Irish Legends: Where are they now? Rick Mirer

Few quarterbacks in Notre Dame history carried as much expectation or delivered as many memorable moments as former Quarterback Rick Mirer.


From leading the Fighting Irish under legendary head coach Lou Holtz to becoming the No. 2 overall pick in the 1993 NFL Draft, Mirer's football journey is one of perseverance, leadership, and lifelong dedication to Notre Dame.


Today, decades after taking his final snap in South Bend, Mirer remains deeply connected to the university that helped shape him.


The Face of the IrishAfter arriving at Notre Dame from Goshen, Indiana, Mirer quickly established himself as one of the nation's premier quarterbacks.


During his career from 1989 to 1992, he helped lead the Irish to a 29-7-1 record as a starter, three bowl victories, and countless signature wins. By the time he graduated, Mirer ranked among Notre Dame's all-time leaders in passing yards, total offense, completions, and touchdowns.


Perhaps no moment defined his career more than the dramatic comeback victory over Penn State in 1992. Facing one final opportunity, Mirer found running back Reggie Brooks in the corner of the end zone for the game-winning two-point conversion, creating one of the most iconic plays in Fighting Irish history.


His performance during the 1992 season earned him national recognition and cemented his place among Notre Dame's greatest quarterbacks.
NFL JourneyMirer's college success made him one of the most coveted prospects in football.


The Seattle Seahawks selected him with the second overall pick in the 1993 NFL Draft, making him one of the highest drafted players in Notre Dame history. As a rookie, he immediately made an impact, setting NFL rookie records for passing attempts, completions, and passing yards while earning UPI Rookie of the Year honors.


Over the next 12 seasons, Mirer played for seven NFL organizations, including Seattle, Chicago, Green Bay, the New York Jets, San Francisco, Oakland, and Detroit. While his career didn't unfold exactly as many expected after such a promising rookie season, he remained in the league for more than a decade—a testament to his professionalism and football intelligence.
Life After FootballRetirement didn't slow Mirer down.


He and his family settled in Southern California, where he became involved in business ventures while remaining active in youth sports. He has coached youth football, participated in entrepreneurial projects, and has been involved in the wine industry through Mirror Wine Company. A portion of the proceeds has supported the Mirer Family Foundation, which focuses on charitable giving and educational opportunities.


Perhaps most importantly to Notre Dame fans, Mirer has never lost his connection to the university.


He and his wife established an endowment to help provide financial assistance for Notre Dame students, and he continues to return to campus for alumni events and to support Fighting Irish athletics.
A Family TraditionThe Mirer name continues to be associated with football.


His son, Charlie Mirer, followed in his father's footsteps as a collegiate quarterback, creating a full circle moment when he appeared against Notre Dame while playing for Stanford. The family has also maintained strong ties to Notre Dame through athletics and alumni involvement.
Why Irish Fans Still Remember HimRick Mirer may not have won the Heisman Trophy, but his impact on Notre Dame football remains undeniable.


He helped bridge one of the most successful eras in Fighting Irish history, delivered unforgettable victories, and represented the program with class both on and off the field.


For many fans who grew up watching Lou Holtz patrol the sidelines, Mirer remains one of the defining quarterbacks of that era.


His legacy isn't measured only by wins, statistics, or NFL draft position.


It's measured by the leadership he displayed in South Bend, the pride he still carries for Notre Dame, and the lasting example he has set long after his playing days came to an end.


Some legends never really leave Notre Dame.
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Rick Mirer is one of them.