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McKinney Out Extended Time for Notre Dame
30 Oct
Summary
- Cornerback DJ McKinney will miss an extended period.
- McKinney's return is expected later this season.
- Injury impacts availability for upcoming Miami game.
Notre Dame's cornerback DJ McKinney is facing an extended absence due to a right ankle injury. Coach Marcus Freeman confirmed that McKinney, a key transfer portal addition from Colorado, will miss a significant amount of playing time. While Freeman expressed optimism about McKinney's return later in the current season, a swift comeback is not expected.
McKinney, who has recorded one interception and two pass breakups through seven games this season, will be unavailable for Saturday's road contest against Navy. The timing of his injury is critical, as it diminishes the Irish's defensive strength heading into a highly anticipated game against No. 1 Miami in two weeks. A healthy McKinney would have been crucial for defending Miami's star wide receiver Malachi Toney.
The Fighting Irish, currently ranked No. 5 nationally, are aiming to build momentum against Navy to prepare for the Hurricanes. A victory over Miami could significantly bolster Notre Dame's College Football Playoff aspirations, especially after missing out on last year's tournament.
