As the college football calendar inches closer to the official opening of the transfer portal, programs across the country are bracing for roster shakeups-and Notre Dame is no exception. While the Irish have avoided a mass exodus of marquee names to the portal, the bigger story in South Bend is the early departures to the NFL.
Two of the most impactful losses? Running backs Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price, both choosing to forgo their remaining eligibility and chase pro dreams.
That leaves head coach Marcus Freeman with some gaps to fill, particularly in a few key position groups. As the dust settles from both portal announcements and draft declarations, here’s a closer look at three areas that will need immediate attention heading into 2026.
Running Back: A Duo No More
Notre Dame has long thrived on a one-two punch in the backfield. Whether it was Kyren Williams and Chris Tyree or Audric Estimé and Logan Diggs, the Irish have built their ground game on balance and depth. With both Love and Price off to the NFL, that formula takes a serious hit.
Fortunately, Aneyas Williams is still in the mix-and he’s got the tools to be a feature back. He’s explosive, patient, and already has the trust of the coaching staff.
But in today’s college football landscape, one reliable back isn’t enough. Injuries, matchups, and tempo all demand depth, and that’s where the transfer portal comes into play.
There’s no shortage of intriguing names expected to be available, including some high-profile runners like Cam Cook and Hollywood Smothers. But Notre Dame doesn’t necessarily need a headline-grabber-they need a fit.
One name that makes a lot of sense? Dylan Edwards.
After transferring from Colorado to Kansas State, Edwards found his rhythm and showcased the kind of vision and burst that would mesh well in Notre Dame’s offense. He’s a patient runner who knows how to set up blocks and hit the hole with purpose. That kind of skillset, paired with Williams, could quickly re-establish the Irish’s ground game as one of the most balanced in the nation.
Wide Receiver: Reinforcements Needed
The Irish will still have Jordan Faison, and that’s a big deal. He emerged as the team’s leading receiver and gives the offense a reliable target with big-play potential. But with Malachi Field likely heading to the NFL, and the backfield’s receiving threat taking a hit with Love and Price gone, Notre Dame needs to reload at wideout.
The good news? Incoming quarterback CJ Carr is poised for a breakout year.
He’s got the arm talent, poise, and leadership to take the next step. What he needs now is a deeper, more dynamic receiver room to grow with.
Notre Dame is already in the mix for former Michigan State wideout Nick Marsh, a physical receiver with the kind of upside that could thrive in Marcus Freeman’s system. But even beyond Marsh, there’s a group of portal receivers who could come in and contribute immediately. Whether it's a vertical threat to stretch the field or a possession guy who can move the chains, adding one or two proven playmakers could elevate the entire offense.
Defensive Line: Time to Turn Potential into Production
This might be the biggest area of concern heading into next season. While the Irish defense improved as the year went on, the defensive line didn’t consistently generate the kind of pressure needed to dominate games. And in today’s game, where disrupting the quarterback is paramount, that’s a problem Freeman and defensive coordinator Chris Ash need to solve-fast.
The portal offers a chance to bring in ready-made talent, and there are several Group of Five standouts who could make the leap. One name that jumps off the list is Santana Hopper.
Despite being undersized for a defensive lineman, he racked up 4.5 sacks and 10.5 tackles for loss this past season. He’s got a quick first step, a relentless motor, and a knack for finding his way into the backfield.
For a coach like Freeman-who’s built a reputation for developing talent-Hopper could be a perfect project. Plugging him into Ash’s scheme and surrounding him with Power Five-level support could unlock another level in his game. And more importantly, it would give Notre Dame the kind of disruptive presence they’ve been missing up front.
The Bottom Line
Notre Dame isn’t in rebuild mode-but they are in reload mode. Losing Love and Price to the NFL stings, and the portal will inevitably bring more change.
But Freeman has a clear blueprint, and the tools to work with. Whether it’s adding a complementary back, a go-to receiver, or a disruptive force on the defensive line, the Irish have a chance to not just patch holes-but upgrade.
The next few weeks will be telling. The portal opens the door to new talent, but it’s up to Freeman and his staff to make the right calls. If they do, Notre Dame could come out of this offseason stronger, deeper, and better positioned to make a serious run in 2026.