Notre Dame Has Key Standouts On Defense Who Must Step Up In 2026

Several key players on Notre Dame's defense have the talent to become difference-makers in 2026, but they must take the next step for the Irish to reach their championship ceiling. We identify the defensive standouts under the microscope, including Boubacar Traore, Bryce Young, Armel Mukam, Jason Onye, Drayk Bowen, DJ McKinney, Jayden Sanders, and Christian Gray. Shop for Irish Breakdown gear at our online store: https://ibstore.irishbreakdown.com/ Join the Irish Breakdown premium message board: https://boards.irishbreakdown.com Stay locked into Irish Breakdown for all the latest news and analysis about Notre Dame: https://www.irishbreakdown.com​ Subscribe to the Irish Breakdown podcast on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/irish-breakdown/id1485286986 Like and follow Irish Breakdown on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/irishbreakdown Sign up for the FREE Irish Breakdown daily newsletter: https://www.subscribepage.com/irish-breakdown-newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.