Top Notre Dame football target Dre Quinn and his transfer between Georgia high school

The standout wide receiver from Georgia is set to transfer high schools this summer, a move that’s already rippling through the college football recruiting landscape. While high school transfers have become increasingly common in the NIL and transfer portal era, Quinn’s decision is noteworthy for several reasons. Not only is he one of the top playmakers in the Southeast, but his transfer could also have significant implications for how his recruitment plays out in the coming months—and Notre Dame is watching closely.

Quinn has long been viewed as a blue-chip prospect. With a combination of blazing speed, refined route running, and elite body control, he has quickly emerged as one of the most dynamic receivers in the nation. Standing 6-foot-1 and weighing around 185 pounds, he possesses the physical tools that college programs crave. He’s equally comfortable lining up outside or in the slot and can take the top off a defense or eat up yards on underneath routes. His high school tape has drawn comparisons to some of the most explosive receivers in college football, and his football IQ, work ethic, and maturity have only added to his appeal.

For Notre Dame, Quinn has been a primary target since early in the 2026 cycle. The Fighting Irish coaching staff, led by head coach Marcus Freeman and wide receivers coach Chansi Stuckey, has prioritized building a strong connection with Quinn and his family. They’ve made multiple trips to Georgia to watch him in person and have hosted him for unofficial visits in South Bend. The Irish pitch is centered not only on playing time and offensive fit but also on development, education, and life beyond football. Quinn, who comes from a family that places a high value on academics and character, has responded well to Notre Dame’s holistic approach.

Until recently, Quinn had played for a respected program in the Atlanta metro area, one known for producing Division I talent. His decision to transfer was not made lightly, according to sources close to the family. It wasn’t about playing time or conflicts with coaches but rather about positioning himself in a better environment both athletically and academically. His new school, reportedly a rising powerhouse just outside the Atlanta perimeter, offers an upgraded strength program, increased national exposure, and a more competitive schedule. The move could allow Quinn to face stiffer competition week in and week out, giving college evaluators a clearer picture of his ceiling.

Transfers like Quinn’s often reflect the broader strategic thinking of elite recruits. In today’s landscape, where early commitments and national attention can shape a player’s trajectory well before senior year, every decision matters. By choosing a program that will challenge him and maximize his skill set, Quinn is demonstrating a focus and maturity that college coaches value. For Notre Dame, the transfer could be a positive development. The increased spotlight and high-profile matchups may give Quinn more opportunities to shine, potentially strengthening his bond with a staff that prides itself on developing players who thrive under pressure.

Recruiting insiders suggest that Notre Dame remains in excellent shape with Quinn despite aggressive pushes from SEC programs like Georgia, Alabama, and Florida. Texas and Michigan have also been in steady contact. Still, the Irish have consistently been mentioned among his top options, and the relationships built with the staff appear genuine. Quinn has spoken favorably about the Notre Dame tradition, its national platform, and its emphasis on character. He’s also reportedly developed a strong rapport with Marcus Freeman, who’s taken a hands-on role in recruiting several top offensive players for 2026. Freeman’s ability to connect with families and present a clear vision for the future has become one of Notre Dame’s biggest recruiting strengths.

Quinn’s transfer will also allow him to work more closely with trainers and coaches who specialize in preparing athletes for the next level. The increased access to elite resources—from film breakdown to individualized strength and conditioning—could elevate his game even further. That’s a scary thought for opposing defenses and a thrilling one for Notre Dame fans hoping to see him in blue and gold. As the recruiting calendar heats up this summer with camps, visits, and showcases, Quinn is expected to continue rising in national rankings. He’s already earned invitations to several premier events, including the Under Armour Future 50 and the Rivals Five-Star Challenge.

Notre Dame, for its part, is not standing still. The Irish are expected to host Quinn for another visit later this year, possibly for a major home game against a top-tier opponent. Those weekends are crucial in recruiting, offering prospects a glimpse into the energy, community, and gameday atmosphere of South Bend. The Irish are confident that when Quinn is on campus, they can make a lasting impression. The coaching staff is also likely to pair his visit with other priority targets, reinforcing the idea that Notre Dame is assembling a special group in 2026.

While Quinn’s transfer may seem like just a footnote in the larger recruiting picture, it’s emblematic of how seriously today’s top athletes approach their development. Every decision is part of a broader plan to prepare for college and, eventually, the NFL. Quinn is already thinking about scheme fit, quarterback chemistry, and opportunities to contribute early. Notre Dame’s evolving offensive identity under Marcus Freeman and the staff’s growing national reach make it a compelling destination for players like him.

The competition for Quinn’s signature will only intensify as the cycle progresses. Programs will make their pitch with flash and flair, offering NIL promises and glitzy facilities. But Notre Dame is betting on something more enduring: the power of relationships, the value of education, and the appeal of a program with both history and momentum. Whether or not Quinn ultimately chooses the Irish, the pursuit reflects the program’s ambition. Notre Dame is no longer content to sit on the sidelines when it comes to elite skill talent. They’re swinging for the fences—and with players like Dre Quinn, they might just connect.

As for Quinn, his next chapter is about more than football. The move to a new high school is a reset, a chance to grow as a leader, refine his craft, and sharpen his focus. Coaches at his new school have already praised his humility and team-first mindset. Despite the national attention, Quinn remains grounded, focused on the details that separate good from great. His work ethic, already legendary among peers, is expected to shine in a more structured and competitive environment.

In the coming months, as Quinn continues to dominate on the field and weigh his college options, all eyes will be on how his game evolves. Notre Dame’s staff will be among the most attentive, knowing that players like Dre Quinn don’t come along often. His recruitment is a marathon, not a sprint, but every touchpoint matters. And if South Bend remains near the top of his list, it will be because the Irish never stopped believing—not just in the athlete.