We continue with the Notre Dame defense as we discuss the linebacking corps in this segment. Ideally, coaches look for players in these roles who are multidimensional. They can take on and shed blocks, cover and tackle in space, and get home on a blitz. In 2024, the Irish were strong in the latter two areas. They did have difficulty getting off blocks during the playoffs, though. Another year of strength and conditioning should help. Another trait that is difficult to measure is the instincts a linebacker possesses. Throughout history, this has separated merely good linebackers from the great ones.

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This remains a young group in 2025 but the talent level rivals any other program in college football. Speed is the element that separates these Irish linebackers from many previous editions. With the invaluable experience gained last season, you have a formidable core of battle tested athletes.

The most significant development during the offseason is that Notre Dame was able to retain its young talent. Other teams tried to entice multiple players to transfer. They were unsuccessful, and money was not the sole determining factor. A common theme throughout these previews is the culture that Marcus Freeman has built. This is why it matters and why Notre Dame recruits players who fit that culture.

Portal Losses: None

Other Losses: Jack Kiser (expired eligibility)

Portal Additions: None

Retained Players: Jaylen Sneed, Drayk Bowen, Jaiden Ausberry, Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa,  Preston Zinter, Kahanu Kia, Bodie Kahoun, Teddy Rezak

Incoming Freshmen: Madden Faraimo, Ko’o Kia, Anthony Sacca

Sneed and Ausberry are relatively small but aggressive linebackers who are especially effective against the pass. Their speed and agility are undeniable. Bowen is a larger presence in the middle and the designated thumper. He had many hit or miss moments last season but his improvement trajectory was steady. Viliamu-Asa is a full-sized hybrid who can play all three downs with speed and power. His freshman season gives rise to hopes for dominant campaigns in 2025 and beyond.

The rest of this season’s rotation will consist of players who saw little or no action in 2024. Kahanu Kia tore his ACL last June and missed the season. He demonstrated raw ability last spring but will have to work his way back. Zinter is a player who made good progress last fall and should be ready to contribute this season. Less is known about Kahoun and Rezac. They will have a chance to prove themselves this spring.

All three freshmen are highly rated recruits. Faraimo is the most likely to crack the rotation due to his size and range. His physical traits and overall game resemble Viliamu-Asa in many ways. Ko’o Kia joins his older brother after a very productive high school career. Sacca has above-average instincts and speed. He and the younger Kia will fit in nicely in 2026 but may need a year of seasoning.

Spring practice will bring more clarity but there appear to be seven players fighting for extensive playing time. Sneed, Bowen, Ausberry and Viliamu-Asa are certain to continue in their previous roles. Zinter should be ready to contribute and Kahanu Kia can join him if his knee is fully recovered. Faraimo has enrolled early and could pass others on the depth chart if he is as good as advertised.

Position Coach Max Bullough will miss the expertise of Jack Kiser as he prepares his troops for the 2025 season. Sneed and Bowen are the primary candidates to assume leadership positions and help the young talent around them to be successful. Bowen in particular appears to possess the natural instincts to excel. The group also needs to be more physical at the point of attack against the run. Injuries made it difficult for the defensive line to clog up the running lanes in 2024. If this year’s front four can hold their own, this group of linebackers behind them can dominate.