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Newsstand: Notre Dame WR commit Kaydon Finley posts thoughtful message to final schools

Singer headshotby: Mike Singer07/08/25MikeTSinger
kaydon finley on3 fp
2026 WR Kaydon Finley during a Notre Dame visit Sept. 28, 2024 (Mike Miller/BGI)

On July 4, Aledo (Texas) High’s Kaydon Finley, who ranks as On3’s No. 120 overall player and No. 14 wide receiver in America, announced his commitment to Notre Dame over Arizona State, Texas, Texas A&M, UCLA and a long list of other programs. Finley has been a top Irish receiver target during the 2026 cycle, and Notre Dame got their guy.

A couple days after making his pledge public, Finley tweeted a classy message to the other schools he considered during his recruitment.

His statement is transcribed below:

Now that the dust has settled and I’ve committed to Notre Dame, I want to take intentional time to thank the other three programs that made my decision both incredibly meaningful and difficult.

The University of Texas
I have the utmost respect for Coach Sarkisian and his staff. UT has always been a special place for me and my family. Coach Jackson has become one of my most influential mentors throughout this process, and I’ll value our relationship forever. With guys like Arch Manning and Dia Bell leading the way, Texas is set up for big success and I wish them nothing but the best.

Arizona State
I can’t say enough about the leader the Sun Devils have in Coach Dillingham. He’s one of the most genuine players’ coaches I met during this journey. His staff reflects his energy and heart. Coach Ward changed the WR game in the league, and any receiver under his coaching will be lucky to have him. I’ll always be grateful for the love ASU showed me and my family. Y’all keep an eye on my guy Chris Johnson II this year on defense!

Texas A&M
It was tough stepping into enemy territory, being born into a Longhorn family. But Coach Elko, Coach Klein, and Coach Wiggins did everything they could to make me feel welcome. Coach Wiggins is serious when it comes to film breakdown and player development. One of the best I’ve seen. Through this recruitment, I’ve learned just how special a place A&M truly is.

I’m deeply thankful to every program that extended me an offer. I don’t take the blessing of relationships and opportunities lightly, and I’m immensely grateful for this entire process.

Ultimately, God led me to Notre Dame to compete under Coach Freeman. His plan for me is greater than my own and I can’t wait to see what the future holds. Go Irish!

All love,
Kaydon Finley

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Quote of the day

“Cornerbacks will have to fear Notre Dame’s receivers more. In the past, Notre Dame has had sure handed but sluggish receivers who no one feared deep. These guys are a big plus for whoever will be the quarterback in the future.”

— Prep Football Report recruiting analyst Tom Lemming on the Irish’s 2026 wide receiver class

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