SAD NEWS: Notre Dame Confirms Departure of Standout QB Steve Angeli, Who Signs with Rival
In a deeply emotional and widely discussed move, Notre Dame has officially confirmed the exit of veteran quarterback Steve Angeli, who has opted to continue his college career elsewhere. The announcement ends his time with the Fighting Irish, marking the close of a chapter that Angeli described as playing with a “heavy heart.” Angeli will now transfer to Syracuse University to pursue his final year of eligibility under a fresh program.
Angeli, originally a three-star recruit out of Bergen Catholic High School in New Jersey, arrived in South Bend in 2022. Over three seasons with the Irish, he remained a constant presence, despite being involved in intense quarterback competitions each spring against CJ Carr and Kenny Minchey. Though rarely established as the clear starter, Angeli demonstrated professionalism, resilience, and leadership—earning admiration from coaches, teammates, and fans alike.
Despite Notre Dame’s national prominence and his personal connections to the program, Angeli ultimately concluded that his best opportunity lay elsewhere. Following the annual Blue-Gold spring game and well into Notre Dame’s deep QB competition, he chose to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal—a decision he described with heartfelt regret but also firm conviction. The move became official in April 2025, and almost immediately, Syracuse emerged as his new destination. Sources confirmed that he has committed to the Orange, a decision that will allow him to reset his career trajectory and chase a starting role in 2025.
Throughout his career at Notre Dame, Angeli threw just 80 passes, completing 72.5% of them for 772 yards, 10 touchdowns, and only one interception. While he rarely lit up the box score, most notably he shone during the Orange Bowl, stepping in for an injured Riley Leonard to lead a crucial 6-of-7, 44-yard drive. His composure under pressure helped spark a comeback over Penn State and reinforced his reputation as a reliable performer when called upon.
Reflecting on the transition, head coach Marcus Freeman talked candidly about Angeli’s departure. Freeman expressed respect and appreciation, labeling Angeli a “huge fan” and acknowledging that the decision, though painful, was ultimately the right one for the player. “Steve made the decision to transfer where there was probably a better opportunity for him to be the starter in the fall. There was a more clear picture,” Freeman said. He added that there are no hard feelings and affirmed the organization’s support for Angeli’s future path.
As for Syracuse, Angeli’s arrival represents a potentially pivotal upgrade at quarterback. With two starts of eligibility remaining, Angeli brings experience, leadership, and confidence to a program that has previously welcomed major transfers like Kyle McCord. Even though Syracuse has already named Rickie Collins as its presumptive starter, sources suggest Angeli will compete fiercely in preseason and during fall camp for meaningful playing time.
Fans reacted with a mix of disappointment and gratitude. Many praised Angeli’s steady professionalism and his ability to perform under pressure—even when not the starter. Social media was filled with messages of respect and best wishes, particularly referencing his role in Notre Dame’s Orange Bowl run. Former teammates and fans alike called him a class act and a stabilizing presence in an increasingly complex quarterback room.
Looking ahead, Notre Dame’s QB picture is clearer. With Riley Leonard no longer on the roster, and Angeli departing, the starting role is expected to go to either CJ Carr or freshman standout Kenny Minchey, both of whom remain committed to South Bend and will continue to vie for the position into fall practice.
Meanwhile, Steve Angeli will begin a new journey with the Syracuse Orange, aiming to lead an offense in a highly competitive ACC schedule that includes matchups against future rivals—including his former team. For Angeli, it’s a fresh opportunity; for Notre Dame, it closes yet another chapter in its evolving quarterback saga.
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