Top options that Notre Dame should consider with the devastating injury news to starting OL Charles Jagusah

It is supposed to be the boring part of the offseason, but not for Notre Dame football apparently. The Fighting Irish were dealt some frustrating news recently, when it was announced over the weekend that starting right guard Charles Jagusah was injured in a ATV accident in Wyoming on July 5th. He has undergone surgery to repair a fractured left humerus. 

There is no timetable for Jagusah’s recovery, but there is a chance he could be sidelined between three and six months. Even if it is the best case scenario, Joe Rudolph and the Fighting staff will need to get options in place. There are a few options worth considering when the 2025 season begins. 

Here is what I could consider most. 

Sullivan Absher - RS So. 

The easiest answer to replace Jagusah would be sliding backup guard Sullivan Absher inside. At 6-8 and 328 pounds, Absher has spent time at offensive tackle and guard during his time in South Bend. While his pass protection issues have kicked him inside, his run blocking upside is still immense. Absher would be an exciting option to fill in. 

Guerby Lambert - RS Fr. 

Redshirt freshman Guerby Lambert is also coming back from an offseason injury himself, but is expected back for fall camp. The question is just how available he will be early on in the season. 

At 6-7 and 341 pounds, Lambert is an imposing presence up front. Offensive tackle is his natural position, so would Notre Dame opt to move Anthonie Knapp inside and let Lambert get a shot or tackle, or simply slide Lambert inside?

With Lambert coming back from injury, and potentially changing positions, this is probably the least likely decision that is made, I would, however, seriously consider if depending how Lambert recovers leading up until camp. 

Joe Otting - RS So. 

The wildcard decision I would have some interest in is whether Notre Dame would give Otting a moving over from center. With starting center Ashton Craig also coming back from injury, this is unlikely. Otting is still talented enough to at least give it a thought. At 6-4 and 312 pounds, Otting is certainly big enough to play offensive guard. He is also a very good athlete, who would fit well blocking on the move and in the screen game.