Transfer Portal Loses Son of Pro Football Hall of Famer at Notre Dame

Notre Dame football is experiencing a notable departure as Kennedy Urlacher, the son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Brian Urlacher, has entered the transfer portal. This move marks the first significant roster change for the Fighting Irish during the spring transfer window.
Kennedy Urlacher’s Notre Dame Journey
Kennedy Urlacher, a 5-foot-11, 200-pound safety, joined Notre Dame as a walk-on and earned a scholarship during his tenure. Over the past two seasons, he participated in 14 games, recording 12 tackles, one tackle for loss, one pass breakup, and one fumble recovery. His contributions were primarily on special teams, where he demonstrated his versatility and commitment. Urlacher has three years of eligibility remaining, providing him with ample opportunity to contribute elsewhere.
Implications for Notre Dame
Urlacher’s departure adds to the list of recent exits from the Fighting Irish program. Earlier, wide receivers Jayden Thomas and Deion Colzie entered the transfer portal, both of whom had been integral to Notre Dame’s offensive schemes. Additionally, cornerback Benjamin Morrison declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, further impacting the team’s depth chart.
Potential Landing Spots
Given Urlacher’s Arizona roots, programs such as Arizona, Arizona State, and Arizona State could be potential destinations. Midwestern schools like Michigan State, Illinois, and Indiana might also express interest, considering their proximity and need for experienced players in the secondary.
Kennedy Urlacher’s entry into the transfer portal signifies a new chapter in his football career. While his departure leaves a gap in Notre Dame’s special teams unit, it also opens opportunities for other players to step up. As the Fighting Irish continue to navigate the spring transfer window, they will look to bolster their roster to maintain competitiveness in the upcoming season.