The tight end position at Notre Dame is slightly up in the air as they head through spring training. There's no question around the depth of talent of the room or their abilities to contribute on Saturdays. Rather, there's a question around who, when and where some players will play. Rising redshirt freshman James Flanigan is one of those tight ends battling for that spot.
There's a lot of moving pieces in the tight end room as they head into 2026 with Eli Raridon heading off to the NFL Draft, Cooper Flanagan returning from an achilles injury suffered in 2024 and players like Ty Washington and Jack Larsen who continue to ascend. Flanigan looks to find a solidified spot in the rotation and his growth physically and mentally have been a strong foundation.
"Physically and technique-wise for the run game was where I was used last year," Flanigan explained. "I was focusing on that through last season and was taking the details and really diving into them. So I'm just taking that and applying that to the pass game now because that's a newer thing for me. I just feel really confident recognizing zone versus man, just a better feel for the game and route running, I like that took."
With many talented incoming true freshman, there's an on-going debate on whether to use or burn their redshirt. We knew coming in that the 6-6, 251-pound tight end would be hard to keep off of the field in 2025. He was expected to take on a larger role during the post season, but we know how that storyline unfolded. Flanigan maintained his redshirt but played in some meaningful games last season.
"At the start of the season, I wasn't necessarily ready to play, but I definitely felt as the season went on, I could be out there all the time and eventually was," Flanigan shared. "I think they were trying to do right by me and I have no anger towards them for not playing me those couple of games. I think the plan was, if we made the playoffs, I would have played more. I knew what we were gearing up for and then obviously we didn't make it. Everything happens for a reason. I just have to keep working put in my time."
The tight end room in South Bend is poised for a bounce back season and is loaded with tons of talent. One of the highest ceiling players in the room arrives this summer, Flanagan is back healthy, Washington and Larsen have another year of experience under their belts and Flanigan is looking to make big strides this offseason. There's a lot at stake for Notre Dame heading into 2026 and the tight end room will play a major role in the overall success of the offense.
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