Notre Dame Builds 20-Man Defensive Line Amid Injury Challenges

As college football teams gear up for the 2025 season, several key positional battles and player developments are shaping team outlooks. Notre Dame's defensive line, recovering from significant injuries last year, boasts over 20 scholarship players, including returning starter Gabriel Rubio and new transfers, aiming to provide depth and resilience. Meanwhile, former Penn State quarterback Sean Clifford is fighting for a roster spot with the Green Bay Packers, competing for the third quarterback position behind established starters amidst a lackluster preseason showing. Ohio State faces a critical offensive line battle at right tackle between Ethan Onianwa and Phillip Daniels, highlighting the importance of protecting a yet-to-be-decided starting quarterback ahead of a high-profile game against Texas. At Minnesota, defensive line depth is a concern with key players recovering from injuries and surgery, creating uncertainty about who can fill critical roles. On the professional front, former Notre Dame offensive lineman Blake Fisher continues to struggle in his second NFL season with the Houston Texans, despite potential openings on the offensive line after the trade of Laremy Tunsil, underscoring the challenges early entrants to the draft can face in establishing themselves.