The Fighting Irish are gearing up for 2026 with a fresh wave of coaching talent, and they've made their big announcements just weeks before spring practices kick off! Notre Dame football revealed a host of new faces and role adjustments to their coaching staff on Monday via social media, and it's got the fanbase buzzing.
But here's where it gets interesting: While some names might be familiar to seasoned observers, others are brand new, all brought in to ensure the Irish leave absolutely no doubt in 2026. Head Coach Marcus Freeman and his trusted assistants have clearly been busy, meticulously vetting each addition to the team. Everyone, from the top coordinators to the analysts, plays a crucial part in the ultimate goal.
Let's dive into the exciting new additions to the 2026 Notre Dame coaching staff:
New Coaching Staff Members:
- Brian Jean-Mary is stepping in as the Linebackers Coach and Run Game Coordinator. Get ready for some tough play on the ground!
- Aaron Henry will be taking on the dual role of Co-Defensive Coordinator and Defensive Backs Coach. Expect the secondary to be locked down!
- Charlie Partridge is joining the team as the Defensive Line Coach. He's known for building formidable fronts.
- JeVaughn Codlin is back as the Safeties Coach. He was part of the Notre Dame family in 2025 and is now returning to South Bend after a brief stint with North Texas.
- Shaun Shivers is coming aboard as an Assistant Wide Receivers Coach, serving in an analyst capacity. He was previously with Florida State.
- Chase Jones is joining as a Defensive Analyst, bringing his expertise to the defensive side of the ball.
- Tylor Henry is a new addition to the Strength and Conditioning Staff, crucial for keeping the athletes in top physical shape.
- Kerry Sanders has been appointed Director of Player Personnel, a key role in managing the roster.
- DJ Bryant is taking on the role of Director of Recruiting Personnel, vital for bringing in the next generation of talent.
And this is the part most people miss: While Partridge and Henry have already had the chance to speak with the Notre Dame media, and Jean-Mary is up next, the other new staffers aren't part of the primary on-field coaching group. However, their contributions are far from minor! The diligence in their selection underscores their importance to the overall success of the program.
Staff Updates and Transitions:
- Tre Reader has seen his role elevated to Defensive Analyst. He's a former Notre Dame player who also worked with the team last year.
- Richard Guarascio is now the Sr. Associate Director of Football Performance. He joined the staff last month.
- Tony Fusco continues his work as Associate Director of Football Performance, having been with Notre Dame in various capacities since 2021.
- Miles Axtell is a new Sr. Strength and Conditioning Coach, joining the Irish from Mississippi State.
- Jourdan Blake is taking on the role of Director of Recruiting Advancement. Interestingly, last year he held the title of Director of Player Personnel, a position now filled by DJ Bryant.
- Myron Tagovailoa-Amosa, another former Notre Dame player, is now the Director of Player Development. Last year, he held the title now occupied by Blake.
It's clear that Notre Dame is building a robust and experienced team behind the scenes, with a mix of fresh perspectives and returning talent. The focus on player development and recruiting infrastructure is particularly noteworthy.
Now, here’s a thought-provoking question for you: With so many new analysts and personnel directors coming in, how much do you think these behind-the-scenes roles truly impact a team's on-field performance compared to the lead coordinators and position coaches? Do you agree with the strategy of bringing in a large number of support staff, or do you think it could dilute focus? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
