Notre Dame Freshmen, Transfers, Injuries Shape 2025 Football Outlook

Notre Dame football is preparing for the 2025 season with several promising freshmen and returning players drawing attention during fall camp. Freshmen cornerback Mark Zackery IV and offensive lineman Matty Augustine have impressed coaches despite limited media coverage, with Zackery potentially earning a rotational defensive role if he adds weight. Wide receiver Jaden Greathouse, coming off a strong 2024, missed a recent practice but is not considered seriously injured and is expected to have a breakout season. Alabama transfer DeVonta Smith is set to start at nickel cornerback, bringing a blend of coverage skills and playmaking ability to bolster the secondary. The offensive line is younger this year due to transfers but features returning starters Anthonie Knapp and Aamil Wagner, with several young players making strong progress. Injury updates include defensive end Jordan Botelho recovering from a torn pectoral muscle with an uncertain timeline, while teammate Boubacar Traore is also gradually returning from an ACL injury amid a deep defensive end rotation.