Tyler Buchner’s collegiate athletic journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of passion. Beginning his college career as a quarterback at Notre Dame, Buchner’s path took him to Alabama before he returned to Notre Dame, not as a football player, but as a lacrosse player. His story is one of reinvention, determination, and the courage to follow one’s true calling.
Tyler Buchner hails from La Jolla, California, and was a standout athlete in multiple sports during his high school years. He was particularly renowned for his prowess in lacrosse, earning recognition as one of the nation’s top prep lacrosse players. Initially, he had committed to play lacrosse at the University of Michigan in eighth grade. However, as his football career gained momentum, he chose to focus on the gridiron.
Buchner joined the University of Notre Dame as a highly regarded quarterback prospect. In his freshman year (2021), he appeared in 10 games, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities by passing for 298 yards and rushing for 336 yards, totaling six touchdowns. His performance indicated a promising future as a starting quarterback
The 2022 season began with high expectations for Buchner, but it was marred by a shoulder injury during the second game against Marshall. The injury sidelined him for the remainder of the regular season, although he made a return in the Gator Bowl, leading Notre Dame to victory over South Carolina.
Seeking a fresh start and reuniting with former offensive coordinator Tommy Rees, Buchner transferred to the University of Alabama in 2023. He appeared in two games for the Crimson Tide, including a start against South Florida. Despite the opportunity, he found himself behind Jalen Milroe and Ty Simpson in the quarterback depth chart. After the season, Buchner entered the transfer portal, contemplating his next move.
In December 2023, Buchner made a pivotal decision to return to Notre Dame, not as a quarterback, but as a lacrosse player. He joined the Fighting Irish men’s lacrosse team, a program with a rich history and recent success. In his first season with the team, he played in 11 games and contributed to their national championship victory over Maryland in May 2024. Buchner’s return to lacrosse was not just a return to a sport he loved but also a journey of personal rediscovery.
Buoyed by the success and fulfillment he found in lacrosse, Buchner decided to rejoin the Notre Dame football team in May 2024, but this time in a different role. He walked on as a wide receiver, embracing a new challenge and contributing to the team in a capacity that leveraged his athleticism and football IQ. In his first season back, he appeared in two games, including a notable play against USC where he completed a 23-yard pass on a fake punt attempt.
Tyler Buchner’s journey through college athletics exemplifies the importance of adaptability and the pursuit of one’s true passions. His ability to transition from quarterback to lacrosse player, and then to wide receiver, highlights his versatility and commitment to personal growth. As he continues his education at Notre Dame, pursuing a master’s degree in business, Buchner’s story serves as an inspiration to athletes and individuals alike, demonstrating that success is not solely defined by one’s initial path but by the courage to forge new ones.
Through his experiences, Buchner has shown that the essence of sports lies not just in competition but in the lessons learned, the relationships built, and the personal development achieved. His multifaceted collegiate career will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the Notre Dame community and beyond.
