As the college football transfer portal prepares to open, Notre Dame is bracing for a significant shift in its defensive lineup. Defensive end Joshua Burnham has announced his intention to enter the transfer portal, a decision that could impact the team’s defensive core heading into the 2025 season.
Burnham, a native of Traverse City, Michigan, joined Notre Dame as a freshman in 2022 and has made a notable contribution over his three seasons with the Fighting Irish. He has participated in every game, recording 64 tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss, and six sacks. His performance has notably improved, particularly in the latter half of the most recent season, showcasing his potential as a key player on the defense.
This announcement marks a considerable loss for Notre Dame, which has already faced challenges in depth along the defensive line. Recent developments, including the medical retirement of Donovan Hinish and uncertainty surrounding Jason Onye’s NCAA eligibility petition for a sixth year, have heightened concerns about the team’s defensive front.
While there is promising young talent on the roster, Burnham’s experience and skillset had already positioned him as a vital component of the Irish defense. The absence of his contributions could necessitate bringing in additional veterans to bolster the defensive line, highlighting the need for strategic acquisitions through the transfer portal this offseason.
As the Fighting Irish look to navigate these changes, they remain focused on recruiting quality players to ensure they maintain competitiveness in the college football landscape. This season, the urgency surrounding defensive line depth reflects the growing importance of seasoned players who can contribute immediately as the team aims for a successful campaign in the upcoming seasons.