Notre Dame offensive lineman has entered the NCAA Transfer Portal.
Pendleton quickly ascended the depth chart during fall camp, earning the starting left guard position over Rocco Spindler, which he held for the first seven games of the season. However, by game eight, Joe Rudolph made the decision to start Spindler and Billy Schrauth, who was returning from an ankle injury.
After losing his starting spot, Pendleton contributed on special teams and in a reserve role. He had a notable performance in the second half against Indiana when Spindler went down with an injury, helping the Irish rush for 193 yards.
Offensive line coach Mike Denbrock praised Pendleton’s toughness, which played a key role in his confidence to start the freshman in the challenging environment of Kyle Field during week one.
Denbrock highlighted Pendleton’s leadership, physicality, and the positive influence he brought to the offensive line. “He embodies the toughness and leadership you want in an offensive lineman,” said Denbrock.
Pendleton redshirted as a freshman, playing in games against Pitt and Stanford to preserve his eligibility.
During his recruitment, Pendleton didn’t release a top list of schools and was strongly recruited by Notre Dame’s Harry Hiestand. He committed early and remained firm in his decision, helping recruit fellow players like Sullivan Absher and Charles Jagusah for the class.
The 6-foot-4, 310-pound offensive lineman has a non-contact designation in the Transfer Portal, indicating he is not seeking contact from other schools. Tennessee is currently considered a potential destination for the North Carolina native.
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