Notre Dame can’t seem to get a break this offseason, at least in some areas.
After losing the national championship game against Ohio State, the Fighting Irish continue to take hits. The latest gut punch? Deland McCullough, running backs coach, will join the Las Vegas Raiders.
McCullough was more than simply an assistant coach; he was instrumental in creating Notre Dame’s powerful backfield in recent seasons. Under his leadership, star players such as Jeremiyah Love and Audric Estime thrived, with Love rushing for over 1,100 yards and 17 touchdowns last season. McCullough’s ability to develop talent will be much missed in South Bend, especially given how essential the run game has been to Notre Dame’s offensive success.
His resignation is only the latest in a run of losses for the program. Earlier this summer, defensive coordinator Al Golden left to pursue the same role with the Cincinnati Bengals. While the Irish immediately hired Chris Ash, a former Rutgers head coach and experienced NFL assistant, Golden’s departure will be felt.
And don’t forget about the offensive line: starters Rocco Spindler and Pat Coogan also left, creating significant gaps up front. That’s not even counting your predicted losses, the most significant of which is having to replace starting quarterback Riley Leonard.
It’s been a wild few weeks for Notre Dame supporters, who have gone from celebrating a national title run to seeing key players and coaches leave the program. Head coach Marcus Freeman has his work cut out for him, not just in filling these positions, but also in maintaining the club competitive in 2025.
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What is the good news? Freeman’s team will most certainly be favorites in all 12 games in 2025, yet Notre Dame will still have the talent to challenge and return to the College Football Playoff.
