Who Will Be Notre Dame’s Quarterback in 2025? Former Teammates Offer Insight

Introduction: The Quest for a New Quarterback at Notre Dame

Notre Dame has long been a powerhouse in college football, known for its rich tradition, passionate fanbase, and consistent success. One of the most pivotal positions on the team is the quarterback, a role that not only demands skill but also leadership and poise under pressure. As the Irish continue to build their program with a mix of experienced players and young talent, the question on everyone’s mind is: Who will be Notre Dame’s starting quarterback in 2025?

With several candidates emerging from the quarterback room, former teammates and insiders provide valuable insights into what makes each contender tick and the direction the Irish program is headed.

The Landscape of Notre Dame’s Quarterback Position

To fully understand the quarterback competition, it’s important to look at where the team stands in 2025. After a strong run under head coach Marcus Freeman, who took over the program in 2022, Notre Dame has been steadily building its roster. The 2025 season could mark a critical turning point, as the Irish look to continue their rise to prominence in the College Football Playoff race.

• The Departure of Previous Quarterbacks: In recent years, Notre Dame has seen notable quarterbacks like Tyler Buchner (2022-2023) and Drew Pyne (2022) take the field, but both ultimately moved on, either due to injury, graduation, or transfer.
• The Need for Stability: The Irish have often struggled with quarterback consistency, as turnover at the position has hindered the team’s ability to build long-term momentum. Entering 2025, there’s an undeniable sense of urgency to find a stable and high-performing quarterback who can lead the team.

Key Candidates for the 2025 Quarterback Spot

There are several names being tossed around as potential starters for the 2025 season, each with their strengths and weaknesses. Former teammates and insiders within the program have spoken to various outlets about the progression of these players. Let’s break down the top candidates for the starting quarterback position.

1. Sam Hartman – The Graduate Transfer
   Sam Hartman’s arrival at Notre Dame in 2023 as a graduate transfer from Wake Forest was met with excitement and high expectations. The seasoned signal-caller brought with him experience from over four years starting at Wake Forest, leading the Demon Deacons to multiple bowl appearances. However, Hartman’s tenure at Notre Dame was not without its challenges, as inconsistency plagued the offense during key moments.
   According to former teammates, Hartman is a charismatic leader, known for his ability to read defenses and manage the game. His leadership on and off the field has earned him respect from his peers, but many have questioned whether he has the athleticism and flair to consistently elevate Notre Dame’s offense to championship caliber.
   A former wide receiver who played with Hartman recalls, “Sam’s experience is unmatched. He knows how to handle pressure and the grind of the college football season. If anyone has the mental fortitude to take this team to the next level, it’s him.”
2. Tyler Buchner – The High-Risk, High-Reward Option
   Tyler Buchner’s journey at Notre Dame has been a rollercoaster of high expectations, injury setbacks, and flashes of brilliance. After an impressive freshman season in 2022, Buchner looked like the future of the program. However, a season-ending injury in 2023 set him back, leading to questions about his durability and consistency.
   Despite these challenges, former teammates believe Buchner still has the raw talent and athleticism to lead the Irish. A former running back, who played alongside Buchner, explains, “Tyler has a unique skill set. He’s fast, he’s athletic, and he can make plays with his legs when things break down. But it’s all about his development as a passer. If he can stay healthy and find his rhythm, I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s the guy in 2025.”
   Buchner’s ability to extend plays with his legs and make throws on the run makes him an intriguing option. But the question remains whether he can stay healthy and develop into the consistent passer Notre Dame needs.
3. Steve Angeli – The Young Gun
   As a highly rated recruit in the 2024 class, Steve Angeli represents the future of Notre Dame’s quarterback position. Known for his strong arm and football IQ, Angeli comes to Notre Dame with a lot of promise. Although he hasn’t seen significant playing time yet, insiders believe that Angeli could make a strong case for the starting role in 2025.
   A former teammate who had spent time with Angeli during the 2024 offseason says, “Steve has been making great strides. His arm strength is impressive, and he’s been able to pick up the playbook quickly. I think he has all the tools to be a great quarterback for Notre Dame.”
   Angeli’s development will be key for Notre Dame, as many fans and analysts believe the quarterback position could ultimately belong to him once he gains more experience and refines his skills.

The Impact of the Offensive Scheme

The offensive system that Notre Dame employs in 2025 will also play a pivotal role in the quarterback competition. Under Marcus Freeman, the Irish have shifted towards a more dynamic, balanced offense, one that requires a quarterback who can make quick decisions and execute a variety of plays.
Former players believe that the quarterback who thrives in this system will need to be a dual threat—capable of running the ball when necessary, while also making accurate throws in the pocket. A former offensive lineman reflects on this, saying, “In our offense, we need a guy who can read defenses quickly and make decisions on the fly. It’s not just about being able to throw the ball deep; it’s about managing the game and not making mistakes.”

Leadership and Mental Toughness

While physical ability is important, leadership and mental toughness are arguably just as critical for the quarterback position at Notre Dame. The Irish program demands not only on-field performance but also the ability to inspire and motivate teammates.
Former players point to leadership as a major factor in the quarterback competition. One former defensive back, who practiced alongside Hartman and Buchner, remarks, “The leadership aspect is huge. Notre Dame is a big stage, and it takes someone who can rise above the noise. Whether it’s Hartman’s experience or Buchner’s grit, the quarterback needs to own the huddle and inspire confidence.”

Recruiting and Long-Term Outlook

Looking ahead, Notre Dame is already setting its sights on the future of the quarterback position beyond 2025. The 2025 recruiting class, including talented quarterbacks, could further shape the competition and depth chart.
In particular, Notre Dame has received commitments from several elite recruits who could challenge the current quarterbacks. Former teammates note that the coaching staff is eager to develop young talent and provide opportunities for players to step up. A former tight end reflects on this, saying, “Notre Dame has always been a place where young guys are given opportunities to compete. If you can play, you’ll get a shot.”

Who Will It Be?

Ultimately, the question of who will be Notre Dame’s starting quarterback in 2025 remains uncertain. While Sam Hartman offers leadership and experience, Tyler Buchner’s athleticism and raw talent make him a compelling option. Steve Angeli’s development could also lead him to take over the reins in 2025.
No matter who gets the nod, one thing is clear: Notre Dame’s quarterback situation will be one of the most intriguing storylines as the 2025 season unfolds. With the program’s continued growth under Marcus Freeman, the Irish are poised for success, and finding the right quarterback could be the key to reaching the pinnacle of college football once again.

This article draft can be further developed by adding more specific insights from former teammates and breaking down each candidate’s performance metrics in more detail. If you want me to expand on any specific part or add specific player quotes, feel free to let me know!