Fort Wayne (Ind.) Bishop Dwenger class of 2020 wide receiver Griffin Eifert has accepted a preferred walk-on opportunity to play for the University of Notre Dame and informed Irish Illustrated of his decision on Monday. The 6-1, 195-pounder couldn’t be more excited to know that he’ll suit up for the Fighting Irish for the next few years.

“It’s very exciting to be able to stay close to home and see family and be able to create my own legacy,” said Eifert to Irish Illustrated and 247Sports. “I know I’m going to have to work hard and there are going to be challenges, but I’m excited and looking forward to it.”

Notre Dame had been keeping a close eye on Eifert for a couple of years. Ahead of his junior year, the in-state talent camped in South Bend and made the 247Sports Top Performers list following a strong workout. As the interest continued to grow, Eifert finally received the good news from Notre Dame that he had hoped for.

“It all fell into place, but it started out with conversations with Dave Peloquin,” said Eifert, as he referenced Notre Dame’s Director of Player Personnel. “They invited me up for their first spring practice, I talked with head coach Brian Kelly, they took me around campus, and gave me the opportunity to play football as a preferred walk on.

“Mostly what made me make my decision was just growing up watching my older brother play there,” continued Eifert of his decision. “Going to games and their education — I can’t wait to get up there and see what the future holds.”

Speaking of his brother, Eifert is the younger brother of former All-American, 2012 Mackey Award winner, former first round draft pick, and current NFL tight end Tyler Eifert. The two recently spoke about this decision and it’s clear “big bro” couldn’t be happier for his younger sibling.

“We had talked a lot about it during the recruiting process,” said Eifert. “When the opportunity came, he was really excited that everything fell into place.”

As a senior, Eifert had 30 catches for 478 yards and seven touchdown receptions. He also racked up 42 tackles and five interceptions on defense. He helped lead Bishop Dwenger to an 11-2 recorded a trip to the 5A semi-state game.

As of today, the plan is for Eifert to contribute at wide receiver for the Fighting Irish under receivers coach DelVaughn Alexander and offensive coordinator Tommy Rees. However, after watching his tape, seeing how productive he has been in the secondary during his time at Bishop Dwenger, and seeing him in action at safety, don't rule out him competing for potential playing time down the road under safeties coach Terry Joseph and defensive coordinator Clark Lea.