Undoubtedly a loss for ND in 2026, but there had been a high probability that this may happen for a while. On a positive note, a healthy Absher, while not Schrauth, is still a starting caliber guard and ND will also be looking for Will Black to take a big jump this year. Assuming Jagusah gets backs into playing shape, ND can still field an OL with exceptionally high upside in 2026.
LT: Knapp
LG: Absher
C: Craig or Otting
RG: Jagusah
RT: Lambert
OR
LT: Black
LG: Knapp
C: Craig or Otting
RG: Jagusah
RT: Lambert
OR
LT: Knapp
LG: Jagusah
C: Craig or Otting
RG: Lambert
RT: Black
Still lots of good combinations that ND could field in 2026 and the good news is that ND has 6 highly winnable games, featuring three Big 10 opponents, to start the season, prior to their game against Miami. That should give the unit plenty of time to gel and work out the kinks, while solidifying the best combination to protect Carr and open up the run game.