Notre Dame Receiver Emerges as Key Leader

Jordan Faison's commitment to football pays off as he mentors younger players.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 2:50pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a Notre Dame football player making a catch, with the player's form broken down into overlapping planes of navy blue and gold.Notre Dame's Jordan Faison emerges as a key leader, mentoring younger receivers as the team aims for a championship.Notre Dame Today

Jordan Faison, a Notre Dame wide receiver, has transformed from a young player striving to get ahead while playing two sports into a leader who mentors his fellow receivers. His coaches and teammates have recognized Faison's growth in leadership both on and off the field, as he focuses solely on football after previously playing lacrosse as well.

Why it matters

Faison's leadership and mentorship of younger players is seen as vital for the Notre Dame football team as they aim to win it all this season. His decision to commit fully to football after dealing with nagging injuries from playing two sports could pay big dividends for the team's success.

The details

Wide receiver coach Mike Brown highlighted Faison's strides, noting his great example for the young players in how he approaches film study, practice, and his overall work ethic. Faison admitted he still misses playing lacrosse, but knew he had to make the tough decision to focus solely on football in order to stay healthy and maximize his potential. Last season, Faison led the Irish with 49 catches for 640 yards and 4 touchdowns, and his coaches expect even bigger things from him this fall.

  • Faison made the decision to focus only on football last spring.
  • In the 2025 season, Faison had a breakout year, leading Notre Dame in receptions, yards, and touchdowns.

The players

Jordan Faison

A Notre Dame wide receiver who has emerged as a key leader on the team after committing fully to football and leaving lacrosse behind.

Mike Brown

The wide receiver coach at Notre Dame who has praised Faison's leadership and mentorship of younger players.

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What they’re saying

“'The player is the player, but more important than that is just his leadership and the way guys look up to him. He's a great example for the young guys in how he goes about his business, how he studies film, how he works, how he practices. All of those things.'”

— Mike Brown, Wide Receiver Coach

“'Going out there and watching the lacrosse games, it hurts a little bit not being out there with your brothers. You miss a sport you used to play, but I had to make a decision.'”

— Jordan Faison

What’s next

Faison will look to build on his breakout 2025 season and continue to provide strong leadership for the Notre Dame football team as they aim to win a championship in 2026.

The takeaway

Faison's transformation from a young player juggling two sports to a key leader and mentor on the Notre Dame football team underscores the importance of focus and commitment. His decision to prioritize football has paid off, and his leadership is seen as vital for the team's success this season.