Notre Dame’s football program has entered a new phase of physical conditioning, as several key players are redefining their bodies ahead of the upcoming season.
Defensive tackle Tionne Gray, who currently weighs 330 pounds, has set a personal target to shed between 10 and 15 pounds, aiming for a playing weight of 315 to 320 pounds. He says the change is driven by his own vision of becoming a more versatile defender who can line up across multiple downs.
Transfer Keon Keeley, previously at Alabama, is trimming down from 282 pounds to about 275, a move intended to sharpen his agility and fit more comfortably into the Irish defensive scheme.
Coaches stress that these adjustments are not dictated by external pressure but are part of individualized plans overseen by director of football performance Loren Landow. Landow evaluates each athlete’s age, developmental stage and injury history before prescribing a target weight.
A Tailored Approach
Charlie Partridge, the defensive line coach, adds that technique and lean body mass often matter more than sheer size, pointing to recent successes such as Francis Brewu, who has thrived at 285 pounds after arriving from Pittsburgh.
The approach mirrors trends seen across the roster, where players like Aamil Wagner and Rylie Mills once bulked up to meet positional demands, while others such as Calijah Kancey have found effectiveness at 280 pounds.
By tailoring weight goals to the specific needs of each role, the Irish hope to blend power with mobility, a balance that could prove decisive in a competitive schedule.
The staff’s data‑driven methodology reflects a broader shift in college football, where analytics and player health intersect to shape training regimens.