Notre Dame football’s 2025 recruiting class continues to gain steam, and recent headlines from the Rivals Five-Star Challenge in Atlanta only add to the momentum. Four-star linebacker and Irish commit Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng was named one of the top overall performers at the prestigious event, turning heads with his elite athleticism, football IQ, and physicality in space.
Owusu-Boateng, who committed to Notre Dame in the spring, has quickly become one of the cornerstones of Marcus Freeman’s recruiting class. At the Five-Star Challenge, the Florida native made his case as one of the top linebackers in the nation, competing against a loaded field of national talent. Whether in one-on-one coverage, blitzing drills, or team competition segments, he stood out for his versatility and ability to impact the game in multiple ways.
Analysts praised Owusu-Boateng for his explosiveness, range, and instinctive play recognition. Despite playing among the best of the best, he consistently made splash plays, showcasing his sideline-to-sideline speed and ability to cover tight ends and backs in space—something that translates well to the modern college game. His physical frame and smooth footwork also stood out, especially during linebacker-versus-running back matchups.
What made his performance even more impressive was his composure and leadership. Several analysts noted his vocal presence on the field, encouraging teammates and bringing high energy throughout the sessions. That type of maturity aligns perfectly with Notre Dame’s culture under