Senior offensive lineman Charles Jagusah, a projected key starter for Notre Dame’s 2025 season, sustained a fractured left arm while off the field on July 5, 2025. The injury occurred during a utility terrain vehicle (UTV) accident in Wyoming. Notre Dame officials confirmed that he underwent surgery to repair a fractured humerus and reported a favorable initial prognosis .
Jagusah is no stranger to overcoming adversity. Last summer, he endured a torn right pectoral muscle during preseason camp, costing him nearly the entire 2024 regular season. Remarkably, through sheer resilience and dedication to rehabilitation, he managed a dramatic return in time for the College Football Playoff (CFP). He contributed significantly in the semifinal win over Penn State and played every offensive snap in the national championship game loss to Ohio State .
Looking ahead, his absence raises questions about Notre Dame’s depth chart. Originally penciled in as the starting right guard for the 2025 season, his injury now leaves a crucial vacancy. Offensive line coach Joe Rudolph and others will need to determine who steps in—perhaps Sullivan Absher, who gained valuable experience last season, or Anthonie Knapp, who has previously started at tackle.
Notre Dame opens its season August 31 at Miami, a matchup where offensive trench strength is likely to be pivotal. Jaguarsah’s injury could leave a noticeable void—at least temporarily. While no official timeline for his return has been announced, many analysts expect he’ll miss the early games, although there remains hope he’ll be back by late September.
Reflecting on his past comeback efforts, Charles has shown resilience and determination. His successful return during the CFP campaign is still fresh in fans’ minds—a testament to his work ethic and importance to the team . What remains uncertain is how long he will be sidelined this time. The surgery’s “favorable” prognosis suggests a relatively smooth recovery, but as Notre Dame’s staff reiterated, it’s still too early to project exact timelines .
In the interim, the Irish will rely on the “next man up” philosophy. Coach Joe Rudolph’s experience navigating last year’s line injuries could prove vital. Meanwhile, offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock praised Charles’s relentless mentality—“I’ll do whatever it takes to win, whatever my team needs”—illustrating both his talent and his leadership.
Off the field, fans and teammates have rallied around Jagusah, emphasizing understanding and support rather than criticism over the nature of the accident. After all, injuries are inherent in college athletics—especially when players step away from the gridiron for leisure or travel.
As Notre Dame prepares for fall camp and the upcoming season, the focus will be on rallying around Jagusah, exploring roster options, and preserving line synergy. In recent years, the Irish offensive line has demonstrated adaptability and resilience through defensive front adversity .
For Jagusah, the road to recovery will involve follow-up evaluations upon his return to campus, continued rehabilitation, and cautious reintegration into team activities. His medical team and coaching staff will ensure he’s at full strength before returning to live action—a process that is expected to take several weeks.
Despite the setback, the tone within Notre Dame circles remains upbeat. A strong program with multiple veteran linemen, capable backups, and depth built through recruiting ensures they aren’t left scrambling if Jagusah’s return is delayed. The scars and intangibles his presence brings to the line—leadership, versatility, physicality—won’t be easy to replace, but they will survive in his absence .
