Notre Dame seeks defensive end partner for Boubacar Traore in 2026

Notre Dame's football team is aiming to establish an elite defense for the 2026 season, focusing on the defensive end position opposite Boubacar Traore. While Traore returns after a strong showing, questions remain about who will complement him in the pass rush. Defensive coordinator Chris Ash has three main candidates: Bryce Young, Keon Keeley, and Rodney Dunham, each possessing significant potential. Young aims to improve after a lackluster 2025, Keeley arrives after transferring from Alabama, and Dunham, a highly regarded recruit, seeks immediate playing time. The performance of this group will be crucial in determining Notre Dame's defensive success this fall.

• 10:31 PMYahoo Sports — Notre Dame football's defensive end room opposite Boubacar Traore holds the key to another elite Fighting Irish defense