Jamie Uyeyama on Mike Mickens Leaving Notre Dame, Potential DB Coach Candidates, and the Ceiling for the Defense in 2026

Notre Dame is facing major change on the defensive side of the ball as Mike Mickens leaves for the NFL, and the ripple effects could shape the program’s future. In this episode of Locked On Irish, host Tyler Wojciak is joined by Jamie Uyeyama of Irish Sports Daily to break down what Mickens’ departure means, how difficult he’ll be to replace, and what Notre Dame should be looking for in its next defensive backs coach. The conversation also dives into the hiring of new defensive line coach Charlie Partridge, why he’s so highly regarded across college football, and how his arrival could elevate Notre Dame’s defense in 2026. Jamie shares insight on potential coaching candidates, schematic impact, and the overall ceiling of this defense as the Irish gear up for another national title push.