In an exciting turn of events for college football fans, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish have officially signed Jared Dawson, a talented defensive lineman from the Louisville Cardinals. This transfer is expected to significantly improve Notre Dame’s defense as they gear up for the upcoming season.
Who is Jared Dawson?
Jared Dawson is a big name in college football following his impressive stint at Louisville. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing 305 pounds, Dawson is known for being a sturdy nose tackle. He played five seasons with the Cardinals, giving him a wealth of experience that the Fighting Irish are eager to tap into. When he entered the NCAA Transfer Portal on December 14, 2023, it didn’t take long for college football fans to realize a big opportunity was on the horizon for Notre Dame.
Impressive Stats from His Time at Louisville
Dawson’s performance on the field speaks for itself. Throughout his college career, he showcased his skills and resilience:
- In 2022, he played in all 12 games, boasting 16 tackles.
- In 2023, he participated in 10 games, achieving 12 tackles, with 3 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks.
- This past season in 2024, he recorded 19 stops, including 6.5 tackles for loss and 4 sacks, alongside 1 forced fumble.
With these impressive statistics, it’s easy to see why Dawson has been a sought-after player and why his commitment to Notre Dame has fans buzzing.
A Significant Addition to Notre Dame’s Roster
Jared Dawson is not just an addition; he’s a key player in a pivotal role. His presence strengthens the Fighting Irish’s defensive line, which is vital for any football team aiming for success. Dawson is ranked as the No. 25 defensive lineman in the Transfer Portal by On3, highlighting how valuable this move is for Notre Dame. With a group of transfers joining him, including Devonta Smith, Will Pauling, Malachi Fields, and Ty Washington, Dawson’s arrival emphasizes a fresh start and renewed energy for the team.
Why Does This Matter?
Notre Dame’s football team has high hopes for the upcoming season, and adding experienced players like Dawson is a fundamental part of their strategy. By strengthening their defense, they aim to become real contenders in the college football landscape. And with spring practices around the corner, Dawson is expected to enroll soon, ready to make a strong impression.
What’s Next for Notre Dame?
As this thrilling offseason unfolds, Notre Dame will continue to make moves that could lead to promising outcomes in their quest for a championship. With this latest addition, fans are optimistic about the Fighting Irish’s prospects in the upcoming season. Keeping an eye on how quickly Dawson integrates into the team will be exciting, especially as the Fighting Irish look to improve their competitiveness on the field.
Dawson’s Journey Begins at Notre Dame
Fans and players alike are looking forward to seeing what Jared Dawson brings to South Bend, Indiana. As a seasoned player entering his sixth year through the benefits of a redshirt and COVID-19 exemption, he has the experience that many younger players can learn from. This not only adds depth to the line but also creates an environment of development and teamwork.
| Season | Games Played | Tackles | Tackles for Loss | Sacks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 12 | 16 | – | – |
| 2023 | 10 | 12 | 3 | 2.5 |
| 2024 | – | 19 | 6.5 | 4 |
