If there is a concern about Notre Dame’s defense moving forward, it stems from losing both starting defensive tackles and both starting inside linebackers after this season. The prospects who signed Wednesday are not likely to be the ones changing that, but it should be noted both consensus four-star defensive tackles will enroll in January, giving them a decent chance at being ready to contribute when the Irish head to Louisville on Sept. 2.
Even if that does not come to fruition, Hunter Spears and Jacob Lacey very well may be able to handle 12-15 snaps once Notre Dame gets to October, filling a role similar to Jayson Ademilola’s this season (and presumably how Ja’Mion Franklin may have fit if not for a quad injury in September).