Legacy Recruits Xander Edwards and James Halter Set to Shine at Notre Dame’s Irish Invasion Camp
Notre Dame football’s tradition of excellence is not only carried on the field, but often passed down through generations. This week, two sons of former Fighting Irish standouts will take the field at Friday’s prestigious Irish Invasion prospect camp: Xander Edwards and James Halter, both high school underclassmen with storied family legacies in South Bend.
Xander Edwards, a 2028 running back from The Bolles School in Jacksonville, Florida, is the son of former Notre Dame captain and fullback Marc Edwards. A four-year player for the Irish from 1993 to 1996, Marc Edwards is a name etched into Notre Dame lore. He ranks eighth all-time in school history with 32 career rushing touchdowns and was selected 55th overall in the 1997 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers.
Edwards’ toughness and leadership made him a central figure in Notre Dame’s offense during the mid-1990s, and now, his son is following closely in his footsteps.
Joining him at the camp is James Halter, a 2027 offensive lineman from Pittsburgh Central Catholic. Like Edwards, Halter also has a strong family connection to Notre Dame.
His father, Jordan Halter, was an offensive lineman who suited up for the Irish from 1989 to 1993. Jordan Halter was a fifth-year senior during the memorable 1993 season, where he played alongside Marc Edwards.
That year, Notre Dame compiled an 11-1 record and defeated Texas A\&M 24-21 in the Cotton Bowl. Despite their success, the Irish finished No. 2 in the final AP Poll, narrowly missing out on a national title.
Both legacy recruits were in attendance for the Blue-Gold Game on April 12, getting a firsthand look at the program under head coach Marcus Freeman. The visit allowed them to soak in the atmosphere and history of Notre Dame Stadium — a tradition-rich experience their fathers once lived.
Friday’s Irish Invasion will serve as a prime opportunity for Edwards and Halter to showcase their talents in front of Notre Dame coaches and staff. The camp, one of the premier events on the Fighting Irish recruiting calendar, attracts top talent from across the country and often serves as a springboard for future offers and deeper engagement with the program.
Coach Marcus Freeman, entering his fourth season leading the Irish, continues to build strong relationships with recruits — particularly those with a deep-rooted connection to the school. Welcoming the next generation of Fighting Irish players, especially sons of former standouts, adds a layer of continuity and pride to the program’s identity.
As Edwards and Halter take the field Friday, they’ll not only be competing among the nation’s best but also carrying on a cherished legacy — one built on grit, tradition, and the golden dome.