Notre Dame Spring Practice Midpoint: Checking In on the Most Intriguing Players| Plus, More Basketball Portal Moves

This episode of Locked On Irish provides a comprehensive mid-season check-in on Notre Dame's spring football practice, highlighting key players across both offense and defense who are shaping up to be pivotal in the 2026 season. On offense, CJ Carr has emerged as a commanding quarterback with Heisman-caliber focus and preparation, while Nolan James Jr. is proving his maturity and physical readiness as a running back. Mylon Graham has quickly become a standout wide receiver, potentially taking over as the team's top target, and Will Black is showing promise as a redshirt freshman left tackle despite early challenges. Defensively, Keon Keeley and Jay Nosberry are emerging as intriguing figures with high ceilings, while Jaden Sanders and Ethan Long remain in the mix for starting roles despite stiff competition. The episode also shifts to the men's basketball program, where the departure of Marcus Burton and Cole Serta—along with previous transfers—has left head coach Micah Shrewsbury facing a daunting rebuild. The hosts express deep concern over the program's decline, questioning Shrewsbury’s ability to turn things around without significant institutional support and a complete overhaul of strategy and culture. The episode concludes with a call for transparency and structural change from the university to revive a once-proud basketball tradition.