notre dame offers ‘28 illinois OL joseph frierdich

This past weekend was full of big-time visitors to South Bend and 2028 offensive lineman Joseph Frierdich of Carbondale (Ill.) Carbondale Community was one of those talented players who came to experience what Notre Dame had to offer and he got what he came for as they extended an offer to him.

When he arrived on campus, the 6-7 260-pounder held three offers from Illinois, Arizona, and Wisconsin. He was in contact with the staff leading up to his visit, which he eagerly looked forward to because of the history and tradition of Notre Dame. Getting an offer this past weekend wasn’t a thought, but it is a moment that will always stands out as a once in a lifetime opportunity.

“The visit was great,” Frierdich told LL. “We got a chance to sit in the team meeting and get up close and personal during practice. We had a great campus tour and got to see and learn about the history and tradition.

“The offer was unexpected,” Frierdich continued. “This honestly feels amazing. They just gave me a once in a lifetime opportunity. I had a meeting with them (Coach Rudolph and Delaney) and that’s when they offered me.”

Frierdich is very well aware of the rich history of offensive line play and development at Notre Dame, and getting a chance to watch offensive line coach Joe Rudolph and assistant offensive line coach Rob Delaney operate during practice confirmed for him that the staff knows what they’re doing.

“The practice was great,” Frierdich said. “Everything ran smoothly and the all of the players looked like they were having a lot of fun competing. The o-line looked good.

“The way the coaches coached stood out for me,” Frierdich continued. “They said things in a way that was very understandable and professional, and I like that in a coach. I think it’s the best way for players to learn. Their coaching style is awesome.”

It’s still early in his recruiting process, but the talented lineman saw enough during his visit to place the Irish firmly at the top heading into the summer, with a return to South Bend already penciled in.

“As of right now, Notre Dame is my top school,” Frierdich said. “The next thing I need to do is get some more visits in and hopefully go to some games in the future. I already have a visit (Irish Invasion) set up for the beginning of June. I’m excited about all of this.”

His length and athleticism jump of the screen as you watch film, whether stifling opponents with blocks in the run game or  stretching the middle of the field as pass-catching tight end. He makes plays on the other side of the line of scrimmage as well. His talents are not limited to the gridiron, as the two-sport athlete shines in track and fields in the discus and shot-put.