Notre Dame’s quarterback recruiting efforts in the Class of 2027 received a significant boost when Connecticut signal-caller Keegan Croucher delivered standout performance at the Under Armour New Jersey Regional.
The talented prospect’s post-camp comments about potentially returning to South Bend have given Marcus Freeman’s staff renewed optimism in their pursuit.

MVP Performance Sparks Notre Dame Optimism
Croucher capped off an impressive showing at the Under Armour camp by claiming MVP honors among a competitive field of quarterbacks.
When asked about his goal entering the event, the Cheshire Academy standout remained focused on improvement, stating, “just having fun competing uh getting better I think getting back on the road and competing you know it’s very exciting.”
The 6’4″ quarterback’s performance comes at a crucial time in his recruitment with Notre Dame. Having previously visited South Bend and worked out for quarterbacks coach Gino Guidugli, Croucher revealed his intentions to maintain that relationship.
“I think uh I might go back out during the summer, go to a camp and throw in front of him,” he shared, indicating his continued interest in the Irish program.
Regarding Notre Dame’s timeline for extending an offer, Croucher provided encouraging news for Irish fans.
“I think the next couple weeks, if not, I’ll go to camp and we’ll see,” he explained when asked about potential offer timing. This suggests Notre Dame remains actively engaged in his recruitment and could make their move soon.
Championship Culture Draws Elite Prospect’s Attention
When pressed about Notre Dame’s appeal among his numerous high-profile offers, Croucher highlighted the program’s winning tradition and development track record.
“I think the history you know, the past developing QBs, Coach Duly and Coach Freeman have done a great job over there, Coach Mike Drock has done an awesome job,” he noted, praising the Irish coaching staff’s quarterback development.
The national championship game appearance clearly resonated with the Connecticut prospect.
“And you know there’s a championship national-level team,” Croucher added, emphasizing Notre Dame’s elite status. This aligns with his stated priorities of “competing for national championship every year” when evaluating potential destinations.
Croucher’s recruitment timeline suggests a measured approach to his decision. When asked about narrowing his options, he indicated “possibly this summer if not in the season or after season.”
His decision criteria center on “the connections I have with the coaches the relationships and you know developing QB,” factors that could favor Notre Dame given his established rapport with the Irish staff.
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Notre Dame’s persistence in pursuing Croucher appears to be paying dividends, with the elite prospect expressing genuine interest in returning to campus and praising the program’s championship pedigree.
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