Leonard Moore injury update: Will Notre Dame football's star CB play vs. Boise State?

The Notre Dame football secondary is tracking toward getting a big boost for Saturday’s game against Boise State.

On Thursday, Notre Dame’s communications staff upgraded sophomore cornerback Leonard Moore’s injury status to “probable.” Earlier in the week, Moore was listed as questionable with the ankle injury that sidelined him for the last two games. He has shown progress since then and is pushing to return to the lineup.

“He’s made a tremendous gain in terms of that high ankle sprain,” Irish coach Marcus Freeman told reporters. “I’m sure it’s a frustrating injury. I know from experience it takes a while to get to where you want to go.

“But we think he’s going to be able to help us this weekend. He’s been practicing more than he ever has since the injury. But no matter what, I’m sure he won’t be 100%. It just takes time to heal that thing.”

In addition to Moore, Notre Dame also upgraded redshirt junior defensive lineman Donovan Hinish’s status from questionable to probable. Hinish has been dealing with a shoulder injury. Redshirt sophomore linebacker Preston Zinter has been ruled out with a concussion.

Notre Dame was cautious about playing Moore against Arkansas

The 6-foot-2, 195-pound Moore — a preseason first-team All-American by at least eight different outlets — warmed up last Saturday against Arkansas. But according to ESPN, the Irish held him out over concerns about his ability to cut while running.

Moore injured his ankle in Week 2 against Texas A&M. Despite the setback, he played 68 of 71 defensive snaps and recorded two pass breakups and an interception. He was then sidelined for the following two games versus Purdue and Arkansas.

Freshman cornerback Mark Zackery IV started in Moore’s place. The Boilermakers targeted the 5-foot-11, 175-pounder eight times, resulting in six catches for 93 yards and one touchdown. Against Arkansas, Zackery responded well, allowing just one 8-yard catch on four targets.

Over the last few years, Notre Dame has had a strong run of first-year cornerbacks under defensive backs coach Mike Mickens. Moore has stood out as the best of the group, earning Freshman Defensive Player of the Year honors from the Football Writers Association of America.

If there are no setbacks, Moore is well-positioned to showcase his talents Saturday.

“Leonard at less than 100% will help our defense,” Freeman said. “So if he continues to progress as we get through this week, I see him helping us on Saturday.”