Two Notre Dame football specialists have entered the transfer portal
Notre Dame football is experiencing significant changes this offseason, with several key players entering the NCAA transfer portal. Among them are quarterback Steve Angeli, safety Kennedy Urlacher, and long snapper Rino Monteforte. These departures come as the Fighting Irish prepare for the upcoming season, aiming to build upon their recent successes.
Steve Angeli’s Departure
Quarterback Steve Angeli has announced his intention to enter the transfer portal, seeking to utilize his final year of eligibility elsewhere. Angeli’s decision follows a competitive spring quarterback battle involving CJ Carr and Kenny Minchey. Last season, Angeli served as the backup to Riley Leonard, appearing in 11 games and completing 24 of 36 passes for 268 yards and three touchdowns without any interceptions. Over his career at Notre Dame, he completed 58 of 80 passes for 772 yards, 10 touchdowns, and one interception.
Angeli’s departure leaves the quarterback position open for competition between Carr and Minchey. Head coach Marcus Freeman has yet to name a starter, with a decision expected closer to the season’s start.
Kennedy Urlacher Enters the Portal
Safety Kennedy Urlacher, son of NFL Hall of Famer Brian Urlacher, has also entered the transfer portal. In the previous season, he played in 14 games, recording 12 tackles, one tackle for loss, one pass breakup, and one fumble recovery. Standing at 5’11” and weighing 200 pounds, Urlacher has three years of eligibility remaining. Potential destinations include programs in Arizona, his home state, or other Midwest schools.
Rino Monteforte’s Transfer
Long snapper Rino Monteforte has announced his decision to transfer as a graduate student. Monteforte’s departure adds to the list of special teams players leaving the program.
Impact on Notre Dame’s Roster
The departures of Angeli, Urlacher, and Monteforte signify a period of transition for Notre Dame. The quarterback position, in particular, will be closely watched as the team determines its starter for the upcoming season. Additionally, the loss of experienced players in the secondary and special teams units will require adjustments and the emergence of new talent.
As the transfer portal window remains open, further roster changes are possible. The coaching staff will need to address these departures through recruitment and development of current players to maintain the team’s competitive edge.
Notre Dame’s ability to adapt to these changes will be crucial as they aim to build upon their recent achievements and strive for continued success in the upcoming season.
