Meet Joshua Burnham: IU Football's Newest Defensive End Transfer from Notre Dame

IU football has secured a commitment from Joshua Burnham, a defensive end transfer from Notre Dame. Burnham, a 6-foot-4, 260-pound junior from Traverse City, Michigan, brings one season of eligibility to the Hoosiers. During his time at Notre Dame, Burnham played in 40 games, starting 15 of them. He recorded 65 tackles, including 17 for a loss, along with six sacks, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. Burnham also contributed on special teams for the Fighting Irish. Highly recruited out of high school, he was rated as a four-star prospect by 247Sports, Rivals, and ESPN. In the 2024 CFP victory over Indiana, Burnham started and made two tackles with a quarterback hurry.
In his junior year at Notre Dame in 2025, Burnham played in all 12 games, starting four of them. He recorded 16 tackles, including six for loss, and three sacks. Notable performances included two sacks against Pitt and a sack with three solo tackles against Boston College. As a sophomore in 2024, Burnham played in 14 games, starting ten of them. He tallied 30 total tackles, 16 solo tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, three quarterback hurries, and a pass breakup. Burnham also forced a fumble and had two tackles for loss in the National Championship game. In his freshman year in 2023, Burnham played in all 13 games, starting one on the defensive line. He recorded 18 tackles, including four for loss with a sack, and earned two quarterback hurries.
Joshua Burnham's addition to the IU football team brings experience and talent to the defensive line. His track record at Notre Dame showcases his ability to make plays and disrupt opposing offenses. With one season of eligibility left, Burnham has the opportunity to make a significant impact for the Hoosiers in the upcoming season. Welcome to IU, Joshua Burnham!