Jackson Vaughn, a four-star recruit out of Bergen Catholic in New Jersey, announced his commitment to the University of Notre Dame on Wednesday, selecting the Fighting Irish over a slate of suitors that included Auburn, LSU, Miami and South Carolina.
The decision underscores a recruiting class that continues to attract top talent, as Vaughn brings a blend of size, speed and versatility that coaches say fits the program’s evolving offensive scheme. His high school résumé features All‑America honors, multiple state championships and a recent reclassification from the class of 2028 to 2027, propelling his profile into the national conversation.
Vaughn cited the academic reputation of Notre Dame and the promise of early playing time as key draws, while also highlighting the relationships he has built with head coach Marcus Freeman and assistant coach Charlie Partridge. He will join the campus in January, a timeline that allows him to take part in spring practices and begin shaping the next wave of recruiting efforts.
A Family Affair
The commitment also carries a personal dimension: his older brother Noah Vaughn, a running back at the University of Virginia, has been a mentor throughout the process, illustrating how family ties can intersect with athletic ambition.