Notre Dame Made A Strong First Impression On Indiana Pass Rusher JJ Finch

Notre Dame impressed 2026 defensive end JJ Finch during his recent visit to campus

2026 defensive end JJ Finch / JJ Finch

Notre Dame certainly wants to make sure it is keeping impact in-state talent from leaving the Hoosier State. One player the Irish are hoping to keep in-state in the 2026 class is Indianapolis (Ind.) Warren Central pass rusher Jerimy “JJ” Finch, who was one of a small group of local standouts offered during the Pot of Gold offer push a few weeks ago on St. Patrick’s Day. 

This week, Finch made the trip to Notre Dame. He spent the day checking out the campus and practice, coming away impressed with the energy around the program. 

"It was a great visit,” Finch told Irish Breakdown. "Meeting with the coaches and staff one on one was great. It helps to be able to develop relationships with them as individuals. The players and coaches seemed to have good relationships between them."

A part of this trip was hearing the pitch from the Irish staff. n film, Finch is a versatile defender who moves all around the defensive line for Warren Central. That ability to line up everywhere, and impact the game, is something Notre Dame is very intrigued about. 

"They see me as a versatile athlete who can move around in the defense as needed,” said Finch. "I can be used all over the defensive line potentially.” 

Following the visit, Finch was incredibly impressed by everything that the Irish could provide. There are also tentative plans for Finch to return this weekend again to South Bend, which would be huge for their recruiting momentum. The Indiana star is not shy about his high opinion of the program so far. 

“Notre Dame is high on my list,” he explained. “They showed me that I can come in and fit right in with the program. Notre Dame is not like other programs or universities .... they're a family.” 

Recruiting is just beginning to heat up for Finch. He currently holds offers from the Fighting Irish, Louisville Indiana, Marshall, Toledo, Central Michigan, Western Michigan and Jackson State. That number promises to increase very quickly.

The 6-3, 240-pound defender put together a really impressive sophomore season for Warren Central. As a part of a deep and talented pass rush, Finch collected 41 total tackles, 14 tackles for loss and three sacks. Finch also forced two fumbles, recovered another, broke up a pass and blocked a kick on the season.

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