Cooper Flanagan's Return Gives Notre Dame QB CJ Carr a Needed 'Tough' Weapon

The veteran tight end's comeback from a torn Achilles injury boosts the Irish's playoff hopes.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 2:27pm

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After missing the 2025 season due to a torn Achilles tendon, Notre Dame tight end Cooper Flanagan has returned to full health and made an immediate impact in the team's spring practice. Flanagan's physicality and blocking ability provide a crucial weapon for Heisman-contending quarterback CJ Carr as the Irish aim to reach the College Football Playoff.

Why it matters

Flanagan's absence in 2025 was a significant blow to Notre Dame's offense, which traditionally relies heavily on the tight end position. His return provides a needed boost as the Irish look to build on a 10-win season and make a push for the national title.

The details

Flanagan, a junior, was trending toward stardom before his injury in 2024, establishing himself as a dominant blocker with reliable hands. His presence was felt immediately in spring practice, with a skirmish during drills highlighting the "grit that the coaching staff has sorely missed." Offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock praised Flanagan's toughness, saying "he's a tough dude that doesn't like to be pushed around."

  • Flanagan tore his Achilles tendon during the 2024 postseason.
  • Flanagan missed the entire 2025 season due to the injury.
  • Flanagan has now returned to full health and is participating in Notre Dame's 2026 spring practice.

The players

Cooper Flanagan

A junior tight end for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish who missed the 2025 season due to a torn Achilles tendon but has now returned to full health.

CJ Carr

The Heisman-contending quarterback for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, who will benefit from having the physical presence of Flanagan as a receiving target.

Marcus Freeman

The head coach of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, who has transitioned the program from "close calls to one of no doubt" as they aim to reach the College Football Playoff.

Mike Denbrock

The offensive coordinator for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, who praised Flanagan's toughness and physicality.

Adon Shuler

A star defensive player for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, who is part of the team's physical defensive identity under Coach Freeman.

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What they’re saying

“That's why I love him (Cooper Flanagan). He's a tough dude that doesn't like to be pushed around.”

— Mike Denbrock, Offensive Coordinator

“Flanagan was feeling '100%'.”

— Jack Soble

What’s next

As Notre Dame prepares for a 2026 playoff push, Flanagan's health and continued development will be crucial to the team's success. The Irish's high-stakes rematch with Miami will be a key test for the team's physical identity and playoff aspirations.

The takeaway

Cooper Flanagan's return from a devastating Achilles injury provides a major boost to Notre Dame's offense and their quest to reach the College Football Playoff. His physicality and toughness will be a valuable asset for quarterback CJ Carr and the Irish as they look to build on a strong 2025 season and compete for a national championship.