CJ Carr: Notre Dame’s Quarterback of the Future

As the 2025 college football season approaches, Notre Dame’s quarterback position has become a focal point of discussion. With the departure of veteran quarterback Steve Angeli to the transfer portal , the competition for the starting role intensifies. Among the contenders, redshirt freshman CJ Carr stands out as a promising candidate to lead the Fighting Irish offense.

Background and Recruitment

CJ Carr, a 6’3″, 210-pound quarterback from Saline, Michigan, joined Notre Dame as part of the 2024 recruiting class. A consensus four-star recruit, Carr was highly sought after, with offers from top programs such as Michigan, Georgia, LSU, and Wisconsin . Despite his family’s strong ties to Michigan—his father, Jason, played quarterback for the Wolverines, and his grandfather, Lloyd Carr, served as their head coach—Carr chose to commit to Notre Dame, citing the program’s academic prestige and football development opportunities .

During his high school career at Saline High School, Carr showcased his exceptional talent, passing for over 2,700 yards and 24 touchdowns in his senior season. His performance earned him invitations to prestigious events like the All-American Bowl and the Elite 11 Finals, solidifying his reputation as one of the nation’s top quarterback prospects .

Freshman Season and Development

Carr’s freshman season at Notre Dame was marked by limited playing time. He appeared in one game, primarily serving as a backup to starting quarterback Riley Leonard. The coaching staff decided to redshirt Carr, allowing him to preserve a year of eligibility and focus on developing his skills without the pressures of immediate competition .

Despite the limited on-field experience, Carr utilized his time to adapt to the collegiate level. He worked closely with the coaching staff to refine his mechanics, improve his decision-making, and familiarize himself with Notre Dame’s offensive system. His commitment to growth during this period has positioned him as a strong contender for the starting quarterback role in the upcoming season.

The 2025 Quarterback Competition

With the departure of Steve Angeli, the quarterback competition at Notre Dame has narrowed to two primary candidates: CJ Carr and sophomore Kenny Minchey. Both quarterbacks bring unique strengths to the table, making the decision for the starting role a critical one for head coach Marcus Freeman.

Carr’s arm strength, accuracy, and football IQ make him a compelling choice. His ability to make all the necessary throws and his understanding of the game are qualities that have impressed the coaching staff. Additionally, Carr’s leadership skills and work ethic have earned him the respect of his teammates, further bolstering his case for the starting position.

On the other hand, Minchey offers a different skill set. Known for his mobility and playmaking ability, Minchey can extend plays with his legs and create opportunities outside the pocket. His dual-threat capabilities add a dynamic element to the offense, providing a contrasting style to Carr’s more traditional pocket-passing approach.

The decision between Carr and Minchey will ultimately depend on the offensive philosophy that Coach Freeman wishes to implement. If the focus is on a pro-style offense that emphasizes passing and pocket presence, Carr may have the edge. Conversely, if the offense aims to incorporate more read-option and designed quarterback runs, Minchey’s dual-threat abilities could be more beneficial.

Looking Ahead

As spring practices continue and the team prepares for the 2025 season, the quarterback competition remains ongoing. Both Carr and Minchey are expected to receive significant opportunities to showcase their abilities in practice and during the team’s Blue-Gold spring game. The outcome of this competition will have a profound impact on Notre Dame’s offensive strategy and overall performance in the upcoming season.

For CJ Carr, the chance to become the starting quarterback at Notre Dame represents the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. It also signifies the beginning of a new chapter in the storied history of Fighting Irish football. Should he secure the starting role, Carr will have the opportunity to lead Notre Dame back to prominence and potentially position himself for a future in professional football.

CJ Carr’s journey from a highly touted recruit to a potential starting quarterback for Notre Dame underscores the program’s commitment to excellence and development. His blend of talent, intelligence, and leadership makes him a formidable candidate to lead the Fighting Irish in the 2025 season. As the competition unfolds, all eyes will be on Carr as he strives to fulfill the legacy of Notre Dame quarterbacks and guide the team to success on the national stage.