Charlie Partridge, who arrived at Notre Dame after a stint with the Indianapolis Colts, is reshaping the defensive line with a philosophy built around constant competition. His vision calls for fluid rotations that keep every player on edge, ensuring that the unit never settles into a comfort zone.
The line boasts a depth that rivals the best in the nation, anchored by standouts such as Boubacar Traore and Bryce Young, who combined for 60 pressures and 13 sacks last season. Traore averaged 42.7 snaps in 2025, missing only one game due to injury, while Young logged 26 snaps, the second‑highest among Notre Dame ends.
Adding to that mix are transfers Keon Keeley, Francis Brewu and Tionne Gray, who bring size and run‑stopping ability, while returning tackles Jason Onye, Elijah Hughes and Armel Mukam provide continuity. The group also includes Loghan Thomas, Cole Mullins, Rodney Dunham and Ebenezer Ewetade, forming a versatile rotation.
A Wave of Competition
Head coach Marcus Freeman has praised the physicality and size of the new recruits, noting that the line’s strength lies in its ability to keep energy high throughout the game. Partridge’s rotation strategy, reminiscent of past schemes under Al Washington and Mike Elston, aims to prevent reliance on any single player’s production and to sustain a high‑tempo front.