At first, getting the official word from Ethan Johnson on whether he selected Notre Dame as his college choice was a little difficult. The 5-star defensive end from Portland, Oregon was on vacation with his family.

But now its official. Johnson is Notre Dame's 17th verbal commitment. The 6'5" 265 pounder recorded 80 tackles and 10 sacks in 2006. He selected ND over USC, Michigan, Oregon and Oregon State.

In the span of less than 24 hours, the Irish got a physical defensive back from Georgia in Jamoris Slaughter and a defensive lineman from Portland, Oregon, both of whom were coveted by the top programs in the nation.

Slaughter decided on the Irish over Clemson, Oklahoma, Michigan, Alabama and LSU. He's 6'1, 185 and is extremley physical in the secondary.

Slaughter and Johnson bring to 17 the number of verbal commitments for Weis and the Irish this season. The first day that recruits may sign is Feb. 8, 2008