Notre Dame 2026 Season Preview: Irish Linebackers Set To Dominate

Notre Dame’s 2026 season preview spotlights an elite linebacker corps expected to set the tone early and late. The unit is ranked No. 1 in the country by Phil Steele and No. 2 overall by Georgia, with a first-year position coach, Brian Jean-Mary, tasked with maximizing depth and role clarity. The article points to the need for buy-in across the depth chart, while players align with Marcus Freeman’s “team glory in front of yourself” approach. It cites 2025 production swings under a new defense led by Chris Ash, with the top five linebackers combining for 7.0 tackles for loss and 26 pressures in the first six games, then 17.0 tackles for loss, 9.0 sacks, and 44 pressures in the final six. In 2026, all five top rotational returnees could deliver more disruptive, consistent play.