A new College Football season is about to begin, and with it comes the Notre Dame Fighting Irish’s hope of returning to the National Championship Game — this time with a different outcome. Marcus Freeman will likely have CJ Carr as his starting quarterback, but he’ll be without one of his most experienced tight ends on the field.
This past weekend, the facilities of this prestigious program were shaken by the major news of a season-ending injury to Kevin Bauman. The TE will not only have to undergo knee surgery, but he also confirmed that he is stepping away from the sport altogether.
The news was confirmed by the player himself, who, in a recent announcement on his social media, shared the devastating update regarding his health — one that prevents him from continuing to play football at a professional level.
“Unfortunately, I have suffered yet another season-ending injury. I have been struggling to let it all soak in,” Bauman wrote on Instagram. “I have taken a few days and prayed about it. While my football journey has come to an end, I can confidently say the rest of my life is just getting started.”
Kevin Bauman #84 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in action against the Marshall Thundering Herd during the first half at Notre Dame Stadium on September 10, 2022 in South Bend, Indiana.
“Notre Dame means everything to me: opportunity, growth, resilience,” Bauman also added. “I have made incredible connections and, most importantly, I have grown my faith to the strongest it has ever been. This place is so special.”
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NCAAF News: Marcus Freeman makes major admission about Tyler Buchner’s return to the Fighting Irish as a QB
Another key loss for Freeman
Notre Dame’s running back room has taken a significant blow with the news that sophomore Kedren Young has suffered a season-ending injury. The promising second-year back tore his ACL during fall camp, an unfortunate turn of events for a player who was reportedly having a strong start to the preseason and was expected to compete for a larger role.
Young, who rushed for 116 yards and a touchdown in seven games as a true freshman, was a versatile and physical presence who brought a different dimension to the Irish backfield. While Notre Dame has impressive depth at the position, the loss of Young is a tough blow, as his potential for a breakout season will now have to wait until next year.
The start of a new hope
The goal for the Irish is clear: return to the National Championship Game and this time finish as NCAAF champions. To achieve this, Marcus Freeman’s squad must first overcome these early obstacles to prove they’re ready for the challenge:
- @ Miami, August 31st
- vs Texas A&M, September 13th
- vs Purdue, September 20th
- @ Arkansas, September 27th
- vs Boise State, October 4th
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