Indiana football bolstered its offensive line Thursday with the addition of former Notre Dame interior offensive lineman Pat Coogan, who announced his commitment to the Hoosiers via social media. The 6-foot-5, 305-pound redshirt junior, a Chicago native, brings Power Five experience and depth to an Indiana program aiming to rebuild under head coach Curt Cignetti.
Coogan, a former three-star recruit out of Brother Rice High School (Ill.), appeared in 15 games over three seasons with the Fighting Irish, primarily as a reserve guard and center. Though he didn’t secure a full-time starting role at Notre Dame, his versatility and familiarity with high-stakes environments—having practiced alongside one of the nation’s top offensive line units—made him a sought-after transfer. ESPN’s Pete Thamel noted Coogan’s “technical polish and adaptability” as key traits that attracted Indiana’s staff.
“I’m excited to join a program that believes in my potential and has a clear vision for the future,” Coogan said in a statement shared on Twitter. “Coach Cignetti and [offensive line] coach Bob Bostad have a track record of developing linemen, and I’m ready to compete.”
Indiana’s offensive line, which allowed 29 sacks in 2023 (ranking 98th nationally), is undergoing a transformation this offseason. Coogan’s arrival adds immediate competition, with analysts projecting him as a potential starter at guard. Fox Sports’ Bryan Fischer highlighted the move as a “low-risk, high-reward pickup” for a Hoosiers team transitioning to the Big Ten’s new-look offensive schemes.
Cignetti, hired in November after a successful stint at James Madison, has emphasized physicality in the trenches. “Pat’s a smart, tough player who understands what it takes to win,” Cignetti told NBC Sports. “He’ll be a cornerstone for our culture here.”
Coogan’s commitment follows Indiana’s aggressive transfer portal approach, which includes 15 incoming players. The Hoosiers open their 2024 season August 31 against FIU, with Coogan expected to play a pivotal role in revitalizing a rushing attack that averaged just 3.8 yards per carry last fall.
For Notre Dame, Coogan’s departure underscores the competitive depth of Marcus Freeman’s roster, while Indiana gains a seasoned lineman eager to prove himself as a full-time starter in the Big Ten.
