It’s always been important for Jimmy Byrne to make his college decision early and on Saturday, the 2014 Cleveland offensive lineman made his as he announced his commitment to Notre Dame.
"Wanted to let you guys know I talked to coach Kelly this morning and committed to ND," texted Byrne.
The 6-foot-4, 285-pounder from St. Ignatius High School chose the Irish over his other top choice, Ohio State. He also had offers from Michigan State and West Virginia among others.
Byrne gives the Irish four verbal commitments in the Class of 2014, joining wide receiver Justin Brent, linebacker Greer Martini and defensive lineman Jay Hayes.
Byrne picked up an offer from the Irish during an unofficial visit to South Bend this summer. He returned again for Notre Dame’s game against Michigan in September before visiting Ohio State in November to see the Buckeyes play Michigan.
Along with academics, coaching was one of the key factors Byrne identified early on - specifically offensive line coaches - and it was clear from the beginning that he was struck with Notre Dame offensive line coach Harry Hiestand.
“The first time I met Coach Hiestand, I was just really impressed with him,” Byrne told ISD in the summer. “When I got to work with him when I visited there, I just knew he was a coach I could play with the next four years and really learn a lot from.”
Now Byrne will be taking advantage of that opportunity.
Check back for much more with the Irish’s newest commit soon.
