It seems like Notre Dame football is at a major crossroads, with significant changes happening after an impressive 14-2 season. Despite the success, it's clear that the program's staff turnover is creating some big challenges for head coach Marcus Freeman. But it also looks like Freeman is working diligently to navigate these changes by bringing in some strong new hires.
Chris Ash replaces Al Golden
The decision to replace Al Golden with Chris Ash seems strategic, especially considering Ash's background with defensive backs and his leadership beside Luke Fickell. Golden's style was clearly popular, so it'll be interesting to see if Ash’s fiery approach can maintain that same level of success. His expertise should complement the strong defensive talent already present, but the transition could still have its bumps.
Ja’Juan Seider is a big get
With the talented trio of Jerimiyah Love, Jadarian Price, and Aneyas Williams at running back, having someone with Seider’s track record will certainly keep that position as a strength. His experience with developing 1,000-yard rushers at Penn State is a major win for the Irish.
A new GM (Mike Martin)
The search for a new General Manager is definitely an intriguing one. The evolving nature of college football’s rules around recruiting, the transfer portal, and NIL demands a savvy, experienced leader. Mike Martin seems like an excellent choice to help navigate this new era, and building out a robust scouting department could help the Irish gain an edge on the competition, especially with such a complex landscape.
Building for Long-Term Success
All in all, Marcus Freeman is making moves to stay ahead of the curve, and while there are inevitable challenges, these hires could help position Notre Dame for continued success. It's exciting to see how these changes will unfold and if they'll pay off in the long run. What do you think of these moves? Does the future of Notre Dame football look bright to you?
From RIVALS
(6) Football - Notre Dame injury report for winter workouts/spring practices | Notre Dame Fighting Irish fan forums - InsideNDSports
Pulling these from the live updates thread. A lot to digest and I'll get into story form with more context later.
Updates from head football athletic trainer Rob Hunt ...
Gi'Bran Payne, Styles Prescord, Taebron Bennie-Powell, Jason Onye and CJ Carr are all full participants in the winter workouts and have no limitations heading into the spring.
Modified activity: Anthonie Knapp (right ankle), Cole Mullins (left knee), Will Pauling (right fifth metatarsal), Billy Schrauth (left ankle) and Robbie Wollan (right lateral meniscus).
Knapp had surgery a couple days after the Orange Bowl. Pauling's injury was discovered when he came to Notre Dame in January. Schrauth will have a procedure next week during spring break.
Players who are out for spring: Jordan Botelho (right knee), Ashton Craig (left knee), Davion Dixon (right pec), Cooper Flanagan (left achilles), Kahanu Kia (left knee), Chris Terek (right foot and left shoulder), Boubacar Traore (left knee), Chance Tucker (right knee), Jalen Stroman (right clavicle).
Dixon's injury occurred last week.
Flanagan's recovery was described as 8-10 months.
The goal for Kia is to have an unrestricted summer.
Stroman's injury was discovered through the physical examination process. It was taken care of when he arrived at Notre Dame. He'll be able to move around a bit in the spring and is expected to have an unrestricted summer.
Botelho and Traore were both described as progressing really well.
Guys who have individualized plans that will come with some restrictions this spring: Josh Burnham, Bryce Young, Drayk Bowen, Jaylen Sneed, Leonard Moore, Christian Gray, Adon Shuler, Jeremiyah Love, Aamil Wagner and Jaden Greathouse.
They're not injured, but they have specific plans for them coming off last season.