Al Washington says Jason Onye has 'taken off' in production

Notre Dame football has consistently been a program throughout the years known for exceptional play on their defensive line. And that has not changed with Marcus Freeman taking over the program last season. During the Fighting Irish spring program, lineman Jason Onye has definitely caught the eye of his coaches, most notably Al Washington. Following Notre Dame’s spring game, Washington, who is the team’s defensive line coach, praised Onye for his production in the spring and highlighted how his game has “taken off.”

“A year ago, where he was to now, he’s taken off. And really credited him because I think there was a point where he really could have gone the other way. He could have pulled away, (or) made excuses,” said Washington.

“I remember like it was yesterday; it was in the fall. He had a moment. He wasn’t happy (that) he wasn’t playing. And you know, we get those conversations. But he made a decision, and to his credit, he stuck to it, and now he’s kind of breaking through. He still has a lot to work on; he’d be the first to tell you. But the thing about Jason that’s redeeming is he loves football. That is what makes him special on top of the talent; his love helped him endure all those tough moments.”

The soon-to-be sophomore from North Providence, RI, saw action in just one game last season. That was a 44-0 route of Boston College towards the end of this season. Onye recorded just two tackles in the game, both of them assisted tackles.

This season Onye is expected to play a much bigger role in the fighting Irish’s defensive game plan. As Washington put it, the team is counting on him to give his best every time he touches the field.

“So we’re counting on him to be at his best. And to his credit, he’s working towards it. He’s got to keep working, though. Our conversations are really focused on the things where he’s got to improve, and I think he likes that… a very bright kid too. He’s very sharp as a razor. So anytime he’s in a situation, you have to trust as a coach; he can solve that problem. I can’t say enough good things about Jason, and I’m proud of him.”

Roster seating and rotations are likely not completely set for Notre Dame just yet. There is still a way to go until the start of the 2023 season when the Fighting Irish will kick off with a week-zero matchup against Navy. By that time, Washington will have a plan together to get the best out of Onye and the rest of his defensive line next season.