With Notre Dame deciding to opt out of the 2025 Pop Tarts Bowl, we know we've seen the last of Jeremiyah Love, Jadarian Price and others. However, is there a chance that veteran defensive tackle Jason Onye might be back in 2026?
Notre Dame AD turns head after meeting with Power Conference Commissioner
Before Friday, no one even thought it'd be a possibility that he'd return to South Bend, as this was Onye's first season at the college level. However, as it turns out, Notre Dame has put in an official request for the defensive lineman to get a sixth year of eligibility. While no final decision is expected in the near future, could some good news come in soon either this winter or spring?
Per a team spokesperson, Notre Dame defensive tackle Jason Onye has submitted a waiver for a sixth year of eligibility. The Irish "don't expect an answer soon."
— Jack Soble (@jacksoble56) December 19, 2025
Onye had a tremendous second half of 2025, totaling 14 QB pressures in Games 7-12 after just 2 in Games 1-6. pic.twitter.com/QTrLSNEeRa
Notre Dame DT Jason Onye is pushing for a sixth season of eligibility
We don't have to tell you that this is a promising update for the Irish. As noted by beat writer Jack Soble, Onye really came on strong during the second part of the campaign for Freeman. While he's not known as a superstar player by any means, he won over plenty of Notre Dame fans due to his work ethic and ability to overcome adversity.
A big-bodied DT from Rhode Island, Onye originally signed with the Irish as a member of the 2021 class. In 2024, Onye left the program in the middle of the season, citing mental health reasons for why he decided to step away from the game he loves so much.
However, he returned to the Fighting Irish ahead of the 2025 season and he indeed looked strong during the second half of the year. Throughout the campaign, he posted 26 total tackles and 1.5 sacks. For his career, he has 52 total tackles and 3.5 sacks to his name.
Last year, things were rough for the upperclassman and temporarily saying goodbye to his teammates was hard. However, he's back and playing at a high level, something Freeman is hoping can translate to the '26 season. At this point, it's unclear if Onye and Notre Dame are feeling optimistic about a potential return, but it would no question be massive if he's given one more season to make plays for the program.