Notre Dame Players Making the Most Noticeable Offseason Gains as the 2025 College Football Season Rapidly Approaches South Bend
The 2025 college football season is rapidly approaching, and for Notre Dame, expectations remain as high as ever. With head coach Marcus Freeman entering a critical campaign after consecutive strong recruiting classes and a foundation of experienced veterans, the Fighting Irish need individual development to match their lofty team ambitions. Fortunately for the faithful in South Bend, several key players have made noticeable gains throughout spring practices and summer workouts, emerging as potential difference-makers as Notre Dame chases a return to national prominence.
Player development often defines whether a good team becomes great, and few programs emphasize that more than Notre Dame. Known for producing disciplined, physically polished athletes, the Irish coaching staff has been quick to point out those who have maximized their offseason. Whether through noticeable physical transformations, enhanced leadership presence, or dramatic on-field improvement, certain players have elevated themselves heading toward fall camp. Let’s dive into the individuals generating the most offseason buzz inside the Notre Dame program.
One name consistently emerging from coaches, teammates, and media observers alike is junior wide receiver Jaden Greathouse. The Texas native showcased flashes of promise during his first two seasons but spent the offseason committed to refining his craft and reshaping his frame. Reports indicate Greathouse has dropped nearly ten pounds of bad weight while adding muscle, improving both his explosiveness off the line and stamina deep into routes. With Notre Dame in need of dynamic playmakers in the passing game following the departure of veterans like Chris Tyree and Jayden Thomas, Greathouse’s growth couldn’t have come at a better time.
What sets Greathouse apart this offseason isn’t just his improved physique, but his attention to detail as a route runner. Insiders note his footwork, timing, and ability to separate have taken significant steps forward, allowing him to win consistently against both man and zone coverage during spring practices. Quarterbacks rave about his reliability and catch radius, traits that will be critical as new signal-caller Riley Leonard looks to build chemistry with the receiving corps. If his trajectory continues, Greathouse is poised to become a go-to option and potentially one of the most productive wideouts in the Marcus Freeman era.
Staying on the offensive side of the ball, another standout in terms of offseason gains is sophomore offensive lineman Charles Jagusah. The towering lineman arrived in South Bend with high expectations as part of the heralded 2023 recruiting class but spent much of his freshman year adjusting to the speed and physicality of college football. Fast forward to this offseason, and Jagusah has undergone a remarkable transformation, both physically and technically.
At nearly 6-foot-7 and now tipping the scales at a leaner, more powerful 315 pounds, Jagusah has reshaped his body under the guidance of strength coach Matt Balis. Coaches have praised his improved flexibility, footwork, and understanding of blocking schemes, all of which were evident during spring ball. His development has allowed him to compete for a starting role along the offensive line, with sources suggesting he may lock down one of the tackle spots opposite veteran Joe Alt. Considering Notre Dame’s proud tradition of elite offensive line play, Jagusah’s emergence could help anchor what promises to be one of the most formidable units in the nation.
Defensively, the Irish have seen major gains from a player whose physical growth matches his expanding role — linebacker Drayk Bowen. A former top-100 recruit from Indiana, Bowen made his mark on special teams and situational defense last season but has returned this offseason noticeably stronger and more confident. Now listed at a chiseled 235 pounds, Bowen has reportedly improved his sideline-to-sideline speed and explosiveness, attributes that have him in the mix for a starting linebacker role.
Bowen’s growth isn’t just physical; coaches have lauded his mental development, leadership qualities, and increased comfort within Al Golden’s complex defensive scheme. With Notre Dame aiming to bolster its run defense and create more havoc plays, Bowen’s combination of instincts and athleticism could be a game-changer. Teammates consistently mention his vocal presence on the practice field, signaling a young player ready to assume a leadership mantle in 2025.
Another defensive player whose offseason gains have been impossible to overlook is sophomore cornerback Christian Gray. Tasked with stepping up following the departure of All-American Benjamin Morrison to the NFL, Gray has responded with one of the most impressive spring performances on the team. Listed at 6-foot and 190 pounds, Gray has packed on muscle without sacrificing the fluid athleticism that made him a coveted recruit.
Observers rave about his ball skills, improved press coverage ability, and overall maturity on the field. In one-on-one drills, Gray consistently blanketed opposing receivers, showcasing the type of physical, aggressive playstyle the Notre Dame secondary demands. His progress has coaches optimistic that the Irish won’t experience significant drop-off in the defensive backfield, even with the loss of elite talent. If Gray’s upward trajectory holds, he could be the next great corner in a long line of NFL-bound Irish defensive backs.
Perhaps the most surprising offseason development centers around tight end Eli Raridon. Once viewed as a project due to injuries and limited experience, Raridon has quietly transformed himself into a viable offensive weapon. Now fully healthy and operating at a more powerful 255 pounds, Raridon has emerged as a legitimate threat in both the passing game and run blocking.
Quarterbacks have praised his reliable hands and improved route running, while coaches note his toughness and consistency in the trenches. With Notre Dame historically reliant on tight end production and questions surrounding depth at the position, Raridon’s emergence could prove invaluable. His ability to contribute in multiple facets adds much-needed versatility to the offense.
It’s also impossible to discuss Notre Dame’s offseason without mentioning the gains made by quarterback Riley Leonard. The transfer from Duke arrived with proven credentials as a playmaker but faced immediate questions regarding his health after ankle surgery. Since stepping foot in South Bend, Leonard has attacked his rehab with determination and is now reportedly near full strength heading toward fall camp.
Observers highlight Leonard’s increased arm strength, footwork, and command of the offense — traits that have fueled optimism about his ability to elevate the Irish attack. Teammates consistently praise his leadership, work ethic, and competitive nature, all of which have quickly earned him respect inside the locker room. With the Irish offense needing steady quarterback play to reach its potential, Leonard’s progress could be one of the most critical developments of the offseason.
Beyond individual standouts, the broader theme emerging from Notre Dame’s offseason is one of collective hunger and accountability. Strength coach Matt Balis, renowned for producing physically dominant teams, has pushed this group to new heights. Insiders report that nearly every player has made measurable gains in strength, speed, or conditioning — essential improvements for competing against elite programs like Ohio State, USC, and Clemson this fall.
Additionally, the leadership council, composed of veteran players, has emphasized culture, work ethic, and unity. Coaches note that younger players have bought into the program’s standards, and competition at multiple positions has intensified as a result. The Irish have positioned themselves not just as a talented team, but as a physically and mentally prepared one.
With the 2025 season opener on the horizon, Notre Dame fans have reason to be optimistic. From emerging stars like Jaden Greathouse and Christian Gray to revitalized veterans like Riley Leonard and Eli Raridon, this roster has experienced one of its most productive offseasons in recent memory. While questions remain, the signs of growth, both physically and mentally, indicate the Irish are trending in the right direction.
In South Bend, expectations never waver — playoff aspirations, marquee matchups, and the pursuit of greatness define every season. Thanks to the standout offseason gains of these key players, Notre Dame is better positioned to meet those challenges head-on. If development continues into fall camp, the Irish could field a team capable of making serious noise in the College Football Playoff conversation come December.
