Lovejoy (Texas) linebacker Payton Pierce has been on the radar since middle school, where he picked up an offer from Missouri as an 8th grader. Ever since then, he’s been one of the best playmakers on the defensive side of the ball in the state of Texas. Due to his play, he has piqued the interest of several college programs, some of which are starting to separate themselves from the pack.
Following his visit to Notre Dame’s junior day, the Irish are in a good spot with the four-star linebacker. “The visit was awesome! I left feeling like it was one of my top schools. There were so many things to like, but the one thing that really sticks out to me about that place is the people. The coaches, recruiters, and academic supervisors really seem like great men of character, and they all love Notre Dame,” said Pierce.
Notre Dame is standing out to Pierce on and off the field. For his skillset on the field, he feels like a priority target. “They made it a point to let me know that I fit well with them and think I can come in and compete right away.” Off the field, the academics stand out. “The academics and the opportunities that you get from a degree at Notre Dame is obviously a big deal.“
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He followed the Notre Dame visit up with visits to Texas and Texas A&M. Both schools are inside his home state and have left an impression.
Texas’ inside linebackers coach and co-defensive coordinator Jeff Choate and his push is the thing standing out about the Longhorns to Pierce. “Coach Choate is by far the big thing for me at Texas. Coach Sark and the whole staff are great, but Coach Choate is by far the big draw for me at Texas.“
Texas A&M has made Pierce a priority and the linebacker believes the Aggies could be a good fit. “I feel like I fit in there with academics, social life, and the Aggies’ culture. I also really liked the linebackers that they already have on the team plus the guys they are recruiting with me.” Another thing standing out about Texas A&M is the coaching staff. “Coach Jimbo Fisher is awesome and I love talking with him. Coach [DJ] Durkin and Coach [Alex] Garwig came and watched me wrestle last week, and I really like them as well.“
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While the two Texas schools have a location in their favor, Pierce says that won’t be a factor in his decision. “I think above all else what I am looking for regardless of whether it’s right down the road or halfway across the country is like-minded guys, great academics, and stability. I think location is a little overrated. It’s who you’re with and how you can grow and develop as a man and player. That’s what matters most to me.“
Looking forward to the spring, Pierce has a couple of visits planned. Notre Dame has stood out, and Pierce wants to make it back. “I plan on heading back to a spring practice, and it’s definitely one of my main schools under consideration, especially after the trip [for the Junior Day].“
A new school to the mix is Ohio State. The Buckeyes were not included in his top 10 post, but. a recent offer has inserted them into his recruitment. “Yes, absolutely Ohio State will be a factor. I’ll head up there to watch a practice this spring,” said Pierce.
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