In the ever-evolving world of college football, where coaching staffs constantly shift and adapt, finding young, talented minds to fuel a program’s success is essential. For powerhouse programs like Notre Dame, maintaining a competitive edge isn’t just about recruiting top athletes—it’s also about attracting rising coaching talent. Head coach Marcus Freeman continues to prove his ability to do just that.
Notre Dame’s latest rising star is Jevaughn Codlin, a defensive analyst who joined the program earlier this year. Codlin has just been named to Our Coaching Network’s “30 Under 30” list, a prestigious recognition that highlights the top young coaching talents across the country. For a coach not yet 30, this honor serves as both a validation of his efforts and a signal of his bright future in the sport.
A Valuable Addition to the Notre Dame Staff
Codlin arrived in South Bend in February 2025, joining Freeman’s staff after serving as an assistant secondary coach at West Virginia University. Even before this national recognition, Codlin was regarded as a coach with exceptional promise. His work with defensive backs has consistently drawn praise, and his ability to connect with players and help them develop both on and off the field has set him apart from his peers.
At Notre Dame, Codlin has quickly integrated into the staff, bringing fresh energy and valuable experience to the defense. While his role as a defensive analyst keeps him behind the scenes, his influence is already being felt within the program. Known for his attention to detail and deep understanding of secondary play, Codlin has contributed significantly to Notre Dame’s defensive planning and player development.
Recognition on a National Scale
Being named to the “30 Under 30” list is a significant milestone. Each year, Our Coaching Network evaluates hundreds of young coaches across all levels of college football, selecting those who show not only promise but also a proven track record of performance and leadership. For Codlin, the honor is a testament to the hard work and dedication he has put into his coaching journey.
These are the kinds of coaches that fast-track through the ranks—many of the previous honorees have gone on to coordinator positions or even head coaching jobs. For Notre Dame, having a coach like Codlin on staff means more than just talent on the sidelines—it means being part of a program that continues to invest in the future.
Marcus Freeman’s Eye for Talent
Since taking over as Notre Dame’s head coach, Marcus Freeman has made a name for himself not only as a strong leader but also as someone who understands the value of building a coaching staff full of fresh perspectives and high ceilings. Bringing Codlin in from West Virginia is another example of Freeman’s ability to identify and recruit coaching talent with long-term potential.
Codlin’s presence at Notre Dame not only strengthens the current team but also adds to the long-term stability and innovation within the program’s defensive identity. As the Irish continue their push for national prominence, having rising minds like Codlin behind the scenes could be the key to unlocking the next level of success.
A Bright Future Ahead
There’s little doubt that Jevaughn Codlin is on the fast track in the coaching world. His inclusion on the “30 Under 30” list confirms what many already suspected: he’s a name to watch. For Notre Dame, his arrival is a big win—and for Codlin, this is likely just the beginning of an exciting journey.
With leaders like Marcus Freeman continuing to invest in young, dynamic coaches, the Fighting Irish look well-positioned not just for the season ahead, but for the long haul.