Wisconsin transfer wide receiver Will Pauling made headlines on Tuesday night by committing to Notre Dame. This exciting move adds another dynamic player to the Fighting Irish roster as they gear up for the upcoming season. Pauling, who has amassed an impressive 129 catches for 1,372 receiving yards and nine touchdowns over four years, will have one year of eligibility remaining to make an impact at Notre Dame.
Pauling’s Journey Through College Football
Before joining Notre Dame, Pauling began his college career at Cincinnati in 2021. His time there was marked by significant contributions, leading to a transfer to Wisconsin ahead of the 2023 season to follow head coach Luke Fickell. During his stint with the Badgers, Pauling showcased his skills, finishing the 2024 season with 42 catches for 407 yards and three touchdowns. In total, he played in 36 games across his college career, demonstrating his consistency and ability to perform on the field.
A Look at Pauling’s High School Career
Before stepping onto the college stage, Pauling honed his skills at Homewood-Flossmoor (Ill.) High School. There, he earned recognition as a three-star prospect and was ranked as the No. 1162 overall recruit in the 2021 recruiting cycle, according to the On3 Consensus. His high school achievements laid a solid foundation for his future in college football, and now he is ready to take the next step at Notre Dame.
What Pauling Brings to Notre Dame
As a graduate transfer, Pauling brings a wealth of experience and talent to the Fighting Irish. His ability to make plays and contribute to the offense will be crucial as Notre Dame looks to enhance its receiving corps. With one year left to play, Pauling has the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy at Notre Dame, and fans are eager to see how he will fit into the team’s plans.
Notre Dame’s Recent Transfer Success
Pauling isn’t the only new addition to the Notre Dame roster. The Irish recently welcomed another standout wide receiver, Malachi Fields, from the Virginia Cavaliers. Fields has made a name for himself in the ACC, earning third-team All-ACC honors this past season. He led Virginia with 55 receptions for 808 yards and five touchdowns, showcasing his ability to be a reliable target in the passing game.
Fields’ Impressive Performance at Virginia
Fields’ performance over the past two seasons has been nothing short of remarkable. He recorded over 800 receiving yards in back-to-back seasons, solidifying his status as one of the top wideouts in the ACC. His athleticism and skill set have not gone unnoticed, as he made Bruce Feldman’s “Freaks” List for the 2024 season, checking in at No. 66. Fields’ impressive testing numbers further illustrate his potential; he recorded a close-grip bench of 365 pounds and completed 21 reps at 225 pounds, along with a front squat of 355 pounds. His athletic prowess is complemented by a 38-inch vertical leap and a broad jump of 10 feet 7.5 inches, making him a formidable presence on the field.
Fields’ Path to Notre Dame
Malachi Fields signed with Virginia as a three-star recruit, ranked as the No. 49 athlete in the class of 2021, according to the On3 Industry Rankings. His college career began with promise, appearing in 11 games during his freshman season and making one start. He finished that year with 11 receptions for 172 yards, setting the stage for his breakout performances in subsequent seasons.
The Future Looks Bright for Notre Dame
With the addition of both Will Pauling and Malachi Fields, Notre Dame’s receiving corps is shaping up to be a force to be reckoned with. These two talented wide receivers bring a combination of experience, skill, and athleticism that can elevate the Fighting Irish’s offense. As they prepare for the upcoming season, fans are buzzing with excitement about the potential impact these players will have on the team’s success.
In a sport where every yard counts and every catch can change the game, the Fighting Irish are making strategic moves to bolster their roster. With Pauling’s experience and Fields’ explosive playmaking ability, Notre Dame is positioning itself to compete at a high level in college football. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on these new additions and how they contribute to the storied program. The anticipation is palpable, and the future is looking bright for Notre Dame football.
