Tracking Every Notre Dame Football Jersey Change, Freshman Assignment, and Summer Enrollee Ahead of the 2025 Season Opener
As the 2025 college football season inches closer, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish continue to make headlines—not just through recruiting or coaching moves, but through something more symbolic: jersey numbers. These digits carry legacy, expectations, and identity for the student-athletes who wear them. From returning veterans switching numbers to early enrollees and summer freshmen receiving their first assignments, the roster is taking shape in ways that fans and insiders alike watch closely.
Jersey numbers are more than just a piece of a uniform at Notre Dame. They’re a tradition, passed down from era to era. The number 3 recalls the electrifying runs of Rick Mirer and the unforgettable plays of Ron Powlus. The number 9 may bring back memories of Jaylon Smith or Louis Nix. Each number worn is a chapter in Notre Dame’s rich football history.
This offseason, a flurry of updates surrounding jersey assignments has stirred curiosity. With a loaded incoming class and the return of a handful of seasoned players, changes have naturally occurred. Let’s take a deep dive into what’s changed, who’s wearing what, and the stories that are beginning to unfold through these new numbers.
A few upperclassmen have elected to swap numbers, a decision that often reflects a deeper meaning—whether it’s to embrace a leadership role, reconnect with a high school identity, or signify a personal restart.
Junior defensive back Jaden Mickey is switching from No. 21 to No. 7, a number traditionally worn by key defensive backs in the Irish program. The move might symbolize his growing maturity and confidence as he competes for a starting cornerback job in Al Golden’s defense.
Wide receiver Jayden Thomas, who wore No. 83 last season, has made the switch to No. 5—an iconic number that saw recent Notre Dame legends like Manti Te’o and Cam McDaniel take the field. It’s a lower number that typically signifies prominence in the offense, possibly signaling a larger role for Thomas as a senior.
On the offensive line, Rocco Spindler, who previously wore No. 50, has now taken up No. 75—a more traditional lineman’s number and perhaps a nod to past dominant Irish guards. This kind of change, while subtle, often comes with a message: the player is ready to leave a lasting impression.
Notre Dame’s early enrollees—players who graduated high school early to participate in spring practices—have already had time to acclimate to the program. These players were the first from the 2025 recruiting class to receive jersey numbers and begin building their Notre Dame legacy.
Quarterback Deuce Knight, the centerpiece of this recruiting class, will wear No. 10. A dual-threat talent with explosive playmaking ability, Knight wearing No. 10 recalls the days of Brady Quinn and Malik Zaire. The choice suggests high confidence and a flair for leadership early on.
Running back Justin Thurman, a speedster from Tampa, has been assigned No. 22. It’s a fitting number for a back known for quick cuts and agility. With established backs ahead of him, Thurman may not see significant action right away, but this number reflects a readiness to contribute if called upon.
Tight end Nate Roberts will don No. 87, a number reminiscent of Notre Dame’s rich tight end tradition. From Kyle Rudolph to Tyler Eifert, the tight end position has long been a strength for the Irish. Roberts has the size and skillset to one day join that elite lineage, and his number sets the stage for that potential.
Defensive lineman Davion Dixon has been given No. 98, a classic number for a powerful presence up front. Dixon’s massive frame and quick first step could make him a rotational contributor early, especially with depth concerns on the defensive line.
Linebacker Bodie Kahoun takes No. 42, evoking the grit and grind of former Irish linebackers. He’s known for his tackling instincts and sideline-to-sideline pursuit, making 42 a suitable match for his skillset.
Cornerback Karson Hobbs has received No. 6, a bold and confident number for a freshman defensive back. It’s a number that suggests he’s not coming to sit quietly—he’s here to compete.
Now that summer workouts are underway, the remaining members of the 2025 recruiting class have arrived on campus, and with them, a fresh wave of jersey numbers has been handed out. While these players missed spring ball, their presence this summer marks the beginning of their Notre Dame journey.
Wide receiver Micah Gilbert, a 6-foot-3 target out of North Carolina, will wear No. 13. It’s an uncommon number for receivers but one that could stand out, especially for a player with red-zone capabilities. Gilbert has the build to be a mismatch and could find his way into the rotation quickly.
Offensive tackle Styles Prescod, a mountain of a man from Indiana, has claimed No. 77. That number often goes to cornerstone offensive linemen, signaling that the staff views Prescod as a long-term investment with starter potential.
Defensive back Leonard Moore steps into No. 14, which in recent years has been worn by hybrid players on both sides of the ball. Moore, known for his ball-hawking skills, might become a critical piece of the secondary sooner than later.
Safety Ivan Taylor, son of former NFL cornerback Ike Taylor, will wear No. 27. He brings a high football IQ and strong bloodlines, and the number suggests special teams duties await, with the possibility of growing into a defensive role.
Linebacker Cole Mullins takes on No. 45, a number that screams toughness and tradition. Mullins is a high-motor player who fits the mold of past Notre Dame linebackers who were heart-and-soul types of defenders.
Edge rusher Bryce Young—no relation to the Heisman-winning quarterback—has been given No. 56. He’s a raw but explosive athlete who may be redshirted early but brings sky-high upside as a pass-rusher.
Cornerback Brauntae Johnson gets No. 24, a sleek number for a speedy defender. He could carve out a role on special teams as he adjusts to the college game.
While scholarship players often get the spotlight, walk-ons are crucial to Notre Dame’s culture. Some new walk-ons received numbers this summer as well, filling out depth in practice and offering key support roles. These players may not start on Saturdays in the fall, but their presence is vital in making the team better during the week.
Each of them will hope to emulate past walk-on success stories, perhaps earning scholarship recognition in the future. Their number assignments, often higher or less flashy, still matter—they’re the start of something meaningful.
As the Notre Dame Fighting Irish prepare for the 2025 season, jersey numbers become a preview of stories yet to unfold. A quarterback taking No. 10. A defensive back wearing No. 6. A veteran trading in his old identity for a more iconic digit. It all speaks to the constant evolution of the program.
Fans will soon associate these numbers with highlight plays, key tackles, breakout performances, and future legacies. For now, though, they are blank slates—loaded with potential and ready to be written into Notre Dame football lore.
As the team takes shape through the heat of summer and into fall camp, these numbers will become familiar. Some will rise into prominence, others may shift again in future seasons. But as of this moment, they mark the start of another chapter in the never-ending story of Notre Dame football.
