Get ready, Notre Dame fans, because the 2026 football season is shaping up to be a game-changer—and it all starts with a coaching staff that’s as bold as it is strategic. With just two and a half weeks until spring practices kick off, the Fighting Irish have unveiled a lineup of new hires and staff updates that’s turning heads across college football. But here’s where it gets controversial: not everyone is on the field, yet every single addition is crucial to Notre Dame’s mission to dominate in 2026. Let’s break it down.
Meet the New Faces
- Brian Jean-Mary: Steps in as the linebackers coach and run game coordinator, bringing a wealth of experience to tighten up the defense.
- Aaron Henry: Takes on the dual role of co-defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach, a move that’s already sparking debates about defensive strategy.
- Charlie Partridge: Joins as the defensive line coach, tasked with transforming the line into an unstoppable force.
- JeVaughn Codlin: Returns to South Bend as the safeties coach after a brief stint at North Texas—a rehire that’s raising eyebrows.
- Shaun Shivers: Hired away from Florida State, he’ll serve as the assistant wide receivers coach (analyst), adding speed and precision to the playbook.
- Chase Jones: Brought in from Wake Forest as a defensive analyst, his insights could be a game-changer.
- Tylor Henry: Joins the strength and conditioning staff, focusing on building a team that’s as strong as it is resilient.
- Kerry Sanders: Steps into the role of Director of Player Personnel, a behind-the-scenes position that’s critical for team cohesion.
- DJ Bryant: Takes the helm as Director of Recruiting Personnel, a move that signals Notre Dame’s commitment to securing top talent.
And this is the part most people miss: While some of these hires aren’t part of the primary on-field staff, head coach Marcus Freeman and his trusted assistants have meticulously vetted every addition. Whether they’re in the spotlight or working behind the scenes, each member is integral to Notre Dame’s 2026 vision. Take Codlin, for example, who was rehired after a brief departure, or Shivers, poached from Florida State—these moves highlight Notre Dame’s determination to assemble the best possible team.
Staff Updates That Matter
- Tre Reader: Former Notre Dame player turned defensive analyst, his role has been elevated to bring fresh insights to the defense.
- Richard Guarascio: Joins as Sr. Associate Director of Football Performance, focusing on optimizing player potential.
- Tony Fusco: Continues his work as Associate Director of Football Performance, a role he’s held since 2021.
- Miles Axtell: A Mississippi State alum, he’s the new Sr. Strength and Conditioning Coach, bringing a fresh perspective to player fitness.
- Jourdan Blake: Shifts from Director of Player Personnel to Director of Recruiting Advancement, a strategic move to streamline recruiting efforts.
- Myron Tagovailoa-Amosa: Moves into the role of Director of Player Development after previously serving as Director of Recruiting Advancement.
Bold Question for You: With such a diverse and strategically assembled staff, is Notre Dame setting the stage for a championship run in 2026? Or are they spreading themselves too thin with so many new faces? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate you won’t want to miss!
