2024-NFL-Draft-Team-Preview-Notre-Dame-Fighting-Irish

2024 NFL Draft Team Preview: Notre Dame Fighting Irish

In the past three NFL Draft cycles, Notre Dame has had 19 players drafted, 11 of which have gone on the first two days. They’ve consistently produced an NFL level of talent, and this class is no different.

After a slow start to last season, the Fighting Irish and their experienced players on both sides of the ball will carry them to a successful season. Ranked as the 13th overall team in the AP Top-25 poll heading into the season and with a group of talented NFL Draft prospects, Notre Dame has the potential to make a ton of noise this season.

Here’s a look at the top prospects for the 2024 NFL Draft.

5. #27 LB JD Bertrand

Bertrand possesses a solid build with adequate height and muscle mass. His physical style is evident in effective block shedding and tackling. He excels in run defense, quickly diagnosing plays and stopping ball carriers by quickly getting off blocks and making heavy hits. In coverage, he’s comfortable in zones, understands routes, and uses his speed to contest throws.

While he’s not an elite linebacker, he compensates with instincts and is a capable blitzer, displaying burst and timing. Bertrand’s high football IQ is seen in reading plays and quick reactions. His leadership shows in on-field communication and adjustments in coverage and alignment. He can grow his 2024 NFL Draft stock this season by refining coverage, especially man-to-man, and improving pass-rushing techniques. If he can show development and improvement throughout the season, he will certainly be a coveted linebacker in the draft.

JD Bertrand: football player. #NotreDame pic.twitter.com/YjoWbQ5a06
— Tyler Horka (@tbhorka) November 7, 2022

4. #1 EDGE Javontae Jean-Baptiste

Jean-Baptiste boasts an impressive physical profile with good height and a versatile build. He exhibits strong pass-rushing skills, including a quick first step and effective hand techniques to disengage from blocks. His agility and discipline in setting the edge contribute to his effectiveness in run defense. His athleticism shines through pursuit and effort, allowing him to impact plays from different areas. Jean-Baptiste’s football IQ and anticipation provide an advantage, enabling him to read offensive schemes and disrupt plays.

While his foundation is solid, further development of his pass-rushing techniques and understanding of complex offenses could enhance his performance. He has the potential to be a dynamic force in both pass rush and run defense, with continued growth and refinement, making him an intriguing option in the upcoming NFL Draft.

3. #24 LB Jack Kiser

Kiser has the build and athleticism suitable for a WILL backer. He demonstrates physicality in shedding blocks and tackling effectively, compensating for any speed limitations with quick reactions and instincts. He excels in run defense, diagnosing plays swiftly and positioning himself for tackles near the line of scrimmage. In coverage, he’s competent in zone, reading routes, and disrupting passing lanes. His football IQ is evident in recognizing plays and making pre-snap adjustments.

Kiser’s versatility extends to potential special teams’ contributions, showcasing his team-oriented attitude. While he’s well-rounded, he could refine man-to-man coverage and improve anticipation. His physicality, tackling, and football IQ make him an asset to Notre Dame’s defense, and further development in coverage could elevate his impact in the NFL.

2. #54 RT Blake Fisher

Fisher maintains an imposing physical presence with exceptional height, a strong frame, and evident athleticism. His advanced pass-blocking techniques feature quick reactions, a solid base, and effective hand placement. In run blocking, he’s aggressive and skilled at engaging defenders, showcasing leg drive and the ability to finish blocks downfield. Fisher’s athleticism allows him to execute pulls and reach blocks, contributing to his versatility.

Despite his raw talent, he displays commendable technique in both pass protection and run blocking, but further development is needed for sustained dominance. He shows football IQ by recognizing defensive strategies and adapting his positioning. While Fisher has a high ceiling, continued maturation in maintaining balance, refining techniques, and diversifying his blocking moves will be crucial. His combination of size, athleticism, and technical prowess positions him as a promising offensive tackle prospect with the potential to excel in various aspects at the NFL level.

joe alt garners most of the attention in this OL room, but don’t sleep on #notredame RT blake fisher (#54).

long & lean frame at 6’6 310. fluid athlete w/ natural knee bend & quick feet. violent striker w/ his punch in pass pro. riser. pic.twitter.com/svyvJaXN38
— Kyron Samuels (@kyronsamuels) August 23, 2023

1. #76 LT Joe Alt

Alt has promising physical attributes with good height and a well-built frame. He has potential for further development in terms of strength, making him suitable for the demands of a left tackle. In pass blocking, Alt demonstrates fundamental techniques, showcasing the ability to anchor against rushers and utilize his length effectively. Since past seasons, he’s significantly improved his footwork and hand placement, even flashing signs of greatness against speed rushers and stunts. He shows star potential in run blocking by engaging defenders and generating movement, although perfecting his technique and leverage could enhance his consistency and make him an even better prospect than he already is.

Alt’s athleticism is advantageous, helping him execute reach and combo blocks. While he’s one of the best tackle prospects in the NFL Draft, there are areas for growth. Alt has developed into one of the best offensive tackle prospects in college football. With another year under his belt at left tackle, he will make the argument for being the first tackle to be selected in the NFL Draft.

Honorable Mention

#10 QB Sam Hartman
# RB Ausric Estime
#2 WR Chris Tyree
#52 iOL Zeke Correll
#99 iDL Rylie Mills
#5 CB Cam Hart

Notre Dame Fighting Irish 2023 Schedule

Prediction: 9-3

DATE	OPPONENT
Sat, Aug 26	vsNavy *
Sat, Sep 2	vsTennessee State
Sat, Sep 9	@NC State
Sat, Sep 16	vsCentral Michigan
Sat, Sep 23	vs3 Ohio State
Sat, Sep 30	@Duke
Sat, Oct 7	@Louisville
Sat, Oct 14	vs6 USC
Sat, Oct 28	vsPittsburgh
Sat, Nov 4	@9 Clemson
Sat, Nov 18	vsWake Forest
Sat, Nov 25	@Stanford