By the end of the 2023 season, Notre Dame’s defence was among the best in the country thanks to significant progress achieved in that area. Much of the success that culminated in the 10-3 record this past season was powered by the Irish defence.
In order for Notre Dame football to become recognised as a top defensive football programme, the team must begin building on consecutive outstanding seasons. The 2024 defence has a decent opportunity to accomplish that, which is fantastic news. Although there will be changes to the unit’s appearance and a loss of players, the team still has a possibility to be very good.
Right now, every member of the defensive staff is expected to be back, which is crucial for Notre Dame as it tries to build consistency on that side of the ball. When the NFL offseason arrives, defensive coordinator Al Golden will probably be vying for the same position, but Notre Dame will make every effort to retain him.
This week’s player arrivals on school make it the ideal moment to get a sneak peek at Notre Dame’s 2024 defence.
Notre Dame’s 2023 defence will be missing a number of excellent players who will be difficult to replace. The defence, like the offence, had a wide rotation of players this season, with 16 different players earning starts. Players that have started at least four games this season—that is, one-third of the regular season—will be considered starters for this article.