The NCAAF season has officially wrapped up, and the Ohio State Buckeyes have emerged as the champions. Meanwhile, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish showcased their competitive spirit, proving to be formidable opponents, even though they fell short in the final game. As the dust settles, Marcus Freeman and his squad are already looking to the future, especially with the recent departure of one of their star players who has declared for the upcoming NFL Draft.
Xavier Watts, the standout safety for the Notre Dame team, will officially end his College Football career as he takes the leap to the NFL. The news was shared by the player himself through his social media platforms, signaling a significant transition for both him and the Fighting Irish program.
“I hope that my time in the Irish uniform has helped continue the tradition of those that came before me. Thank you to the fans for embracing me into the Notre Dame Family, and I promise to keep striving to make you all proud. I am excited for what God has planned as I get ready for the 2025 NFL Draft!“
Throughout the season, Watts has become a key piece in Freeman’s defense. He participated in every game and, over the last two years, recorded an impressive 13 interceptions, a feat unmatched in the FBS. His contributions were pivotal to the team’s defensive strategies and overall performance.
Watts’ Impact on the Team
In his final season alongside quarterback Riley Leonard, Watts had a standout performance with 82 tackles, four tackles for loss, six interceptions, including an interception return for a touchdown, and 10 passes defensed. His ability to read the game and make crucial plays has left a lasting mark on the Fighting Irish’s defensive unit.
Xavier Watts #0 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish speaks to the media during the Notre Dame Fighting Irish media day at the Georgia World Congress Center prior to the 2025 CFP National Championship between the Ohio State Buckeyes and Notre Dame Fighting Irish on January 18, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.
Freeman faces more challenges
The exodus of players from Notre Dame continues after their loss in the championship game against the Ohio State Buckeyes. The team is grappling with the impact of players seeking new opportunities, and the latest news has added to the growing list of departures.
Sam Pendleton, an OL who played seven games this season for the Fighting Irish, has decided to end his time with the team and has committed to wearing the colors of the Tennessee Volunteers. This move marks another significant shift for the Notre Dame offensive line.
The announcement came from College Football journalist Hayes Fawcett, who reported Pendleton’s decision on social media: “BREAKING: Notre Dame transfer OL Sam Pendleton has committed to Tennessee. The 6’4, 300-pound OL will have three years of eligibility remaining. He started seven games this season.”
Sam Pendleton #72 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish blocks against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets during the fourth quarter at Bobby Dodd Stadium on October 19, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia.
Pendleton’s departure adds to the recent announcement of Rocco Spindler, who also decided to join the Transfer Portal and seek new opportunities. Spindler played a significant role in the team, starting in 13 of Notre Dame’s 16 games this season and contributing to special teams.
As Marcus Freeman navigates this challenging period, he faces the daunting task of rebuilding his roster while maintaining the competitive edge that Notre Dame is known for. The loss of key players like Watts and Pendleton raises questions about the team’s future, but it also opens doors for new talent to emerge. Will the Fighting Irish be able to bounce back and reclaim their spot among the elite in college football? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the passion for the game remains strong in South Bend.
