CJ Carr’s Football Journey and His Path at Notre Dame

Tammi Carr remembers her son CJ watching his friends play tackle football, longing to join in. The Carr family had a rule: CJ had to wait until seventh grade for tackle football. Until then, he played flag football, coached by his dad and other fathers. His friends switched to tackle in sixth grade, and CJ pleaded with his parents to play. Yet, they made him wait. Instead, he helped at games, glaring at his parents, until he finally joined tackle football the next year.

When CJ first played with pads, he was hooked. “I want to go to practice every day and watch film,” he said. With football in his bloodline — the grandson of College Football Hall of Famers — CJ’s love for the game seemed inevitable. He grew up with football, attending games in box seats and watching TV replays.

I’m super grateful to be here and be the starting quarterback at Notre Dame.

His football journey led him to Notre Dame, despite his Michigan heritage. His grandfathers were Michigan legends. His dad, Jason, was a Michigan quarterback. Yet, CJ chose Notre Dame, 175 miles away, and is now the starter striving to make his mark. In 2025, his debut as a starter saw him throw for 2,741 yards and 24 touchdowns. Notre Dame ranked No. 10, missing the College Football Playoff. Now, entering the 2026 season with high expectations, CJ is considered a top quarterback and Heisman contender.

Mental Toughness and Growth

CJ’s mental toughness defines his journey. As a child, he was intensely competitive, struggling with emotions. His dad, Jason, taught him mental strength: “It’s developing a mindset where you will not make or accept an excuse for your lack of success.” This shaped CJ, who eventually recited the phrase by heart.

His father played a significant role, instilling in him the importance of preparation. Jason, a former player and coach, introduced CJ to film study early on, teaching him lessons he’d learned as a player.

A Unique Path

Despite growing up near Ann Arbor, Michigan, CJ chose a different path. Witnessing his family’s history of success at Michigan, he wanted his own identity. Notre Dame, led by coach Marcus Freeman, felt right. Visiting other schools confirmed his decision.

CJ’s competitiveness continues at Notre Dame. Coach Marcus Freeman praises CJ’s preparation and confidence. Despite the pressures, CJ remains grounded, seeing himself “as one of the guys.” His experiences, including the tragedy of losing his younger brother Chad, have shaped his resilience, giving perspective on what truly matters.

Leadership at Notre Dame

CJ’s leadership sets him apart. He bonded with teammates during off-season activities and team travels. With a focus on creating a legacy at Notre Dame, his dedication remains unwavering. The 2026 season, starting against Wisconsin at Lambeau Field, is set to test CJ like never before. Expectations at Notre Dame are high, but CJ embraces the challenge, determined to leave no doubt this season.