Howard Cross III will be back at Notre Dame in 2024.

Cross, one of Notre Dame’s top defensive linemen, announced that decision on Sunday afternoon. He will be back in South Bend for another season instead of beginning his pro career.

Here’s his announcement:

The 2024 season will be Cross’ 6th in college football. He played in only 3 games in 2019 while maintaining a redshirt year. Cross also received a waiver in 2020 due to the pandemic. He has been a key contributor on Notre Dame’s D-Line over the past 3 seasons.

In 2023, Cross recorded career-highs in tackles (64) and tackles for loss (6). He also collected 1 sack, 2 pass deflections and 2 forced fumbles. He was a semifinalist for the Chuck Bednarik Award this season.

Notre Dame will be tasked with replacing several key players on both sides of the ball next season, so Cross’ return means he will bring some continuity to the Fighting Irish for next season.

Notre Dame will face Oregon State in the Sun Bowl to close out the 2023 season.