As Notre Dame gears up for another pivotal offseason, the transfer portal looms large-but not in the way it has in years past. With the portal officially opening in just a couple of weeks, the Irish coaching staff is already deep into the process of evaluating roster needs and potential fits.
But this year, it’s not just about plugging holes. Thanks to new revenue-sharing rules and a roster that’s already brimming with talent, the focus may shift from acquisition to retention and development.
Let’s break down Notre Dame’s offensive needs heading into the portal season-and what that might mean for the Irish in 2026.
1. Wide Receiver
Need: Medium to High
This is the most obvious area where Notre Dame could look to make a move. The Irish have leaned on the portal for receivers in recent cycles, and depending on who stays or goes, they may do it again.
If Jaden Greathouse returns, the need drops significantly-perhaps just one addition. But even with a solid core of young talent, Notre Dame could use a proven playmaker to elevate the passing game.
The staff has a tough but important decision to make: lean into the development of young, high-upside players like Cam Williams, Micah Gilbert, Kaydon Finley, and Elijah Burress, or take the shortcut and bring in a more polished target. Ideally, it’s a balance. You want to give the kids room to grow, but if a player like Malachi Fields-or someone in that mold-becomes available, he could be a difference-maker right away.
Keep an eye on names like Nick Marsh from Michigan State and others who may enter the portal in the coming weeks. The market is still evolving.
2. Tight End
Need: Medium to Low
Tight end is a bit of a question mark heading into 2026. Eli Raridon’s departure leaves a void, and Cooper Flanagan is still working his way back from injury. When healthy, Flanagan brings value as a blocker, but missing almost the entire 2025 season casts some doubt on his ability to step up as TE1 next year.
Ty Washington played a key rotational role this season, but he’s likely best suited as a complementary piece. Jack Larsen, a redshirt sophomore, has shown reliable hands and could contribute more if he improves as a blocker.
The real intrigue lies in the younger group. Redshirt freshman James Flanigan and incoming freshmen Ian Premer and Preston Fryzel bring loads of upside.
The question is whether the staff trusts that group to develop quickly, or if they feel the need to bring in a more seasoned tight end from the portal. If a high-impact player is available, it’s worth exploring.
Otherwise, this is a spot where internal growth could pay off big.
3. Quarterback
Need: Medium to Low
CJ Carr is the guy. That much is clear.
The rising sophomore has star written all over him, and the program is building around him. But with Kenny Minchey and Anthony Rezac entering the portal, depth behind Carr is razor-thin.
Blake Hebert and incoming freshman Noah Grubbs are talented, but inexperienced. Notre Dame is also working to get 2027 commit Teddy Jarrard to reclassify and join the program early, which would help-but even then, the quarterback room would be extremely young.
This is where a veteran portal addition could make a lot of sense. Not someone to compete with Carr, but a mature, experienced backup who can provide mentorship, steady the room, and be ready in case of emergency. Think of it as an insurance policy-one that could be invaluable if Carr misses any time.
4. Running Back
Need: Low
This is one of the more intriguing position groups. Losing Jeremiyah Love and potentially Jadarian Price would sting, no doubt. But the Irish backfield is still in good shape, thanks to a strong returning core and some impressive freshmen on the way.
Aneyas Williams quietly had a breakout season, averaging 9.3 yards per carry and making big plays when it mattered. He’s got the tools to be the feature back if he stays.
Kedren Young was in line for a bigger role before a knee injury sidelined him, but he’s expected to be ready for 2026. Nolan James Jr. is another name to watch-he’s a dual-threat back who could make noise this spring.
Add in incoming freshmen Javian Osborne and Jonaz Walton, and you’ve got a deep, talented room. Sure, there’s not a ton of proven production outside of Williams, but the potential is there in spades. Unless there’s an unexpected departure or injury setback, Notre Dame is unlikely to dip into the portal here.
5. Offensive Line
Need: Low
Here’s the deal: Notre Dame has 22 scholarship offensive linemen projected to be on the 2026 roster. That’s a loaded room, and barring a wave of unexpected exits, there’s simply no need to add from the portal.
Even if a starter or two moves on, the cost of bringing in a top-tier lineman from the portal-especially with the current asking prices-makes it a tough sell. The Irish have invested heavily in this position group through recruiting, and now it’s time to let that depth develop.
The Bottom Line
Notre Dame’s approach to the portal this offseason is going to be different-and that’s a good thing. This isn’t a team scrambling to fill gaps.
It’s a roster with talent, depth, and a clear identity. The focus will be on keeping key players in the fold, developing the next wave of stars, and only making portal moves where there’s a clear, strategic benefit.
Wide receiver is the one spot where a portal addition could have a real impact. Quarterback and tight end are more about depth and insurance.
Running back and offensive line? Barring surprises, the Irish are in a strong position.
This portal cycle isn’t about rebuilding-it’s about refining. And if Notre Dame gets it right, 2026 could be a big year in South Bend.