Elite Irish commit Dallas Golden reflects on Notre Dame pledge
On April 28, Tampa (Fla.) Berkeley Prep’s Dallas Golden announced his decision to commit to Notre Dame, picking the Irish over Florida State, Clemson, Georgia, Miami and others. And in the past couple weeks, the four-star defensive back has been enjoying the committed life.
“It’s a blessing,” Golden told Blue & Gold after one of his spring practices earlier this month. “I’ve been getting a lot of support from my friends, family and [high school] staff. I’m living the dream right now.”
Golden had all the heavy hitters in the South after him, but he’s taking his talents to the Midwest and will play for the Fighting Irish. Those close to him are excited about his choice.
“They were pumped for sure,” he said. “It didn’t catch them off guard because I’ve been up to Notre Dame a couple times, but it also was a surprise to them.”
And in the weeks since his commitment, Golden hasn’t seen his communication change in the slightest with the Irish staff.
“It’s been the same,” he said. “I’m talking to Coach [Al] Golden, Coach [Marcus] Freeman, Coach [Mike] Mickens and Chad [Bowden]. Those are the main guys.”
While it’s all sunshine when it comes to Golden and Notre Dame, one aspect of committing that most people don’t realize is the break up that occurs between a recruit and the schools he considered but didn’t commit to.
Before announcing his pledge to Notre Dame, Golden had to make a few calls to other coaches.
“It was tough,” he said. “You build relationships over time, but I still have a goal to reach. My dad and I talked to the coaches who recruited us the most in the most respectful way we can.”
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Golden notes that he hasn’t been in communication with other college coaches since making his decision public. His full focus is on the Fighting Irish, and he’s fired up about the Freeman’s third season as ND’s head coach.
“I watched their spring game, and they looked really good,” said Golden. “I’m excited about the team.”
Golden, who ranks as the nation’s No. 103 overall player and No. 12 safety according to the 2025 On3 Industry Ranking, will be used all over the field at Berkeley Prep, just as he did in his state championship-winning junior season. You can expect to see him playing running back, receiver and in the secondary.
He’s committed to the Irish as a cornerback; does he want to play more of that position to prepare him for the next level?
“I wouldn’t have a problem with it,” he answered. “I just want to do what’s best for the team. I know that at the next level I’ll be playing corner, for sure.”
Golden, who will be back in South Bend June 7 for his official visit, doesn’t have personal goals for his senior year. It’s all team focused.
“Not really. Just win,” he said.
