Top Fighting Irish players for the 2025 college football season are CJ Carr and a few Notre Dame predicted breakouts.

As the Notre Dame Fighting Irish gear up for the 2025 college football season, anticipation surrounds a roster brimming with talent and potential. Leading the charge is freshman quarterback CJ Carr, whose decision to join Notre Dame over his family’s alma mater, Michigan, underscores his commitment to forging his own path . Carr’s maturity and skill set have already made a strong impression during spring practices, positioning him as a key figure in the team’s offensive strategy.(onefootdown.com)

Beyond Carr, several players are poised for breakout seasons, ready to make significant contributions on both sides of the ball.

CJ Carr, a consensus four-star recruit from Saline, Michigan, enters his freshman year with high expectations. Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 210 pounds, Carr’s impressive high school career included over 2,700 passing yards and 24 touchdowns in his senior season . His performance in Notre Dame’s Blue-Gold spring game, where he completed 14 of 19 passes for 170 yards and two touchdowns, showcased his readiness to compete at the collegiate level .(Fighting Irish Athletics, onefootdown.com)

Carr’s decision to join Notre Dame, despite his family’s strong ties to Michigan, highlights his desire to establish his own legacy . His professionalism and resilience, especially after returning from a freshman-year injury, have earned him respect within the program. As the quarterback competition unfolds, Carr’s blend of talent and determination positions him as a potential leader for the Fighting Irish.(onefootdown.com)

Sophomore Jaden Greathouse emerged as a reliable target during the 2024 season, culminating in standout performances in the Orange Bowl and the National Championship. His ability to make critical plays in high-pressure situations suggests he could become the go-to receiver in 2025 .(Wikipedia, The Irish Tribune)

With the departure of several veteran receivers, sophomore Micah Gilbert has an opportunity to step into a more prominent role. His impressive showing in the 2024 Blue-Gold game, where he recorded five catches for 79 yards and two touchdowns, indicates his potential to be a key contributor in the passing game .(The Irish Tribune)

Transfer Malachi Fields brings size and physicality to the receiving corps. Despite not participating in spring practices, his experience and skill set make him a valuable addition to the offense .(Fighting Irish Wire)

A multi-sport athlete, sophomore Jordan Faison has demonstrated versatility and playmaking ability. His performance in the 2023 Sun Bowl, where he earned MVP honors, and his contributions in lacrosse showcase his athleticism and potential impact on the football field .(Wikipedia)

Junior running back Jeremiyah Love enters the season as one of the nation’s top returning rushers. After amassing 1,125 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns in 2024, Love is expected to be a focal point of the Irish offense .(Wikipedia)

Complementing Love in the backfield is junior Jadarian Price, who contributed 746 rushing yards and seven touchdowns last season. His explosive playmaking ability adds depth and versatility to the running game .(Wikipedia)

Redshirt sophomore Charles Jagusah is poised to make an impact on the offensive line. Recognized as a top offensive line prospect, his development will be crucial in providing protection for the quarterback and creating running lanes .(SI, Fighting Irish Wire)

After stepping into a starting role due to injury in 2024, sophomore Leonard Moore quickly established himself as a reliable presence in the secondary. His recognition as a Freshman All-American underscores his potential to anchor the defensive backfield .(Wikipedia)

Senior Jason Onye returns to the defensive line with renewed vigor. His quickness and energy during spring practices suggest he is ready to fill the void left by departing stars and become a disruptive force up front .(irishfootballrant.com)

Freshman linebacker Madden Faraimo has impressed coaches with his instincts and physicality. His early enrollment and strong performance in spring drills indicate he could contribute to the linebacker rotation sooner rather than later .(irishfootballrant.com)