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Receiver Target TJ Sheffield A 'Perfect Fit' For Notre Dame

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The coach of three-star WR Tj Sheffield said Sheffield and Notre Dame are a perfect match
The coach of three-star WR Tj Sheffield said Sheffield and Notre Dame are a perfect match (Nick Lucero/Rivals.com)
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Thompsons Station (Tenn.) Independence head coach Scott Blade knows plenty about the type of student athlete Notre Dame recruits.

Blade said he grew up watching Notre Dame, and added that three-star wide receiver TJ Sheffield, who visited for Junior Day on Jan. 27, would fit in perfectly in South Bend.

“I think he fits in really well with the whole character combined with athleticism, Blade explained. “That’s what I grew up knowing Notre Dame to be, that’s’ what I still understand Notre Dame to be and he’s a perfect fit for that mentality and that culture.”

So, what would Notre Dame be getting if they did eventually land Sheffield?

Blade said the Tennessee talent is the kind of player you have to be aware of at all times.

“You better know where he lines up,” Blade said. “If he’s outside you cover him one way, but if he’s inside or in the backfield, there’s different things you better be aware of. At the high school level and the schedule we play, he’s got an advantage athletically.”

During games in 2017, Sheffield lined up at outside and slot receiver, as well as running back and defensive back.

Blade said Sheffield’s physical advantages combined with his mental dedication to the game make him one of the more versatile players in the class.

“He’s a terrific player,’ Blade said. “He’s very dynamic and can play a lot of different positions for us. His athleticism and his knack for understanding football is what makes him great.”

When it comes down to it though, Blade said, the biggest reason for Sheffield’s success on the field is his work ethic off of it.

“He’s a tireless worker and one of those kids that’s a weight room warrior,” Blade said. “That’s sometimes an overused term, but he doesn’t miss. He leads his workout group and he leads on the field in his position group.”

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