St. Joseph (Indiana) safety James Criniti announced his commitment to the University of Notre Dame

St. Joseph (Indiana) safety James Criniti announced his commitment to the University of Notre Dame

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James Criniti Flips Commitment to Notre Dame

St. Joseph (Indiana) safety James Criniti announced his commitment to the University of Notre Dame on Wednesday, confirming he will join the program as a preferred walk-on. The 6-foot-1, 210-pound prospect previously held a commitment to Central Michigan, 247Sports reported.

In a social media post, Criniti expressed gratitude to the Central Michigan coaching staff for their support, but stated that the opportunity to attend his "dream school" was one he could not pass up. Criniti initially committed to the Chippewas on June 17, 2026, following an official visit to Mount Pleasant. The 3-star recruit also held offers from Army and Butler.

Local Prospect Joins Irish Roster

Criniti has maintained a consistent presence on the Notre Dame campus throughout the year. According to 247Sports, he visited South Bend for a jersey scrimmage in April and returned for the Irish Invasion camp in June. Following his April visit, he noted that the coaching staff wanted to see him work out in person, adding, "I am hoping that I can keep building a relationship with the staff, because this is a place I truly could see myself playing in the future."

His on-field performance this fall for the 9-2 Huskies includes 69 tackles, four tackles for a loss, three interceptions, and two forced fumbles. During a standout performance against South Bend Riley on October 2, Criniti recorded 12 tackles, four tackles for loss, and a forced fumble in a 28-6 win.

Criniti Contributes to Offense and Special Teams

Beyond his defensive contributions, Criniti has been a frequent playmaker on offense and special teams. This season, he has recorded 17 receptions for 434 yards, averaging 25.5 yards per catch with four touchdowns. He has also added seven carries for 32 yards and one score, alongside 66 punt-return yards. His special teams experience includes 268 punt-return yards and 25 kickoff-return yards.

Defensive Backs Class Status

Notre Dame has been conducting an extensive search to finalize its 2027 defensive backs class. The addition of Criniti addresses this need, though the status of other potential recruits remains under review.

Irish Illustrated is currently investigating whether this commitment impacts the recruitment of Daveon Belhomme. Belhomme, an ascending senior prospect, is scheduled to take an official visit to Notre Dame on November 14.

[Author Name] argues James Criniti commit is a major Notre Dame win
Photo: slapthesign.com

Questions About James Criniti’s Recruitment and Performance

What is the status of James Criniti’s recruitment?
Criniti is now committed to Notre Dame as a preferred walk-on. He officially decommitted from Central Michigan, where he had been pledged since June 17, 2026.

How does Criniti’s performance compare to other local prospects?
During his junior season in 2025, Criniti recorded 108 tackles and eight interceptions, helping lead St. Joseph to an Indiana Class 4A regional championship. Through 10 games this season, his three interceptions currently tie him for the conference lead.

Will Notre Dame continue to recruit other defensive backs?
The program is still evaluating its options for the 2027 class. Daveon Belhomme remains on the recruiting radar and is expected to visit South Bend on November 14.

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