Marcus Freeman calls Jarrett Patterson an 'ironman'

Senior Day is coming up for Notre Dame this Saturday against Boston College at home, and Irish head coach Marcus Freeman praised All-American offensive lineman Jarrett Patterson for his resiliency throughout his career and the legacy he’s leaving behind in South Bend.

“J-Patt, the best way to describe him is the ultimate ironman. Just a guy who has battled injuries, multiple injuries, even before I got here. He has continued to sacrifice his body, continued to work and plays the game at such a high level,” Freeman said Thursday. “To this day he’s not 100 percent. He has been injured all season. He just goes out there, he practices and he plays.

“He could easily be the guy who says, ‘You know, I’m not going to play, I’m going to wait until the NFL and save my body.’ He doesn’t. He sacrifices his body for this university and this football program. I’m forever indebted to Jarrett Patterson. He’s a great captain, a great leader for our program.”

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Patterson has missed time this season thanks to a foot sprain suffered during the tail end of fall training camp, but hasn’t had that stop him from playing during his final season with the Irish. He’s set to start this weekend, and Freeman called him the ultimate competitor for his toughness.

The star offensive lineman made headlines after Notre Dame’s early season loss to Marshall after he slammed his helmet on the turf during a meltdown after the loss. He was the first Irish player to head to the tunnel.

“The frustration he showed after Marshall is expected of any competitor who loses a game you don’t think you should lose. He’s a great leader,” Freeman said. “He was emotional after a tough loss. He’s also a guy who can raise the play of others and raise the mentality of others. That’s important. That’s what leaders do. Leaders make other people better.”

Saturday might mark the final time that Patterson plays football at Notre Dame Stadium, but his collegiate career isn’t over just yet. The No. 18 Irish still travel to No. 7 USC during the final week of the season, not to mention they’re already bowl eligible at 7-3.

Kickoff between the Irish and Eagles is set for 2:30 p.m. ET Saturday afternoon live on NBC and Peacock.