because of who the Irish beat out. North Carolina had long been viewed as the frontrunner, offering early and hosting him for multiple visits. Wisconsin made a strong late push with their wide-open offensive vision, and Penn State offered compelling NIL opportunities. Despite the competition, Notre Dame’s culture and long-term vision ultimately won Frazier over.
“Coach Freeman is building something special,” Frazier added. “It’s not just talk. They believe in developing players the right way and preparing us for life after football.”
Scheme Fit and Early Impact Potential
From a football standpoint, Frazier is an ideal fit for what Notre Dame hopes to build on offense. Under Denbrock, the Irish have prioritized speed and playmaking on the perimeter, adding dynamic weapons through both high school recruiting and the transfer portal. Frazier will enter a wide receiver room that’s becoming increasingly deep, but he has the kind of rare traits that could lead to early playing time—even as a freshman.
His straight-line speed allows him to take the top off defenses, forcing safeties to stay honest. But he’s far more than just a burner. Frazier has shown polished footwork and technique as a route runner, able to create separation on short and intermediate routes as well. His ability to work from the slot or the outside gives Denbrock added flexibility in designing schemes and matchups.
“I want to be a guy defenses have to game-plan around,” Frazier said. “Line me up inside, outside, on jet sweeps—whatever it takes. I’m trying to score every time I touch the ball.”
Elevating the Wide Receiver Room
For years, Notre Dame has been known more for its physicality and defense than explosive offense. But that narrative has been shifting. The Irish have become increasingly aggressive on the recruiting trail at wide receiver, landing players like Cam Williams and Micah Gilbert in recent cycles. Adding Bubba Frazier to that mix continues that upward trajectory.
Analysts have already compared Frazier’s potential impact to that of former Irish star Will Fuller, another burner who developed into a first-round NFL Draft pick.
“He’s got that electric gear where you blink and he’s gone,” said one national scout. “Once he adds a little more strength to his frame, he’s going to be a nightmare for defensive backs.”
Notre Dame’s staff has emphasized speed and explosion as critical needs for competing with the nation’s elite. In Bubba Frazier, they’ve found a prospect who can change games with a single touch.
Character and Leadership
Beyond the field, Frazier brings maturity and leadership qualities that align perfectly with Notre Dame’s culture. A 3.8 GPA student with a strong commitment to academics, he’s been praised by coaches and teammates for his humility, work ethic, and team-first mindset.
“He’s one of the hardest workers I’ve ever coached,” said South Gwinnett head coach Deon Sapp. “And he leads by example. He’s the kind of kid who’ll be successful wherever he goes, because he does things the right way.”
That mindset is exactly what Marcus Freeman and his staff have sought to cultivate since arriving in South Bend—players who not only perform at a high level but represent the university with class and integrity.
What’s Next for Frazier and the Irish?
Frazier plans to enroll early at Notre Dame, joining the program in January to get a jump start on spring ball and immerse himself in the offensive system. Until then, he’ll continue preparing for a dominant senior season and mentoring younger players at South Gwinnett.
As for the Irish, they continue building a 2026 class that’s now anchored by one of the most explosive wide receivers in the country. With momentum growing on the recruiting trail and a clear offensive identity taking shape, the commitment of Bubba Frazier could be a defining moment in Notre Dame’s push toward playoff contention.