ESPN cites Notre Dame’s tight end corps as a question mark heading into new season.
Notre Dame has a strong history of producing high-quality tight ends, many of whom go on to play in the NFL, including last season’s leading receiver, Mitchell Evans. In fact, since 2011, the Fighting Irish have had 10 tight ends selected in the NFL Draft.
The Fighting Irish are one of the top contenders to once again reach the College Football Playoff in 2025 after their exhilarating run last season. But is the tight end position actually a cause for concern?
ESPN published a piece detailing a potential question mark for the nation’s top contenders, and Mark Schlabach labeled the position as potentially murky.
There is no doubt the Irish upgraded at wide receiver with Malachi Fields (Virginia) and Will Pauling (Wisconsin). But on paper, is tight end a question mark?
Senior Eli Raridon has very good size and soft hands. The potential is there. But he has been plagued by injuries, so remaining on the field is critical after he had 11 catches for 90 yards with two touchdowns in 2024. Meanwhile, the status of Cooper Flanagan is in question after he tore his left Achilles tendon in the Sugar Bowl.
If he stays healthy, though, a breakout season from Raridon could be on the horizon. And there is better depth than some may imagine.
Jack Larsen was a true freshman in 2024 but has really good hands. Meanwhile, Ty Washington transferred in from Arkansas. Keep in mind two seasons ago he had a seven-catch, 90-yard and two-touchdown effort at Ole Miss.
Maybe there isn’t a definitive NFL Draft pick of this bunch, but the Irish may not be lacking options at tight end in 2025.
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