While the offseason discussions about the Notre Dame football team have largely centered around who will take on the starting quarterback role, other positions are also crucial for the Fighting Irish’s success. Wide receiver is definitely one of those key areas, especially given the group’s previous underperformance. Will Pauling, in particular, has the potential to shine in 2025.
Although Pauling’s stats in 2024 weren’t impressive, his earlier performance suggests he could make an impact for the Irish. Head coach Marcus Freeman appears to see him as a significant asset on the team.
Will Pauling is gaining Freeman’s admiration as a potential breakout player in Notre Dame’s evolving offensive strategy. “He practices at a different pace and with a greater intensity than what I’ve seen before,” Freeman shared with On3’s Tyler Horka. He remarked that “Will Pauling practices with a level of intensity, purpose, and intentionality that he has never observed in a wide receiver.”
All of this has to get Fighting Irish fans excited about the potential for Pauling to become a primary target for either CJ Carr or Kenny Minchey. Despite dealing with an injury last season, he still managed to record 42 receptions for 407 yards and 3 touchdowns.
In 2023, however, he truly emerged in Luke Fickell’s dynamic offense, catching 74 passes for 837 yards and 6 touchdowns. While it’s unlikely he will replicate those numbers with the Blue and Gold offense, having a player capable of such performance in South Bend is certainly thrilling.
Horka was clearly impressed by Freeman’s enthusiastic remarks about the transfer wide receiver.
“I’d keep an eye on Will Pauling. Since we didn’t see much of him during the spring due to his recovery from the injury he suffered at Wisconsin, we haven’t witnessed his full potential in a Notre Dame uniform. You might see his best when it really counts.”
If Pauling can continue to develop, the Notre Dame football team could surprise many with its aerial attack.
No Comment! Be the first one.