Notre Dame Kicker Woes: Can Transfer Solve Field Goal Struggles?

As of August 9th, 2025, Notre Dame's field goal kicking struggles from the 2024 season remain a key focus heading into the upcoming campaign. The team converted just 55.6% of their field goal attempts last year, a concerning statistic for a program with high aspirations.

The primary reason for this subpar performance was the injury troubles of starting placekicker Mitch Jeter. Brought in from South Carolina, Jeter had a strong start to the season, including a game-winning kick against Penn State. However, a lower-body injury limited him for much of the year, as he made only 13 of 21 field goal attempts.

Recognizing the need for improvement, Notre Dame has once again turned to the transfer portal, this time snagging Noah Brunette from North Carolina. Brunette had a solid 2024 season with the Tar Heels, converting 15 of 21 attempts (71.4%). For his college career, he has hit 79% of his field goal tries.

While Brunette's recent numbers may not inspire overwhelming confidence, Notre Dame's special teams coordinator Marty Biagi has a proven track record of developing kickers. Biagi was instrumental in Jeter's late-season surge, and the team is hopeful he can work similar magic with the new transfer.

As the Fighting Irish prepare for the 2025 season, their field goal kicking unit will be a critical area to monitor. If Brunette can provide more consistency and reliability, it could be a significant boost for a team with championship aspirations.