What are the 2025 leaders of Notre Dame football, based on Marcus Freeman’s statements?
As the 2025 season approaches for Notre Dame football, there is a sense of excitement and optimism surrounding the team. Head coach Marcus Freeman, now in his third year at the helm, has made it clear that leadership will play a central role in the program’s success moving forward. Freeman, who is known for his emphasis on developing a strong culture of accountability and hard work, has carefully cultivated a group of players who are poised to lead the team in 2025. Based on Freeman’s public statements, these leaders will be crucial in shaping the team’s identity, both on and off the field. Let’s explore who these key leaders are, how Freeman has highlighted their leadership qualities, and what we can expect from them in 2025.
Marcus Freeman’s Leadership Philosophy
Before we dive into the individual leaders, it’s important to understand the leadership philosophy that Freeman has instilled at Notre Dame. From the very beginning, Freeman emphasized that leadership isn’t simply about talent or experience, but about taking responsibility and holding oneself accountable. Freeman’s coaching style focuses on creating an environment where players not only develop their skills but also grow as individuals, mentors, and leaders.
In Freeman’s own words: “Leadership comes from within, from the work you put in, and from the way you inspire your teammates. We need leaders who hold each other accountable and push each other to be better every day.” This focus on leadership development is what makes Freeman’s approach to coaching stand out. He encourages players to be vocal when necessary, but also to lead by example through their actions, commitment, and dedication to the team.
With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at the 2025 leaders of Notre Dame football, as identified by Freeman’s statements.
1. Steve Angeli: The Quarterback Ready to Lead
The quarterback position is often regarded as the most important leadership role on any football team, and for the 2025 season, Steve Angeli is expected to be one of the team’s most influential leaders. Angeli has been with the program for a few years now and has gained valuable experience behind center, which makes him a strong candidate to step into a starting role in 2025. Freeman has been particularly high on Angeli’s work ethic and his ability to step in during critical moments.
“Steve has always been steady,” Freeman said. “He’s someone who doesn’t let the moment get too big, and that’s the kind of leadership you want in your quarterback.” Angeli’s poise under pressure, along with his ability to execute the offense efficiently, has made him a player to watch as the season draws near.
Freeman also emphasized Angeli’s growth as a leader within the locker room. “He’s someone who commands respect not because he’s loud, but because of the way he carries himself. He leads through his preparation and his play,” Freeman remarked. As the quarterback, Angeli’s leadership will extend beyond the field, as he will be tasked with managing the offense, communicating with his teammates, and setting the tone for the rest of the squad.
Key Leadership Qualities:
- Poise under pressure
- Strong communicator on and off the field
- Leads by example and prepares thoroughly
2. Billy Schrauth: The Offensive Line’s Tough Leader
A crucial part of any successful team is the leadership in the trenches, and for Notre Dame, the offensive line will be anchored by one of the most respected players on the roster: Billy Schrauth. Schrauth, who has been a standout on the offensive line for the past few seasons, is expected to be a leader not only because of his experience but also because of his physicality and leadership by example.
Freeman has often praised Schrauth’s ability to set the tone for the offensive line. “Billy is the definition of toughness,” Freeman said. “He brings an edge to every practice, and that mentality is contagious. He’s the kind of guy who will challenge his teammates to be better every single day.” Schrauth’s leadership will be vital as Notre Dame looks to improve its offensive line play in 2025, especially as they seek to protect the quarterback and establish a more consistent running game.
Schrauth’s leadership will also be seen in his ability to mentor younger players. “He understands what it means to be a leader on the offensive line. He’s not just looking out for his own success, but for the success of everyone around him,” Freeman remarked. With his experience and grit, Schrauth will be a key player in creating a strong and cohesive offensive line.
