Coming out of spring camp, Notre Dame football has its sights set firmly on 2025 with a renewed sense of optimism—and a healthy dose of uncertainty—at two key position groups: tight end and the secondary. With the departure of several veteran contributors, head coach Marcus Freeman and his staff are looking to rising talent to fill critical roles as the Fighting Irish push for playoff contention.
At tight end, the legacy of elite playmakers like Michael Mayer still looms large. Last season, Notre Dame leaned on the steady presence of Mitchell Evans before his season-ending ACL injury. While Evans is expected back in the fall, the spring gave younger prospects a chance to showcase their skills—and a few took full advantage.
Holden Staes, now in his third year, turned heads with his improved blocking and consistent hands. A former blue-chip recruit, Staes has gradually grown into his frame and seems poised for a breakout year. Behind him, sophomore Eli Raridon showed flashes of his athleticism and route-running ability, suggesting Notre Dame may once again feature a dynamic duo at the position. True freshman Jack Larsen also impressed coaches with his football IQ and polished technique, indicating he could earn snaps early if needed.
Freeman emphasized versatility in the tight end room, noting, “We’ve got guys who can stretch the field, block in-line, and move around the formation. It’s about putting them in the best position to succeed.” Offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock, returning to South Bend, plans to lean into two-tight end sets to maximize mismatches.
On the defensive side, the secondary faces a bigger rebuilding task. The Irish lost All-American corner Cam Hart and veteran safety DJ Brown to graduation, leaving a void in experience and leadership. But if the spring was any indication, there’s promising depth ready to step up.
Benjamin Morrison returns as the unquestioned leader of the secondary. The All-American junior continues to lock down one side of the field, and his presence will help ease the transition for new starters. On the opposite corner, Jaden Mickey had a strong spring, showing improved technique and physicality. Freshman Leonard Moore made waves early, earning praise for his instincts and competitive edge.
At safety, transfer Xavier Watts brings star power and stability. The 2023 Nagurski Award winner returns after a breakout season, and his presence as a playmaker and communicator is invaluable. The battle for the spot opposite him remains open, with rising sophomore Adon Shuler and early enrollee Kingston Lopa both seeing significant reps this spring. Shuler in particular emerged as a strong candidate, drawing praise for his range and toughness.
Special teams coordinator Marty Biagi also noted several defensive backs contributing in the return game, a nod to their athleticism and versatility.
While experience is limited, the overall athleticism and talent in both the tight end room and the secondary have the Notre Dame staff feeling cautiously optimistic. With a top-10 recruiting class on campus and a manageable early-season schedule, the Irish have time to develop their emerging stars. If the spring is any indication, Notre Dame could once again reload rather than rebuild in its quest for a national title.