As the 2026 college football season approaches, the focus shifts to the Notre Dame receiving corps, which is grappling with significant changes and uncertainty. While the defensive lineup is largely established, the offense faces a challenge following the departure of key players such as Jeremiyah Love, JD Price, and Malachi Fields, all of whom have moved on to the NFL. This exodus has left a noticeable gap in production and experience, raising questions about the team’s offensive capabilities.
At the helm of the Irish offense is CJ Carr, who enters his second year as the starting quarterback. Carr is recognized for his exceptional passing skills, but the effectiveness of the offense will heavily depend on the performance of the receiving corps. The uncertainty surrounding who will step up to catch Carr’s passes adds an element of intrigue as the season draws near.
Evaluating the Returning Talent
Among the returning players, Jordan Faison stands out as the most dependable option. While he may not possess overwhelming speed or size, Faison consistently makes impactful plays whenever he gets the ball. His agility and ability to evade tackles make him a valuable asset for the Irish.
Joining Faison are Jaden Greathouse and Micah Gilbert, both of whom bring experience but also face pressure to perform. Gilbert recorded only nine catches in the 2025 season, while Greathouse struggled with an injury that hindered his contributions. This trio will form the core of the receiving group, and their performance will be critical for the passing offense to thrive.
New Faces and Rising Stars
The arrival of Mylan Graham and Quincy Porter from the transfer portal has injected new talent into the roster. Both players, having come from Ohio State University, are known for their athleticism. However, their lack of experience, with fewer than ten career catches combined, raises questions about their immediate impact.
The key challenge for these newcomers will be adapting quickly to the demands of college football. The potential exists for them to flourish under Carr’s leadership, but a steep learning curve may also lead to inconsistent performances. Their development will likely be pivotal in determining whether the receiving corps can compete at a championship level.
In addition to the more established players and the promising transfers, other talents like Cam Williams, Elijah Burress, Jerome Bettis Jr., Logan Saldate, Brayden Robinson, Kaydon Finley, and Devin Fitzgerald provide additional depth. There is ample opportunity for one or more of these players to make a significant impact and establish themselves as key contributors.
With the 2026 season on the horizon, the pressure is on the Notre Dame receiving corps to elevate its game. The potential for success is there, but it will require these players to seize their opportunities and deliver when it matters most. As the Irish strive to reach their season goals, the performance of the receiving group will be crucial in shaping the trajectory of the offense.