BREAKING NEWS: Chris Ash Named New Defensive Coordinator for Notre Dame Football
South Bend, IN – April 15, 2025
The University of Notre Dame has officially announced the hiring of veteran coach Chris Ash as its new defensive coordinator, stepping in to fill the role vacated by Al Golden, who recently departed to join the NFL’s Cincinnati Bengals. The move marks a significant moment in the evolution of Notre Dame’s football program, as Ash brings a deep and diverse coaching background to South Bend.
Chris Ash, 51, is no stranger to high-level football. He’s held key defensive roles at some of the most respected programs in the country, including Ohio State, Wisconsin, Arkansas, and Texas. He also served as the head coach at Rutgers University from 2016 to 2019. In addition to his collegiate experience, Ash brings valuable NFL insight after coaching with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Las Vegas Raiders.
The hiring comes as Notre Dame seeks to maintain — and elevate — the high defensive standards set in recent seasons. Al Golden, who led the Fighting Irish defense with discipline and toughness, was widely credited for solidifying the team’s identity on that side of the ball. His move to the NFL left big shoes to fill, and Ash’s name quickly rose to the top of the candidate list.
“Chris is a dynamic coach with a sharp defensive mind,” said Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman in a statement. “His experience across the college and professional levels is going to be an incredible asset to our program. More than that, he’s a teacher, a motivator, and a leader who will make an immediate impact on our team.”
Ash inherits a defense that has been a cornerstone of Notre Dame’s success in recent years. With a blend of veteran talent and promising underclassmen, the unit has been ranked among the top in the nation for both scoring and yards allowed. His ability to adapt schemes and utilize versatile defensive strategies is expected to mesh well with the current roster.
“This opportunity is truly special,” Ash said during his introductory press conference. “Notre Dame is one of the most iconic programs in college football. I’m honored to be here and excited to get to work with this staff and group of players. Our goal is simple: be relentless, be smart, and play championship-level defense.”
The news of Ash’s hiring has been met with enthusiasm from fans and analysts alike. Many pointed to his success as co-defensive coordinator of the 2014 Ohio State Buckeyes, where he helped lead the team to a national championship. His defenses have consistently ranked high in turnovers, third-down stops, and red zone efficiency.
Notre Dame now turns its focus to spring development and summer preparation, as Ash begins to install his system and evaluate personnel. With expectations high heading into the 2025 season, all eyes will be on how Ash’s leadership influences the Fighting Irish on the field.
This hire is more than a replacement — it’s a statement of intent. Notre Dame is committed to competing at the highest level, and with Chris Ash calling the shots on defense, they’re ready to do just that.