Notre Dame football defensive end Jordan Botelho is sidelined after undergoing surgery to repair a pectoral injury, a source confirms

Notre Dame football has been dealt a significant blow as senior defensive end Jordan Botelho is expected to miss an extended period of time following surgery to repair a pectoral injury, a development that could have meaningful implications for the Fighting Irish defense this season. A source close to the program confirmed that Botelho underwent the procedure earlier this week and will spend the coming months recovering and rehabilitating in hopes of returning at some point later in the campaign.

Botelho, known for his intensity, physicality, and disruptive presence along the defensive front, entered the offseason as one of Notre Dame’s key returning starters. The 6-foot-2, 255-pound defender had positioned himself as a leader on a unit expected to be among the strengths of the team as it navigates a challenging 2025 schedule. His absence will leave a noticeable void both on the field and in the locker room, where he has been lauded for his work ethic and passion for the game.

The injury reportedly occurred during voluntary summer workouts as the team ramped up its preparation ahead of fall camp. Details regarding the exact moment of the injury remain limited, but it is believed Botelho suffered the tear during a weightlifting session. Upon evaluation by the team’s medical staff and outside specialists, surgery was deemed the best course of action to ensure a full recovery. While there is no official timetable for his return, sources indicate that it is unlikely Botelho will be available for the start of the season, and his status will be reevaluated as the year progresses.

For head coach Marcus Freeman and defensive coordinator Al Golden, the loss of Botelho creates both a challenge and an opportunity. Botelho’s combination of strength, quickness off the edge, and ability to pressure the quarterback had made him a cornerstone of Notre Dame’s defensive front. His contributions last season included 35 tackles, six tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks, along with numerous pressures that disrupted opposing offenses. Beyond the stat sheet, Botelho’s relentless motor and emotional leadership were key components of the Irish defense’s identity.

Replacing a player of Botelho’s caliber will require contributions from multiple sources. The Irish coaching staff will likely turn to a mix of experienced veterans and promising younger players to fill the gap. Senior Nana Osafo-Mensah, who has seen significant playing time in a rotational role, could be called upon to take on a larger share of snaps at defensive end. Osafo-Mensah has long been praised for his strength at the point of attack and could provide stability as the unit adjusts.

Additionally, junior defensive end Joshua Burnham and sophomore Armel Mukam could see their roles expand as the Irish look to maintain their edge presence. Burnham, a former highly-touted recruit, has steadily developed his skills and could be poised for a breakout season. Mukam, though still early in his collegiate career, impressed during spring practices with his athleticism and raw ability, and he may be thrust into action sooner than expected.

Incoming freshmen could also factor into the equation. The staff has been bullish on the potential of the 2025 recruiting class, particularly defensive end signees who bring fresh energy and talent to the group. While it is always a challenge for first-year players to contribute immediately, necessity and opportunity may accelerate their development.

Botelho’s injury will also require schematic adjustments. Defensive coordinator Al Golden, known for his creativity and adaptability, may look to incorporate more hybrid fronts or lean more heavily on linebacker blitz packages to compensate for the loss of one of his most effective pass rushers. The Irish have considerable depth and talent at linebacker, including stars like Jaylen Sneed and Drayk Bowen, who could be used in a variety of ways to generate pressure and maintain the aggressive style that has become a hallmark of Notre Dame’s defense.

Beyond the X’s and O’s, Botelho’s absence will be felt emotionally. A native of Honolulu, Hawaii, Botelho has overcome personal adversity and embraced his role as a leader within the program. His passion for Notre Dame football is evident in the way he plays — with ferocity, heart, and an unwavering commitment to his teammates. Teammates and coaches alike have frequently spoken of his positive influence, both in terms of setting the tone on the field and mentoring younger players off it.

For Botelho himself, the setback is undoubtedly frustrating, particularly as he entered what many viewed as a pivotal season in his college career. With aspirations of taking the next step toward an NFL future, the senior had been focused on refining his game, improving his technique, and preparing to showcase his abilities on a national stage. Now, his attention will turn toward recovery, rehabilitation, and staying engaged with the team as he works his way back.

Notre Dame’s medical and training staff will play a crucial role in that process. Pectoral injuries, while serious, are not uncommon among football players, particularly those who rely heavily on upper-body strength and explosive movements. Recovery timelines vary depending on the severity of the tear and the individual’s healing process, but in many cases, players are able to return to action within six to eight months post-surgery. Whether Botelho will be able to contribute later in the season, potentially during the stretch run or postseason play, remains an open question that will be answered as his rehab progresses.

In the meantime, the Fighting Irish will press forward, rallying around the “next man up” mentality that has long been a staple of the program. Freeman and his staff have emphasized depth-building in recent recruiting cycles, and those efforts will now be tested as Notre Dame aims to maintain its defensive prowess despite the loss of one of its leaders.

The timing of the injury adds another layer of complexity to the situation. With fall camp still several weeks away, the coaching staff will have some time to evaluate options, adjust rotations, and experiment with combinations during practice. That preparation period will be critical as the Irish gear up for a demanding slate that includes matchups against powerhouses such as Texas A\&M, USC, and Clemson — games in which a strong defensive front will be vital.

Support from the Notre Dame community has already begun to pour in for Botelho. Teammates have shared messages of encouragement on social media, while fans have expressed their well-wishes for a speedy recovery. Botelho’s determination and resilience suggest that he will attack his rehabilitation with the same intensity that he brings to the field.

Injuries are an unfortunate reality in college football, and while the loss of a player like Botelho is significant, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of depth, preparation, and adaptability. Notre Dame’s defense, which returns several key contributors and boasts an infusion of young talent, will look to turn this challenge into an opportunity for growth. The hope within the program is that Botelho will be able to return to the field and contribute to what could still be a memorable season in South Bend.

As the summer unfolds and fall camp approaches, all eyes will be on how the Fighting Irish respond. With strong leadership from Freeman, Golden, and the team’s veteran core, Notre Dame will seek to uphold its defensive standard while supporting one of its own in his journey back to health. For Botelho, the road ahead will demand patience, hard work, and resolve — qualities that he has demonstrated in abundance throughout his career. And for Notre Dame, the focus will remain on building a team capable of meeting adversity head-on and competing at the highest level.