For the fifth consecutive season, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish’s offense is searching for a new starting quarterback. After relying on transfers for the last four seasons, the Irish are poised to develop homegrown athletes in 2025. CJ Carr, a highly touted five-star recruit, is expected to compete for the role, but can he step up and become the leader the team needs?
CJ Carr Replacing Riley Leonard Could Be a Tough Task
Notre Dame’s starting quarterback in 2025 will have large shoes to fill following Riley Leonard’s departure. Leonard was a crucial part of the Irish’s national runner-up offense in 2024, but his tenure had its fair share of ups and downs, especially early in the season.
Leonard helped Notre Dame finish 10th in scoring offense, averaging 36.1 points per game, despite struggles with the offensive line and receiving corps.
In his single season at Notre Dame, Leonard recorded 2,861 passing yards and 21 touchdowns and set program quarterback records with 906 rushing yards and 17 rushing touchdowns.
More than just his statistics, Leonard’s leadership was invaluable. It’s that role as a leader that the next quarterback will have to assume. While no one on the roster is expected to replicate Leonard’s running production, the new starter will still need to take command of the offense.
CJ Carr, a five-star recruit, enters the competition with high expectations. He was ranked as one of the top 50 recruits in the country by major outlets, such as Rivals.com, ESPN, and 247Sports, and he received a top-25 grade on the Irish Breakdown board.
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His performance in the Jersey Scrimmage and Blue-Gold Game caught the attention of both coaches and fans.
In this scrimmage, Carr completed 15 of 23 passes for 165 yards and a touchdown. While Carr’s football intelligence stands out, his physical attributes make him even more promising.
Notre Dame’s Confidence Carr
At 6’3″, 210 pounds, Carr has the size and arm strength to compete at the highest level. His throwing mechanics are smooth, and he delivers the ball with impressive velocity and accuracy.
Carr’s quick release and compact throwing motion help him get the ball out quickly — even under pressure. This arm talent is one of the major reasons why many believe he has the potential to be Notre Dame’s starting quarterback in 2025.
Head coach Marcus Freeman declared in December that the team would stick with their internal options, including Carr, to fill the starting quarterback spot. This is a clear indication that the coaching staff believes in Carr’s potential and is ready to entrust him with the role.
Carr missed part of his freshman season due to an elbow injury, but he has since reported that he is healing well. While there will be competition from other quarterbacks, such as backup Steve Angeli, Carr’s ceiling seems higher. If Notre Dame plans to contend for championships, he seems like the right choice.
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