Marcus Freeman is refreshing his squad significantly this offseason, an effort that comes after a historic campaign in South Bend. While the season was filled with exciting moments that showcased the team’s potential, several rookie mistakes ultimately stood in the way of the team going all the way.
Notre Dame has added eight players from the NCAA transfer portal this offseason, and it remains to be seen if Freeman will add new faces. However, ESPN analyst Greg McElroy seems to have opinions about what the Fighting Irish need ahead of the new season.
Analyst Greg McElroy Breaks Down Notre Dame’s Top Roster Needs
On his YouTube show, ESPN analyst Greg McElroy recently broke down the most significant needs for certain teams in the transfer portal this offseason.
McElroy reiterated what head coach Marcus Freeman has been saying since the spring game.
“Marcus Freeman flat out told us, ‘We’re not actively seeking to add to our roster.’ They’re happy with what they got. That is, according to the head coach. So I will listen to the head coach and take his word for it,” McElroy said.
“They did add eight players to the portal back in December, and there have been times in the past when they’ve gone to the portal this time around the spring window.
“So it’s possible that if a guy leaves, then they may backfill it with some quality in this portal window. But I do not anticipate at this point that Notre Dame will be very active in the portal whatsoever.”
Notre Dame added wide receivers Malachi Fields and Will Pauling, Tight end Ty Washington, DLs Jared Dawson and Elijah Hughes, Cornerback Devonta Smith, Safety Jalen Stroman, and Kicker Noah Burnette from the transfer portal this offseason.
“If there’s something that pops up that we think could help us truly become a better football team, then we’ve got to look at it and address it,” Freeman explained after Notre Dame’s spring game.
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“That just doesn’t mean talent, though; there could be talent that can add to your program, but if it’s not right for the room, it’s not worth it if it’s not right for the big picture of your football program,” McElroy continued.
“But again, we will evaluate if there is a guy that is the right fit for the right room and make decisions here in the next week or so if there’s something that pops up.”
Notre Dame will first test the strategy on August 31 when the Fighting Irish travel to South Beach to take on the Miami Hurricanes.
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