Notre Dame Fans React to Steve Angeli Entering the Transfer Portal
In April 2025, Notre Dame quarterback Steve Angeli announced his decision to enter the NCAA transfer portal, signaling the end of his tenure with the Fighting Irish. This move has sparked a wave of reactions from fans and analysts alike, reflecting a mix of support, surprise, and speculation about the future of Notre Dame’s quarterback position.
Steve Angeli’s Notre Dame Journey
Steve Angeli, a former four-star recruit from New Jersey, joined Notre Dame with high expectations. Over his three seasons with the Fighting Irish, Angeli showcased his abilities in various roles, including as a backup quarterback and in special teams. Notably, he started in the 2023 Sun Bowl against Oregon State, leading the team to a commanding 40–8 victory. In that game, Angeli completed 15 of 19 passes for 232 yards and three touchdowns, in addition to rushing for 27 yards on three carries .
Despite these flashes of brilliance, Angeli found himself competing for the starting quarterback position in 2025 against fellow quarterbacks CJ Carr and Kenny Minchey. With only one year of eligibility remaining, Angeli’s decision to enter the transfer portal was anticipated if he did not secure the starting role .
Fan Reactions: A Spectrum of Emotions
The announcement of Angeli’s departure has elicited a range of responses from Notre Dame fans. Many expressed gratitude for his contributions and wished him well in his future endeavors. On social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), fans reminisced about his pivotal moments, particularly his performance in the Sun Bowl.
However, some fans voiced disappointment, feeling that Angeli deserved more playing time during the regular season. They questioned the coaching staff’s decision to not utilize his talents more extensively, especially given his success when given the opportunity .
Others speculated about the implications of his departure on the team’s quarterback competition. With Angeli’s exit, the battle for the starting position now centers more squarely on Carr and Minchey, both of whom bring their own strengths and potential to the table.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Notre Dame’s Quarterback Position
Angeli’s transfer leaves Notre Dame with a quarterback room consisting of CJ Carr, Kenny Minchey, and incoming freshman Blake Hebert. Carr, a redshirt freshman and the grandson of former Michigan head coach Lloyd Carr, is highly regarded for his strong arm and football IQ. Minchey, a sophomore, offers dual-threat capabilities and has shown flashes of brilliance in limited action. Hebert, a true freshman, brings excitement and potential but lacks collegiate experience.
Head coach Marcus Freeman and quarterbacks coach Gino Guidugli now face the task of evaluating these quarterbacks to determine who will lead the team in the 2025 season. The decision will be crucial, as the starting quarterback often serves as the face of the program and plays a significant role in the team’s success.
Steve Angeli’s decision to enter the transfer portal marks the end of a chapter in Notre Dame football. While his time with the Fighting Irish was marked by moments of promise and potential, the competitive nature of college football has led him to seek opportunities elsewhere. As fans bid farewell to Angeli, they now turn their attention to the future, eagerly awaiting the emergence of a new leader under center for the Fighting Irish.
