Notre Dame's 10 most interesting players of spring practice, from flashing freshmen to rising vets

Whether it's a starter, a rotational player or a breakout freshman, these are the players drawing buzz at Notre Dame this spring.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 12:33pm

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As Notre Dame prepares for the upcoming season, several players have stood out during spring practice, including offensive tackle Blake Black, defensive tackle Fredrick Brewu, quarterback CJ Carr, defensive end Keon Dunham, wide receiver Kaleb Graham, cornerback Christian Gray, quarterback Noah Grubbs, running back Jayden James, defensive back Tae Johnson, and linebacker Jack Sneed.

Why it matters

These 10 players have the potential to be key contributors for the Irish this season, whether as starters, rotational players, or breakout freshmen. Their performances during spring practice will help shape Notre Dame's outlook for the upcoming year as the team aims to compete for a national championship.

The details

Blake Black has emerged as the starting left tackle, bumping two-year starter Anthonie Knapp inside to left guard. Fredrick Brewu impressed in the weight room, benching 475 pounds, and could be primed for a breakout season on the defensive line. Quarterback CJ Carr is already making suggestions to tweak the offense and is considered one of the nation's top returning QBs. Freshman defensive end Keon Dunham has flashed impressive pass-rushing ability in his first spring practices. Ohio State transfer Kaleb Graham is expected to be a key addition to the receiving corps. Christian Gray is being evaluated at the nickel position, which could open up opportunities for other defensive backs. Freshman quarterback Noah Grubbs has shown a strong arm and the ability to make plays. Running back Jayden James is drawing praise for his mature approach to nutrition and preparation. Defensive back Tae Johnson has been making plays in practice, challenging quarterback CJ Carr. Linebacker Jack Sneed is looking to finish his career on a high note with the opportunity for increased playing time due to injuries.

  • The Blue-Gold Game is scheduled for April 25.
  • Notre Dame's season opener is scheduled for September 2.

The players

Blake Black

A redshirt sophomore offensive tackle who has emerged as the starting left tackle, bumping two-year starter Anthonie Knapp inside to left guard.

Fredrick Brewu

A defensive tackle who impressed in the weight room by benching 475 pounds and could be primed for a breakout season on the defensive line.

CJ Carr

The starting quarterback who is considered one of the nation's top returning QBs and has been making suggestions to tweak the offense.

Keon Dunham

A freshman defensive end who has flashed impressive pass-rushing ability in his first spring practices.

Kaleb Graham

An Ohio State transfer wide receiver who is expected to be a key addition to the receiving corps.

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What they’re saying

“He does things the right way. He's constantly improving. It's what you want from young players.”

— Billy Schrauth, Outgoing guard

“I try not to get too excited about those things, because it's one aspect of performance, but when you see that in front of you, and it gets the room excited, those are the things that, obviously, everybody wants to talk about.”

— Loren Landow, Strength coach

“I don't know that there's any film in our system that he did not watch. I mean, he did film breakdowns on probably a dozen NFL teams, just watching different quarterbacks, creating cut-ups of concepts that they run that are similar to us that he'd like to implement, looking at under-center footwork.”

— Gino Guidugli, Quarterbacks coach

“He looks great physically for a freshman who just got here. He's pretty serious about what he does. If he makes a mistake, he takes it personal, but he takes to coaching and he tries to correct it the next time he's out there. ... It's obviously too early to tell, but for a freshman and what he's been able to do physically, as well as fundamentally, it's been pretty impressive.”

— Chris Ash, Defensive coordinator

“I remember when he came on his visit and we were watching film, I'd tell him what a play was and we'd fast-forward five plays later and that play would pop up again. He'd like stop me and tell me, 'OK, this is the one where this guy had this...' So I know he learns really fast.”

— Mike Brown, Receivers coach

What’s next

The team will continue spring practice over the next few weeks, leading up to the Blue-Gold Game on April 25. The performance of these 10 players will be closely watched as Notre Dame aims to solidify its roster and prepare for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

Notre Dame has a talented roster with several players poised to make a significant impact this season. The development of these 10 players during spring practice will be crucial in determining the team's outlook and potential for a successful campaign, including a potential run at a national championship.