Spring football always ushers in the next wave of college football stars, and at Notre Dame, one name is quickly rising to the forefront: CJ Carr.
After an impressive 2025 campaign, Carr enters the 2026 season with growing expectations. Despite being only a redshirt freshman last year, he showed poise, efficiency, and a strong grasp of the position, especially for a quarterback leading one of the sport’s most high-profile programs. Now, the spotlight is firmly on him.
CJ Carr Looks Like the Next Big Thing for Notre Dame
With that spotlight has come early buzz about the 2027 NFL Draft. But if you ask Carr, individual accolades aren’t what’s driving him.
According to Notre Dame beat writer Mike Berardino, Carr was recently asked about projections that have him as a potential top draft pick in 2027. His response said everything about his mindset:
“If we maintain our daily focus, we’re going to be really good.”
WATCH: #NotreDame QB CJ Carr was asked about being projected as a top draft pick in 2027. He spoke about team goals instead.
If Irish maintain their daily focus, “We’re going to be really good.”#NotreDame #NFL pic.twitter.com/RzMcy6eqS9— Mike BerardinoNDI (@MikeBerardino) March 25, 2026
It’s a simple statement, but one that speaks volumes. Rather than entertaining draft speculation, Carr immediately redirected the conversation toward team success, a reflection of both his maturity and the culture surrounding the program.
That culture starts at the top with head coach Marcus Freeman, whose emphasis on accountability and team-first mentality has clearly resonated. Carr’s approach embodies that philosophy, and it’s a big reason why he’s viewed as such a special talent, not just physically but mentally.
Still, the on-field production backs it up.
Carr posted a strong 85.9 PFSN CFB QB Impact Score in 2025, ranking 23rd nationally. Even more impressive was his efficiency: a 24-6 touchdown-to-interception ratio that highlighted his decision-making and ability to protect the football, traits that translate at any level.
Heading into 2026, Carr is expected to take a significant leap. With key changes around him, including the departure of star playmaker Jeremiyah Love, the offense will increasingly run through the quarterback. It’s Carr’s team now.
Fortunately for Notre Dame, he won’t be doing it alone. The Irish return a talented supporting cast and are set to face several high-profile opponents, giving Carr plenty of opportunities to shine on the national stage.
Expectations are already sky-high. According to PFSN’s CFB Playoff Meter, Notre Dame currently holds the highest probability to win the national championship, a testament to both the roster and the belief in Carr’s leadership.
But if you’re looking for Carr to buy into the hype, you might be waiting a while.
For him, it’s not about the 2027 draft. It’s about the next practice, the next game, and the bigger picture: winning as a team. And if his mindset is any indication, Notre Dame might be in for something special.
