Notre Dame Football: Projected 2-deep depth chart for 2019 season

Linebackers

Starting linebackers: Asmar Bilal (Buck), Drew White (Mike)
Backups: Jack Lamb, Jordan Genmark Heath, Shayne Simon, Bo Bauer

We’re going to cheat a little bit here and make the linebackers discussion more of a three-deep depth chart. After all, we could really see all six of these players, maybe more, earning meaningful snaps in 2019.

Asmar Bilal is virtually a lock (for the time being) at the buck linebacker position. After recording 95 total tackles in three years for the Irish, Bilal’s experience makes his presence as a starter a necessity to start the season. Drew White, who has bounced around on the depth chart in the wake of various injuries, will get the first opportunity for the Irish at middle linebacker.

Sophomore Jack Lamb hasn’t quite carved out a role for himself on this team just yet, but there’s a reason why the Irish switched him over to buck despite an injury-plagued freshman year. Jordan Genmark Heath is also a valid option behind Bilal and could be first in line given his experience up to this point.

Sophomores Shayne Simon and Bo Bauer have been competing for snaps behind White, and both have a legitimate shot to make the field should the situation call for it. Defensive coordinator Clark Lea has made it clear the Irish will be taking somewhat of a committee approach to the linebacker position, playing to player’s strengths as the situation demands it.

Starting rover: Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah
Backup: Paul Moala

The rover position, which has been a staple for the Irish defense for a while now, is one of much less controversy and fluidity when compared to what’s happening at the traditional linebacker spot. Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, a junior practically built for the rover spot, has the position locked down as far as the Irish are concerned.

Sophomore Paul Moala is next on the depth chart, but the Irish may turn to other options as well should Owusu-Koramoah ever go down.