Notre Dame's stellar defensive performance in 2025 has been recognized with six of its players named to the Phil Steele Preseason All-Americans list. Leonard Moore, a lockdown cornerback, stands out with his impressive stats, including 31 tackles, seven pass deflections, a forced fumble, and five interceptions, earning him a spot on the first team. His high coverage grade and recognition as a finalist for prestigious awards further solidify his talent. Tae Johnson, another standout, joins Moore in the secondary, showcasing his skills with four interceptions, three pass breakups, 48 tackles, and a blocked punt return for a touchdown. The team's defensive prowess is also highlighted by the performances of Drayk Bowen and Boubacar Traore, who led with impressive tackles, sacks, and forced fumbles. On the offensive side, CJ Carr and Charles Jagusah received recognition for their contributions. Carr's efficient passing and scoring ability, despite facing a high blitz rate, led to a strong season. Jagusah, unfortunately, missed the entire spring due to injuries, but is expected to be a key player when healthy. The Fighting Irish's success against preseason All-Americans from Miami, BYU, and SMU underscores their potential for a strong season. This recognition from Phil Steele not only highlights individual talent but also sets the stage for a competitive and exciting season ahead for Notre Dame.
