Notre Dame Football: Top Players Making the Biggest Offseason Gains Ahead of the 2025 Season
As the 2025 college football season approaches, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish have been hard at work refining their roster, with several players making significant strides during offseason workouts, spring practices, and summer training. These improvements could prove pivotal in shaping the team’s success this fall. Here’s a look at the Notre Dame players who have made the biggest gains so far this offseason.
One of the most notable developments this offseason has been the progression of sophomore quarterback Kenny Minchey. After showing flashes of potential in limited action last season, Minchey has taken major steps forward in his command of the offense, arm strength, and decision-making. Coaches have praised his improved footwork and ability to read defenses, which has translated into more consistent accuracy during spring scrimmages. With incumbent starter Riley Leonard graduating, Minchey’s development could position him as a key contender for the starting job or a reliable backup option.
Jordan Faison, who initially joined Notre Dame as a lacrosse player before transitioning to football, has continued to impress with his athleticism and route-running. This offseason, he has added noticeable muscle to his frame while maintaining his elite speed and agility. Faison’s improved strength has made him more physical against press coverage, and his chemistry with Notre Dame’s quarterbacks has grown significantly. Expect him to be a major weapon in the Irish passing game, potentially emerging as one of the team’s top receivers.
Jeremiyah Love has always possessed explosive speed, but this offseason, he has worked diligently on becoming a more complete back. His pass protection has improved, and he has shown greater patience in allowing blocks to develop before hitting the hole. Additionally, Love has added about 10 pounds of muscle without losing his breakaway speed, making him a more durable and versatile weapon in Notre Dame’s backfield. With Audric Estimé now in the NFL, Love is poised for a breakout season as the lead back.
Protecting the quarterback will be crucial for Notre Dame in 2025, and Charles Jagusah has made significant strides in solidifying his role at left tackle. After earning valuable experience as a freshman, Jagusah has refined his technique, particularly in pass protection, where his footwork and hand placement have become more consistent. His added strength has also improved his ability to drive defenders in the run game. If he continues this trajectory, he could develop into one of the nation’s premier offensive linemen.
Jason Onye has been one of the most talked-about players in Notre Dame’s offseason workouts. The Rhode Island native has transformed his body, adding significant muscle while improving his explosiveness off the snap. Defensive line coach Al Washington has praised Onye’s ability to disrupt plays in the backfield, and his improved conditioning has allowed him to stay fresh in extended reps. With the departure of Howard Cross III to the NFL, Onye’s emergence could be critical in maintaining the Irish’s stout run defense.
Jaiden Ausberry has taken full advantage of increased reps this offseason, showcasing his sideline-to-sideline speed and improved instincts in coverage. After playing sparingly as a freshman, Ausberry has bulked up while maintaining his elite athleticism, making him a strong candidate for a starting role at linebacker. His ability to diagnose plays quickly and deliver explosive tackles has stood out in scrimmages, and he could be a key piece in Notre Dame’s defensive resurgence.
Christian Gray entered Notre Dame as a highly touted recruit, and this offseason, he has taken his game to another level. His technique in man coverage has sharpened, and his ball skills have improved, leading to several interceptions in spring practices. Gray has also become more physical in press coverage, making him a more complete cornerback. With the Irish needing a lockdown presence in the secondary, Gray’s development could make him one of the ACC’s top defensive backs.Adon Shuler has been a standout in Notre Dame’s secondary this offseason, displaying improved range and play recognition. After missing time due to injury last season, Shuler has returned with a more polished understanding of defensive schemes, allowing him to play faster and more decisively. His tackling in open space has also improved, making him a reliable last line of defense. If he stays healthy, Shuler could be a major factor in limiting big plays for opposing offenses.
Eli Raridon has battled injuries throughout his Notre Dame career, but this offseason, he has finally been able to focus on refining his game. His route-running has become more precise, and his ability to create separation against linebackers has improved. Additionally, Raridon has developed into a more effective blocker, which could earn him more snaps in critical situations. With Mitchell Evans moving on to the NFL, Raridon has a prime opportunity to step into a featured role in the Irish offense.Boubacar Traore, a former four-star recruit, has made significant strides as a pass rusher this offseason. His explosiveness off the edge has improved, and he has developed a more diverse set of moves to counter offensive tackles. Traore’s increased strength has also made him a more effective run defender, setting the edge with greater consistency. If he continues to progress, he could be a major disruptor in Notre Dame’s defensive front.
Notre Dame’s 2025 season will hinge on player development, and the strides made by these individuals could determine whether the Fighting Irish contend for a College Football Playoff spot. From Kenny Minchey’s growth at quarterback to Jason Onye’s dominance in the trenches, these players have put in the work to elevate their games. As fall camp approaches, their continued development will be crucial in shaping Notre Dame’s championship aspirations. Irish fans have plenty of reasons for optimism as these rising stars prepare to make an impact on the field.
