Notre Dame's stellar defensive performance shines through in the recent Phil Steele Preseason All-Americans list, with six players earning recognition. Leonard Moore, a lockdown cornerback, stands out with his impressive statistics, including 31 tackles, seven pass deflections, a forced fumble, and five interceptions, earning him a spot on the first team. His performance in 2025, despite missing games due to injury, showcases his exceptional skills, as evidenced by the highest coverage grade among Power Four cornerbacks and his strong case for prestigious awards. Tae Johnson, another standout, joins Moore in the secondary, having been named a Freshman All-American last season. Despite a late start and missing games, Johnson's contributions were significant, with four interceptions, three pass breakups, 48 tackles, and a blocked punt return for a touchdown. The defensive line is further bolstered by Drayk Bowen and Boubacar Traore, who led the team with impressive statistics in 2025, including Bowen's 65 tackles and Traore's 6.5 sacks. On the offensive side, CJ Carr and Charles Jagusah also received recognition, with Carr's efficient performance and Jagusah's potential to become one of the best offensive guards in the country. However, Jagusah's season was cut short due to a series of surgeries, leaving his return timeline uncertain. The team's success against preseason All-Americans from Miami, BYU, and SMU highlights the depth and talent of Notre Dame's roster, making them a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season.
