Tony Alford has spent plenty of time in Florida since the BCS National Championship Game trying to secure Notre Dame’s 2013 recruiting class, but the Irish assistant has also been working on future classes.
Earlier this month, he stopped by Dwyer High School in West Palm Beach, Fla., to check on 2014 wide receiver Johnnie Dixon and other prospects. Dixon didn’t get the chance to meet with Alford since NCAA rules prohibit extensive contact with underclassmen prospects at this time of year.
“My coach gave him my information and he left me his card,” said Dixon. “My coach said they were interested and we’re going to hook up and talk on Facebook.”
Still, Dixon was excited to have the Irish continue to show interest.
“They have a rich tradition,” he said. “They had a great season. They can use it as a stepping stone for the program. All of that and all of the players they’re going to get I’m sure will be real good for them.”
If Notre Dame were to offer, Dixon would give the Irish a serious look.
“I would definitely consider them and probably take a visit most likely,” he said.
Dixon already has double-digit offers from programs like Florida, Florida State, Miami, Alabama, Ohio State and West Virginia among others.
“I feel blessed to have all of the offers,” he said. “I feel like I’ve worked hard, so I deserve them. God has just blessed me with so many right now.”
Dixon is listed right around 6 feet and 175 pounds. He says he runs a 4.4, but has clocked much faster times.
“I ran a 4.2 before, but on a track,” he said. “I ran a 4.29 on the track one day when I was a little lighter.”
With those kinds of numbers along with the 39 passes he caught for 711 yards and eight touchdowns as a junior, it’s no surprise that he’s landed on the radar of the nation’s top schools.
“I guess that I’m physical and I’m big and I can run still,” he said. “I’m a playmaker and I’m pretty sure coaches like that.”
Dixon has been to Miami’s junior day and went to a game at Florida this fall.
“I don’t have any other visits plans yet, but I’m definitely trying to get out and around,” he said.
He has a clear idea of what he’s looking for in a college.
“Education will be first. Coaches that are going to be there when I get there and aren’t planning on leaving. I’m also looking for a team with a tradition, a bunch of hard working guys.”
