Pair of Notre Dame stars announce decisions for 2022 season
The future of two Notre Dame stars has been revealed. First, Notre Dame star defensive back Houston Griffth announced he was returning to the Fighting Irish. However, offensive lineman Quinn Carroll later revealed he was entering the transfer portal.
Griffith made his announcement quick and easy, tweeting a picture of himself with the caption, “2022. I’m back.” The defensive back had his most productive season yet, accumulating 38 tackles on the year. After gaining an extra year of eligibility due to the pandemic, Griffith is taking advantage of it.
On the other hand, Notre Dame will have to replace Carroll along their offensive line. The Fighting Irish tackle took to social media to announce his decision to transfer out of the program.
“In May of 2018, I made one of the most important decisions of my life when I chose to play football at the University of Notre Dame,” wrote Carroll. “I felt called by God to this amazing institution and historic football program, and hoped I would thrive here for 4+ years in both areas.
“In many ways, my experience has been as good or better than I hoped. I love this school, I love my teammates and friends, and I love my coaches. I have made lifelong friendships and I have learned countless lessons through the wins, the losses, my injury and recovery, battling to compete every day.
“With that being said, I am officially entering my name in the transfer portal. I’m excited to pursue a new journey on the field and continue my education and Master’s Degree. Notre Dame has prepared me for lifelong success, and I am forever grateful. Thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout my time in South Bend. Time for the next chapter.”
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It was an emotional decision for both men. While Houston Griffith is returning to a program he holds in high regard, Quinn Carroll is leaving it behind. Although he has immense love for Notre Dame, he’s following the path best for himself.
The decision of the two men comes after a heartbreaking loss in the Fiesta Bowl. Moreover, it was also the debut of new Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman. After the loss, Freeman spoke directly to Fighting Irish faithful.
“They deserve a winning product,” started Freeman. “They deserve a team that every week goes out there and wins. It’s our job to make sure we prepare and do everything necessary to give this team, the fan base, the university, and everybody else that deserves a really, really good product out on that field.
“So we’ll get back to work. That’s the only thing we know how to do. Win or lose, we’re going to get back to work and find ways to improve and make sure that we’re even more prepared and have a better opportunity to have success next time we’re on the field.”
The future of Notre Dame is undetermined. Still, the same future looks bright for the Fighting Irish.