For the second day in a row, Notre Dame’s football team has landed a commitment from a Duke transfer.
On Tuesday, Duke quarterback Riley Leonard announced on social media that he’s heading to Notre Dame. He was sensational for the Blue Devils in 2022, racking up 2,967 passing yards and 33 total touchdowns.
Roughly 24 hours later, Duke transfer RJ Oben revealed that he’s following Leonard to South Bend. The talented edge rusher believes Notre Dame’s staff will get the best out of him.
“I love the coaching staff and feel like the defensive philosophy is one that I can excel in,” Oben said, via On3. “Coach Washington displayed to me a solid plan for how I can improve as a player that I appreciated. Coach Golden also runs an NFL-style, top tier defense that I’m excited to be a part of. I’ve had a familiarity with the school considering the history of players from Jersey and a couple from my high school specifically that have had success there, and I believe I can come to ND and succeed as well. The school’s national network and that level of exposure is unmatched.”
Oben had 67 total tackles, 14 sacks and four forced fumbles for Duke from 2019-2023.
🚨BREAKING: Duke transfer EDGE RJ Oben has committed to Notre Dame.https://t.co/ZklXQ3eVf8 pic.twitter.com/1WtsaEbe5m
— Transfer Portal (@TransferPortal_) December 13, 2023
If Oben and Leonard play up to their potential, Notre Dame should feel fairly good about its roster for the 2024 season.
We’ll see if Notre Dame adds a bit more talent via the transfer portal.