Notre Dame’s Angeli Enters Transfer Portal, Clearing Path for Next QB Star

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — Notre Dame quarterback Steve Angeli has entered the NCAA transfer portal as a graduate transfer, confirmed sources to ESPN on Thursday. Angeli, who served as the backup last season during the Fighting Irish’s College Football Playoff run, is looking for a fresh start as he prepares for his redshirt junior season.

The 6-foot-3, 205-pound quarterback appeared in 20 games over three seasons at Notre Dame, completing 58-of-80 passes for 772 yards with 10 touchdowns and only one interception. His notable performance came during the critical moments of the semifinal game against Ohio State, where he led a decisive 52-yard scoring drive after the starter, Riley Leonard, exited with a potential head injury.

Angeli’s first career start came during the Sun Bowl against Oregon State at the end of the 2023 season, where he threw for 232 yards and three touchdowns in a significant 40-8 victory. His exit from Notre Dame’s roster comes amidst a competitive battle for the starting quarterback position this spring, where he faced strong competition from C.J. Carr and Kenny Minchey.

Following the spring game on Saturday, Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman expressed confidence in all three quarterbacks, stating, “It’s crazy to think that you’ve got three guys that all can lead the program to a victory and be your starting quarterback. So we’ll evaluate it and have a discussion moving forward.” This leaves the competition open for Carr, who ranked as the No. 4 quarterback recruit in the 2024 ESPN 300, and Minchey, ranked No. 180 overall in the 2023 ESPN 300.

Angeli commented previously on his commitment to Notre Dame, saying, “I think this is exactly where I’m meant to be right now, to be honest with you. Notre Dame is the place for me and I’m exactly where I want to be.” However, with the ongoing quarterback competition, the decision to transfer appears to be a strategic move for his career.

While competing for the starting role earlier this spring, Angeli maintained focus on his performances, stating, “It doesn’t matter if they brought one in or not, I’m going to focus on my reps and control what I can control.” His positive outlook and confidence in his abilities have been clear, as he has expressed the belief that he can lead any team successfully.

Despite Angeli’s exit, Notre Dame remains optimistic about its quarterback future, as C.J. Carr has generated interest due to his impressive high school stats and family legacy as the grandson of former Michigan coach Lloyd Carr. Carr has stepped into the spotlight after leading the team in Saturday’s spring game, throwing for 170 yards and two touchdowns on 14-of-19 passing.

As Notre Dame prepares for the upcoming season, the loss of Angeli could both create challenges and present opportunities within the quarterback unit. The program will continue to evaluate its talent and potential to rebuild its offensive leadership moving forward amidst the changes.