As the summer sun beats down on South Bend, marking the countdown to the 2025 college football season, a palpable buzz is emanating from the Guglielmino Athletics Complex. Under the relentless drive of Head Coach Marcus Freeman, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish are not just preparing for another season; they are visibly making significant physical and developmental gains in the offseason, turning heads and fueling widespread optimism about their championship aspirations.
The “offseason gains” at Notre Dame are more than just anecdotal whispers from campus. Official roster updates, internal reports, and observations from strength and conditioning staff indicate a noticeable transformation across key position groups. This isn’t simply about adding weight; it’s about intentional, targeted development, designed to enhance strength, speed, and durability, aligning with Freeman’s vision for a physically dominant and mentally tough football team.
A recent release of the updated 2025 roster has provided concrete evidence of these gains. Several players have notably packed on significant, quality weight, signaling a commitment to enhancing their power and functional strength.
- Antavious “Scrap” Richardson (WR): Transitioning from high school quarterback to wide receiver this spring, Richardson arrived in South Bend at 169 pounds. He has already put on an impressive 16 pounds, now standing at 6-0, 185 pounds. While he might not be an immediate starter, this gain indicates a serious dedication to his new position and a bright future.
- Joe Otting (IOL): Once an undersized offensive line recruit, Otting has packed on another 15 pounds, now tipping the scales at 6-4 and 312 pounds. This added mass is crucial for an interior offensive lineman, and he’s positioned to potentially be the future center for the Irish.
- Charles Jagusah (OT): A highly touted offensive tackle, Jagusah has gained 13 pounds this offseason, now at a robust 6-7 and 331 pounds. This is described as “very solid 331 pounds,” suggesting it’s good weight. Now set to start at right guard, a healthy and bulked-up Jagusah could be a breakout star.
- Ethan Long (S): In a secondary that is getting bigger and more physical, Long has put on 13 pounds, making him the heaviest safety on the roster at 6-3 and 211 pounds. This added size will be crucial for his physicality against tight ends and in run support, contributing to what is being called the deepest and biggest safety room in recent memory.
- Bryce Young (EDGE): Already a massive defensive end, Young has surprisingly added another 13 pounds, reaching 6-7 and 273 pounds. This is an intimidating frame for an edge rusher and highlights the program’s focus on building a powerful defensive front.
- Madden Faraimo (LB): The talented linebacker has gained 11 pounds, now standing at 6-2 and 235 pounds. In a deep linebacker room, Faraimo’s added mass will enhance his ability to shed blocks and be a more impactful presence.
- Cole Mullins (DL): After an “odd journey” that saw him move to defensive tackle despite being undersized, Mullins has added 11 pounds and is now at 6-5 and 273 pounds. This significant gain suggests a renewed focus on his optimal playing weight and position.
- Jordan Botelho (DE), Sullivan Absher (OL), Boubacar Traore (DE), Adon Shuler (S), Cooper Flanagan (TE), Gi’Bran Payne (RB), Kedren Young (RB), Jadarian Price (RB), Nolan James (RB), Elijah Hughes (DT), Guerby Lambert (OL), Jaiden Ausberry (LB), Junior Tuihalamaka (DE), Christian Gray (CB), Loghan Thomas (DE), DeVonta Smith (NB), and Josh Burnham (DE) all registered gains of 4 pounds or more, with some adding 7-10 pounds. This widespread gain across multiple position groups underscores a systemic approach to physical development.
These aren’t just random weight increases; they reflect a strategic effort by the strength and conditioning staff to optimize players’ physiques for their roles. Offensive linemen are getting stronger to dominate the line of scrimmage, defensive linemen are bulking up to command double teams and set edges, and skill players are adding functional strength without sacrificing speed.
The visible physical transformations are a direct byproduct of Marcus Freeman’s “Choose Hard” culture, which permeates every aspect of the program, including offseason training. This isn’t just about lifting weights; it’s about instilling discipline, mental toughness, and a relentless work ethic.
- Competitive Environment: The offseason program under Freeman fosters an intensely competitive yet supportive environment. Players push each other, knowing that every pound gained, every rep completed, and every sprint executed contributes to the team’s collective goal.
- Player Buy-In: The widespread gains demonstrate a significant buy-in from the players. They trust the coaching and strength staff’s plan and are fully invested in maximizing their physical potential. This level of commitment is crucial for sustained success.
- Injury Prevention and Durability: Beyond pure strength, the offseason program focuses on building durable athletes. Added muscle mass and strength can help players withstand the rigors of a long college football season, reducing the risk of injury. This is particularly important for a team with national championship aspirations, where depth and health are paramount.
- Confidence and Momentum: These physical gains build tangible confidence within the locker room. Players feel stronger, faster, and more prepared for the challenges ahead. This internal momentum can translate directly to on-field performance.
These offseason gains directly impact several key position groups that are expected to be the bedrock of Notre Dame’s 2025 campaign:
- Offensive Line: With multiple linemen packing on size and veterans returning, the offensive line is drawing significant praise. Despite losing some starters to the transfer portal, the depth and development within the unit, particularly with players like Jagusah and Otting adding mass, suggest they could be one of the best in the country. Improved pass protection, especially for a new starting quarterback, will be a critical area of focus.
- Running Backs: The Irish return one of the nation’s most loaded running back rooms, led by Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price, both of whom have also reportedly made offseason gains. The added weight by Gi’Bran Payne, Kedren Young, and Nolan James only enhances the power and versatility of this already dynamic unit, ensuring they can absorb carries and contribute in the passing game.
- Defensive Line/Edge Rushers: The weight gains by Bryce Young, Cole Mullins, Jordan Botelho, and others suggest a concerted effort to create a more imposing and disruptive defensive front. This will be crucial for generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks and stopping the run.
- Secondary: The added size to safeties like Ethan Long and Adon Shuler, combined with the influx of top-tier talent in the 2026 recruiting class (who are undoubtedly following similar strength programs), indicates a strategic aim to build a bigger, more physical, and versatile defensive backfield.
The 2025 college football season is quickly approaching, and the visible offseason gains by Notre Dame players are sending a clear message: the Fighting Irish are not content with past successes. Under Marcus Freeman’s demanding yet nurturing leadership, they are meticulously building a physically imposing and mentally resilient roster, laying the groundwork for what they believe will be a championship-caliber season. The transformation taking place in South Bend is more than just about individual player development; it’s a reflection of a program operating at peak efficiency, relentlessly pursuing excellence in every facet of its preparation.