Key Leadership Qualities:
- Toughness and physicality
- Ability to mentor and support younger players
- Challenges teammates to improve daily
3. Jaden Ivey: The Defensive Energizer
While the offense will have its fair share of leaders in 2025, the defense is equally important, and Jaden Ivey is expected to emerge as one of the key leaders on that side of the ball. As a linebacker, Ivey has been a standout performer for the Irish, showcasing his ability to play with intensity and passion. Freeman has consistently highlighted Ivey’s leadership, especially in the context of his ability to motivate the defense and set the tone with his play.
“Jaden is a natural leader,” Freeman said. “He brings the kind of energy to practice and games that you can’t teach. He has a way of getting his teammates fired up and focused.” Ivey’s ability to communicate and keep his teammates accountable will be crucial as Notre Dame looks to field one of the top defenses in the country in 2025.
Ivey’s leadership extends beyond his vocal presence on the field. Freeman has mentioned how Ivey’s work ethic and commitment to his craft inspire the rest of the team. “When Jaden works, he works with purpose. He’s always looking for ways to get better and pushing those around him to do the same,” Freeman remarked.
Key Leadership Qualities:
- High energy and passion for the game
- Ability to motivate and inspire teammates
- Strong work ethic and commitment to improvement
4. Benjamin Morrison and Clarence Lewis: The Secondary’s Cornerstones
The Notre Dame secondary will also rely on strong leadership in 2025, and cornerbacks Benjamin Morrison and Clarence Lewis are expected to be two of the key figures leading the defense from the back end. Both players have been critical to Notre Dame’s defense in recent seasons, and Freeman has been vocal about their growth as leaders within the secondary.
Morrison, who has emerged as one of the top cornerbacks in the nation, is known for his playmaking ability, but Freeman has highlighted his growth as a leader. “Benjamin is a guy who understands what it means to be a leader in the secondary. He’s not only making plays, but he’s helping the younger guys learn what it takes to be successful at this level,” Freeman said.
Clarence Lewis, a veteran of the Notre Dame secondary, will complement Morrison’s leadership in 2025. Freeman has often mentioned how Lewis’s experience will be invaluable in guiding the younger players on the roster. “Clarence has seen a lot of football. He’s a stabilizing presence for our defense, and he knows how to handle tough situations,” Freeman said.
Together, Morrison and Lewis will form a dynamic leadership duo in the secondary, helping to solidify a defensive unit that is expected to be one of the top defenses in the country.
Key Leadership Qualities:
- Strong playmaking ability and defensive awareness
- Ability to mentor and lead a young secondary
- Communication and leadership in high-pressure situations
5. Kevin Bauman: The Resilient Leader
Tight end Kevin Bauman is another player Freeman has highlighted as a leader for the 2025 season. After battling injuries, Bauman has persevered and shown a strong commitment to both his position and his team. Freeman has praised Bauman for his resilience and his ability to maintain a leadership role, even when facing adversity.
“Kevin is a guy who has been through a lot, and his resilience is something that the team really respects,” Freeman said. “He’s a player who leads with his work ethic, and that sets a great example for our younger guys.”
Bauman’s leadership will also extend to special teams, where his experience and versatility will be important. Freeman has stressed that Bauman’s ability to step up in any situation, whether as a tight end or on special teams, makes him a vital leader for the team.
Key Leadership Qualities:
- Resilience and determination
- Ability to lead by example
- Versatility and team-first mentality
6. The Coaching Staff: Guiding Leadership Development
While the players are the ones who will ultimately lead on the field, Freeman’s coaching staff will also play a critical role in shaping the team’s leadership in 2025. Freeman has built a staff that not only emphasizes technical skill development but also focuses on building character and leadership within the players.
Freeman has spoken about the importance of the coaching staff in fostering a culture of leadership. “Our coaches are great mentors, and they’ve been instrumental in helping these players grow as leaders,” Freeman remarked. With a strong coaching staff supporting the development of leadership, Notre Dame is poised to have a balanced and cohesive team in 2025.
Key Leadership Qualities:
- Mentorship and guidance
- Ability to foster growth and accountability
- Consistency in teaching and coaching
