Injuries sideline key linebackers as Notre Dame leans on depth this spring

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Spring practice is underway for Notre Dame Fighting Irish football, but one of the team’s deepest position groups is focused less on competition and more on recovery.

The linebacker room, widely considered one of the most athletic and experienced units on the roster, is navigating multiple injuries as the Irish work through spring ball.

Sophomore linebacker Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa, one of the defense’s most explosive young players, is out this spring as he continues to recover from ACL surgery. Viliamu-Asa recorded 48 total tackles, three sacks and an interception last season. Coaches are taking a long-term approach to his return, without a timeline set. 

“I’m about three months in, and I feel like I’m in a great spot,” Viliamu-Asa said. “Really just taking it day by day and hoping next time I step on the field I’m 200%.”

Junior linebacker Drayk Bowen is also limited after finishing last season with 67 total tackles. Bowen, a key leader in the middle of the defense, said he is targeting a return around May or June. Bowen said he’s prioritizing full recovery over rushing back.

“It’s been a pretty good spring and knowing I don’t have to rush back is pretty nice,” Bowen said. “I get to really fully recover and not have to push it early and maybe something tweaks.”

Freshman linebacker Madden Faraimo is dealing with a minor arm injury early in camp as well but has already shown flashes in limited reps, including sacks and pass breakups.

Linebackers coach Brian Jean-Mary emphasized patience with the group as they work back to full strength.

“As coaches, we wanted them back yesterday. You always want your best players out there,” Jean-Mary said. “But I understand the process and we know how vital those guys are to us during the season. We’re not going to rush it, and those guys are chomping at the bit to get out there.”

Despite the setbacks, Notre Dame’s outlook at linebacker remains strong. Getting players like Viliamu-Asa and Bowen healthy will be critical as the Irish aim to stay in the national conversation heading into the 2026 season.