Building Freeman's Identity: Depth Pieces Who Can Impact the Irish

Liam Farrell
Jun 3
2 min read

With Notre Dame looking to return to national championship form, depth will need to be a key strength of Marcus Freeman’s roster in South Bend.

Photo by The Irish Tribune

After multiple season-ending injuries across the entirety of the defense, the integration of young players was ultimately necessary for the 2024 team.

While these players are now immediate difference makers for the 2025 team, here are three potential players that could get thrust into the action to make a difference next year.

Ty Washington

While Ty Washington isn’t a young player, the tight end transfer from Arkansas could see sizable action with the injury to Cooper Flanigan leaving the tight end room a bit scarce, Washington’s emergence over the summer will be crucial in order to back up Eli Raridon.

Washington is a big, athletic framed tight end who specializes more in the run blocking game than in the pass catching department. He has only 14 receptions over three years with the Razorbacks, but anything could happen, and he might be thrust into a pivotal role for the Fighting Irish.

Guerby Lambert

Last season, the Irish had first-hand experience in seeing how easy it is to lose offensive lineman to injury. Especially with the elongated season, Notre Dame needs difference makers along the second-string offensive line to be ready to step up in case of emergency.

With that being said, Lambert appears to be the odd man out in the battle for the starting five for the season opener in Coral Gables against the Hurricanes.

Lambert, the 6’7” 334 lb offensive tackle, could be the first man in given any injury on the line due to Charles Jagusah’s flexibility to move and play anywhere along the line.

Karson Hobbs

The last name on this list is Karson Hobbs, whose performance in the Blue-Gold game has put him on the forefront for this upcoming season.

While Devonta Smith will probably earn the starting nod at the nickel, Hobbs will be the backup right behind him. He would also be the first name off the bench if Leonard Moore or Christian Gray were to go down.

Hobbs is a freakish athlete who has great natural ball skills and exudes confidence throughout his play.

While the 2024 season could provide the Irish a blueprint to the national championship game, depth will be another constant in the Irish's quest for a title.