Elite 2027 Defensive Back Set to Visit Notre Dame for Spring Game

Notre Dame will host one of the nation's top overall recruits for the annual spring game in April.

Feb. 10, 2026 at 5:55pm

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Notre Dame is set to host Honor Fa'alave Johnson, a highly-touted defensive back prospect in the 2027 recruiting class, for the program's annual spring game on April 24. Johnson, a 6-1, 190-pound safety ranked as one of the top overall players in his class, will be making the trip to South Bend as part of a broader spring visit schedule that includes several top college football programs.

Why it matters

Hosting elite recruits like Johnson for the spring game is a key part of Notre Dame's recruiting strategy, as the Fighting Irish look to continue building a top-ranked 2027 recruiting class despite the recent departure of defensive backs coach Mike Mickens to the NFL.

The details

Johnson, who stars on both offense and defense at Cathedral Catholic High School in San Diego, has racked up over 2,000 total yards and 30 touchdowns as a junior. He holds scholarship offers from top programs across the country, including Alabama, Georgia, Ohio State, and others. Notre Dame currently has seven players committed in the 2027 class, with Johnson's visit set to be a major recruiting weekend for the Fighting Irish.

  • Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman visited Johnson out west last month.
  • Johnson announced plans to visit Notre Dame on April 24, the date of the program's annual spring game.

The players

Honor Fa'alave Johnson

A 6-1, 190-pound safety ranked as one of the top overall players in the 2027 recruiting class, regardless of position.

Marcus Freeman

The head coach of the Notre Dame football team.

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What they’re saying

“Gamer that can take over games and in a variety of different ways.”

— Andrew Ivins, 247Sports recruiting analyst

What’s next

Notre Dame will look to make a strong impression on Johnson during his visit for the spring game, as the Fighting Irish aim to secure a commitment from the elite defensive back prospect.

The takeaway

Notre Dame's ability to host top recruits like Honor Fa'alave Johnson for the annual spring game is a key part of the program's recruiting strategy, as the Fighting Irish work to build another elite class in 2027 despite recent staff changes.