Notre Dame’s offensive line was already a big question mark entering 2024 after both tackles were lost to the draft following the 2023 season. Add to that the fact that the first game was against a fast and physical Texas A&M defense, and this position was the top topic of discussion in training camp for everyone with Irish interests, fans and media alike.

With all the pressure on Joe Rudolph’s team heading into training camp, they couldn’t afford to let anything slip. That’s exactly what happened: They lost a projected starter for the year to injury before a single game was even played.

Charles Jagusah is just such a good player and he cannot be replaced immediately.

He wasn’t just any starter, the projected star at left tackle is gone after a season-ending knee injury. The man who was supposed to protect the quarterback’s blindside – the offensive line’s most important job – has died, and now the scramble begins.

What’s next? Will Tosh Baker move from the right side of the line to the left?

Could a younger player step in and compete for that position? One thing is for sure: Whatever plan Notre Dame has, it has to work and work well.

The last thing the Irish can afford is for Riley Leonard, a quarterback who recently underwent ankle surgery, to be harassed and repeatedly hit from the blind side.

The Irish need to make the right decision, and they have little time to do so, as Texas A&M’s defense needs to figure out a solution very, very soon.

Now the coaching staff and depth will be put to the test.

Notre Dame’s starting tackle Charles Jagusah is out for the rest of the year: What now for the Irish?

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