Notre Dame Football: Post-spring 2-deep depth chart projections for 2020

Linebackers

Starting weak-side linebacker: Jack Lamb
Backup: Jordan Genmark Heath

This is just about as close as we’ll get to a full blown battle for a starting job on this roster. It’s hard to choose who to list as the starter here, especially given the fact that there’s been little time to assess these two players since the conclusion of last season. For now, consider these two on par with one another.

At the end of the day, this will likely end up being more of a timeshare than anything else given the varying skill sets of these two players. Jodran Genmark Heath, a more versatile defender, may earn most snaps when all is said and done. However, Jack Lamb’s nose for the football makes him a necessity against the run. Look for both of these players to have respectable 2020 seasons.

Starting middle linebacker: Drew White
Backup: Bo Bauer

Unlike the weak-side linebacker position now vacant after the departure of Asmar Bilal, middle linebacker will be returning a friendly face in the form of senior Drew White. White, who tied for first on the team in tackles, was all around the football in 2019, recording eight tackles for loss, two sacks, and two fumble recoveries.

Behind White are juniors Bo Bauer and Shayne Simon, but the former’s familiarity with the position should give him a nod at the starting job in the event of a White injury. Bauer had a much more productive season than Simon, recording 28 tackles including two for loss. Simon, who has moved around a bit since joining the team, might need more time at the position before carving out a permanent role.

Starting rover: Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah
Backup: Paul Moala

One of the most exciting players to watch on the entire Irish roster, senior Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah tied for the team lead with 80 tackles, also adding 13.5 tackles for loss, and 5.5 sacks. Needless to say, Owusu-Koramoah has done a great job filling in at a position that has become a staple of Notre Dame defenses over the years.

Owusu-Koramoah is as much a lock at his position as anyone else on this roster, but Paul Moala is a name that Notre Dame fans should familiarize themselves with as he continues on his journey as Owusu-Koramoah’s likely replacement. The Irish have been specifically recruiting for this position over the past few years, and Moala had rover written all over him when he was brought in.