Chris Tyree Overflowing with Confidence & Joins Elite Notre Dame Company

The transition to receiver could have been taken as a negative, but Chris Tyree has embraced it. 

In fact, the Virginia native has taken it and run with it as he recorded three catches for 62 yards and then returned a punt 82 yards for a touchdown in Notre Dame’s 58-7 win over Pitt on Saturday. 

Tyree has not only embraced the new challenge, but he’s found comfort nine games into the 2023 season. Saturday was a prime example of that comfort and it reminded him of playing football in his early days. 

“Growing up playing football, that’s what I did anyway,” Tyree stated. “They would just give me the ball and tell me to go run. It’s as simple as that. It’s something I really take pride in. I want to be able to add value to the team as much as I can whether it’s catching the ball, running it, or returning it. I’m going to do it to the best of my ability, so I’m trying to show it each and every play.” 

The punt return for a touchdown was one of the best of the year as Tyree broke several tackles before getting loose in the open field. 

It’s also Tyree’s first year as a returner and there is also comfort in his decision making which has led to him becoming a playmaker. 

“I think that moment was a progression of the season from me being a rookie returner out there and getting really comfortable throughout the season,” explained Tyree. “Finally, having the chance to actually get a return and take advantage of it. We started off the game wanting to set the tone on punt return. My job back there is to make that happen, so that’s what I tried to do.” 

Now, it hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows this season as Tyree dropped a tough pass at Louisville, which would have likely been a touchdown. 

The play might have been a turning point for Tyree’s season, but also career as Marcus Freeman challenged him to put in more work following the game. 

“Hard work is rewarded and you don't know when that reward is gonna come,” Freeman stated. “That's what I love when you see a young man like Chris Tyree who works tirelessly. Everybody, myself included, was challenged after he dropped the ball versus Louisville.

“He continues to work. The last two weeks he's had opportunities to make big plays down the field and he did it. So that's what I love about that kid. He's unselfish and works tirelessly at his craft. The rewards are seen on Saturdays.” 

Some players could have sulked but lost their way, but Tyree completely embraced Freeman’s challenge and it’s propelled him into Saturday’s performance against Pitt. 

“That transition from Louisville through USC and the bye week, I think it’s a really good testament to the wide receiver room as a whole, especially with Coach (Chansi) Stuckey being in there supporting us each day,” said Tyree. “He’s constantly telling us he has our back and we have no choice but to have his out on the field.” 

Tyree also admits he has gained confidence in his game and it’s due to the work during the week. Freeman vowed to enhance the competition level when he took the job and Tyree has benefitted from the increased intensity on the practice fields. 

“It’s just being able to put that preparation in the work and finally getting to show it on Saturdays,” Tyree explained. “We practice hard every day if you guys don’t know. You guys have probably heard from other players as well, but I think it’s adjusting to the new role and I’m definitely getting really confident in where I’m at right now.” 

Tyree has now scored touchdowns in his career on punt return, kickoff return, rushing and receiving, which puts him in elite company as he joins Julius Jones, Tim Brown and Rocket Ismail. 

“That’s great company and a lot of legendary names right there,” smiled Tyree. “I’m blessed to be in the position I’m in and I have a great coaching staff that trusts me with all of those roles and positions. I have no choice but to take advantage.” 

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