Notre Dame 2025 Linebacker Corps: Poised for a Breakout Season
As the 2025 college football season approaches, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish’s linebacker unit stands out as one of the most promising and dynamic groups on the roster. With a blend of experienced upperclassmen and emerging young talent, this corps is positioned to be a cornerstone of the team’s defensive strategy.
Key Returning Linebackers
Drayk Bowen (Middle Linebacker, Junior)
Drayk Bowen enters his junior season as the anchor of the linebacker corps. After a stellar sophomore campaign, Bowen is expected to step into a leadership role, guiding the defense with his experience and playmaking ability. His ability to read offenses and make crucial stops in the middle will be vital for Notre Dame’s defensive success.
Jaiden Ausberry (Outside Linebacker, Junior)
Jaiden Ausberry has been a consistent contributor for the Irish, showcasing his versatility and athleticism. With the departure of Jack Kiser to the NFL, Ausberry is anticipated to take on a more prominent role in 2025. His ability to rush the passer and cover ground sideline-to-sideline makes him a multifaceted threat in the linebacker unit.
Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa (Outside Linebacker, Sophomore)
A former five-star recruit, Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa has shown flashes of brilliance during his freshman season. Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 231 pounds, he possesses the physical tools to dominate at the collegiate level. With a year of experience under his belt, Viliamu-Asa is poised for a breakout season, bringing both size and speed to the linebacker position.
Emerging Talent
Josiah Kia (Freshman, Linebacker)
Hailing from Honolulu, Hawaii, Josiah Kia is an incoming freshman who has garnered attention for his athleticism and potential. At 6’2″ and 210 pounds, Kia is a rangy linebacker with impressive speed and agility. His ability to cover ground quickly and his high motor make him a promising addition to the linebacker corps. While he may need time to adjust to the college game, Kia’s upside is significant, and he could develop into a key contributor in the coming seasons.
Coaching and Development
The development of Notre Dame’s linebackers is under the guidance of a seasoned coaching staff that emphasizes discipline, technique, and football IQ. With a focus on developing players who can excel in both run defense and pass coverage, the coaching staff has cultivated a linebacker unit known for its versatility and adaptability. This approach has allowed the Irish to field linebackers who can contribute in various defensive schemes and situations.
Projected Depth Chart
| Position | Player | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Middle Linebacker | Drayk Bowen | Junior |
| Outside Linebacker | Jaiden Ausberry | Junior |
| Outside Linebacker | Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa | Sophomore |
| Outside Linebacker | Josiah Kia | Freshman |
Outlook for the 2025 Season
With a blend of experienced upperclassmen and promising newcomers, Notre Dame’s linebacker corps is poised to be a strength of the team in the 2025 season. The leadership of Drayk Bowen, combined with the athleticism of Jaiden Ausberry and Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa, provides a solid foundation. The addition of Josiah Kia adds depth and potential for future contributions. If these players can develop chemistry and execute the defensive schemes effectively, the Irish linebacker unit has the potential to be one of the best in the nation.
As the season progresses, the performance of the linebacker corps will be closely monitored, with expectations high for their impact on Notre Dame’s defensive success. With the right development and execution, the 2025 linebacker unit could become a defining feature of the Fighting Irish’s defense.
