Notre Dame's potential replacement options for Charles Jagusah
The team said Jagusah is scheduled to return to campus early this week for further evaluation and that his prognosis from the surgery is "favorable."
While there is no timetable for Jagusah's recovery, it is possible that he could be sidelined between three and six months.
Jagusah was projected to start at left tackle for Notre Dame entering the 2024 season but tore a pectoral muscle early in training camp. After missing the entire regular season, he returned for the Fighting Irish during their College Football Playoff run. He filled in for Rocco Spindler at right guard and then started the national title game against Ohio State at left tackle.
Even if his recovery goes well, Marcus Freeman and the Fighting Irish need to look at other options at that starting RG spot. Here are some possibilities the coaching staff could consider.
Redshirt sophomore Sullivan Absher
Absher makes the most sense to step in for Jagusah. The 6-foot-8, 328-pounder has played both offensive tackle and guard for the Fighting Irish. His pass protection hasn't been excellent, which pushed him inside. But his run blocking is solid, making him a sound option to fill in for Jagusah.
Redshirt freshman Guerby Lambert
Lambert has been dealing with an offseason injury but is expected back for fall camp. We just don't know how available he will be when the Fighting Irish open at Miami on August 31. The 6-foot-7, 341-pounder is a natural offensive tackle, but it would be interesting to see him get reps at guard in camp. ND could also move Anthonie Knapp inside and let Lambert flourish at tackle.
Redshirt sophomore Joe Otting
Would the Irish move Otting over from center? Starting center Ashton Craig is also coming back from injury, so his health will have to be monitored. But the 6-foot-4, 312-pounder is big enough to play guard, and he's quick on his feet. Certainly he is an intriguing option.
Sophomore Anthonie Knapp
Jagusah took snaps almost exclusively at right guard in the spring, so Knapp is most likely slated to be the starting left tackle once again for the Irish. But the 6-foot-4, 294-pounder could slide inside. He had an up and down season in 2024 but improved as the year went on and seemingly has a bright future at tackle. He could be a quick fix inside, though. Knapp was one of the team's most dominant run blockers last fall. If Will Black can play right away as a true freshman, Knapp could shift inside.
My choice?
Absher. He has experience at the position and his run blocking is solid. And no other pieces along the unit would need to be moved.
Jagusah may still be able to see the field in 2025, but the Irish need to explore other options. Thankfully there are plenty of them on coach Joe Rudolph's unit.
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