In-state 2019 LB William Chapman Recaps Irish Invasion Experience
Notre Dame has attempted to take advantage of the talent flowing from Indianapolis Cathedral in recent years and currently holds a commitment from 2018 running back Markese Stepp.
In 2017, the Irish held a long-time pledge from linebacker Pete Werner before the four-star flipped to Ohio State.
A potential name to keep an eye on in the 2019 class from the Cathedral program is linebacker William Chapman, who participated at Irish Invasion this past weekend.
“I think I did pretty well,” Chapman told Blue & Gold. “I think working wise I liked it a lot and had to keep my hips open. It was good coverage work….“I showed them I have pretty good speed and I close distance pretty well. We did the cat and mouse drill and I close those distances pretty quickly.”
The 6-foot, 200-pounder eventually received some coaching for the rover position in Mike Elko’s defense.
“They moved me and Shayne to work rover and it was kind of cool to learn that technique,” Chapman said. “They said they are going to potentially start looking at me for rover. It was really cool to see that. I loved it.”
After being at Notre Dame for the first time, Chapman Is hoping to continue building his relationship with the Irish staff.
“I think it’s a great place,” Chapman said. “This was my very first time being here. The campus is beautiful. Notre Dame is the real deal. I get a great vibe about and I love it.
“Top-notch program. One of the best in the country and always has been. Best coaches and best players all the way around.”
Chapman has also head a lot about the Irish from Stepp.
“You know him, he’s a recruiter,” Chapman said with laughter. “The biggest thing I’ve heard from him is the four for 40. You do your four years and you can get a lifetime out of it and it’s more than just football. You play ball at the highest level and you get to have an experience academically that can take you anywhere you want to go.”
Recruiting is still in the very early stages for Chapman, who started four games as a sophomore, as he is still waiting for his first offer. He’s hoping to take advantage of the opportunity in front of him with his playing time set to increase.
“I think I started four games this past season. I had to really work hard for my minutes playing behind Pete Werner. I got good quality reps and adjusted to the speed and made some plays. I had a decent sophomore season.”
Chapman will participate in a camp at Ohio State and is planning to make it to Michigan, Penn State, USC, UCLA and Florida this summer.
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