underrated ‘26 wr rob larson dominates at irish invasion
The Irish Invasion hosted some highly ranked players across the 2027 and 2028 recruiting classes, but the best camp performance may have been a surprise to onlookers and the Fighting Irish staff. 6-3 185-pound wide receiver Rob Larson of Folsom (Ca.) Folsom stole the show in the eyes of many. No one was able to guard the three-star pass catcher as he showed elite route running ability, body control and ridiculous ball-catching skills. What makes this story even more intriguing is Larson being able to put on a performance of a lifetime for his favorite school.
“The camp was amazing,” Larson said. “It was definitely special being able to showcase my abilities at my favorite school. I really enjoyed meeting the coaches in person and spending some quality time with them after the camp. Notre Dame is a great place and just being there and seeing the campus is a surreal feeling.”
WR Coach Mike Brown might have been laser focused on building relationships with some of the higher ranked campers, but Larson quickly grabbed his attention as the two shared head nods and high-fives after several spectacular catches, and the growing connection didn’t stop after the camp ended.
“I’m extremely grateful for everything,” Larson shared. “I got to spend a ton of time with Coach (Mike) Brown and he was impressed with what he saw from me. Going into camp, Coach Brown didn’t know much about me, but I think I’m definitely on their radar now for sure.
Larson shares a love for the Fighting Irish with his father, so every aspect of his experience was met with gratitude from getting the opportunity to compete all the way to meeting current players and coaches. It’s a moment that will be bookmarked for Larson and his family.
“It started when I was 10,” Larson explained. “I told my dad that I wanted to be in the NFL and he told me that college is the main goal, and to pick a team that I love. That’s when my dad and I started watching Notre Dame a lot. We fell in love everything the school was about. From the fans to the school and most importantly football.
“A year later, I got a chance to run routes with Ian Book,” Larson continued. “I really started to follow Ian’s journey and keep up with ND football. I’ve also trained with Rico Flores a lot and he has nothing but great things to say about it.”
After posting 25 receptions, 500 yards and 5 touchdowns as a sophomore, Larson knows there’s still work to do, and he’s steadfast on putting in work to ensure that he can have as big of a junior year as possible.
“Some of my goals are to just stay consistent in the gym,” Larson said. “Putting in work every day no matter the weather. Consistently getting better with my speed, catching and routes, so I can have as big of a junior year as possible.”
Larson currently holds offers from programs like Arizona State, Colorado State and UNLV.
Shaun M. Davis
