Notre Dame Secures Visit from Highly Sought-After 2027 4-Star Safety

Gavin Williams, a top-ranked safety prospect, will visit South Bend in June.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

Notre Dame's newly hired defensive backs coach Aaron Henry has secured the final spring visit from four-star safety Gavin Williams, a top-145 ranked player in the 2027 class. Williams, who plays at Damien High School in La Verne, California, is considering the Irish along with several other top programs including USC, UCLA, Washington, and Texas A&M.

Why it matters

Landing a highly touted safety prospect like Gavin Williams would be a major recruiting win for Notre Dame, as the Irish look to reload their secondary with elite talent. Williams is considered a prototype safety with a reputation for his range, ball skills, and tackling ability.

The details

The 6-foot-1, 180-pound Williams is the No. 145 ranked player in the 2027 class and the No. 14 safety, according to the 247 Sports Composite. In addition to his defensive prowess, he has also played wide receiver for Damien High. Notre Dame's coaching staff, led by head coach Marcus Freeman and defensive backs coach Aaron Henry, will have their work cut out for them as they compete with several other top programs for Williams' commitment.

  • Gavin Williams announced that he will visit Notre Dame on June 19.

The players

Gavin Williams

A four-star safety prospect in the 2027 class, ranked as the No. 145 overall player and No. 14 safety in the nation. He plays at Damien High School in La Verne, California.

Aaron Henry

The newly hired defensive backs coach at Notre Dame, who is considered one of the top recruiters in the country and will be leading the charge to land Gavin Williams.

Marcus Freeman

The head coach of the Notre Dame football team, who will be involved in the recruitment of Gavin Williams alongside defensive backs coach Aaron Henry.

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What’s next

The June 19 visit to Notre Dame will be the final stop in Gavin Williams' spring visit schedule, giving the Irish coaching staff a chance to make a final push to secure his commitment.

The takeaway

Notre Dame's ability to land a top-ranked safety prospect like Gavin Williams would be a significant recruiting victory, as the Irish look to reload their secondary with elite talent and compete for a spot in the College Football Playoff.