As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Notre Dame players are once again under the spotlight, with several athletes from the Fighting Irish expected to make the leap to professional football. Over the years, Notre Dame has been a consistent producer of NFL talent, and this year is no different. With a roster full of exceptional prospects, the question on many minds is where these players will be selected and in which round they will hear their names called. As Notre Dame players prepare for the draft, each prospect’s journey to the NFL reflects years of hard work, dedication, and determination to prove themselves worthy of a professional career.
One of the most anticipated prospects is linebacker Jack Kiser. Kiser’s journey from a standout player in high school to a key figure at Notre Dame has been well-documented, with his skill set and leadership on display throughout his college career. His versatility as a linebacker and special teams ace makes him an intriguing prospect. While Kiser has been a consistent playmaker for the Fighting Irish, his draft prospects largely depend on his performance during the pre-draft process. With his strong showing at the Senior Bowl and an impressive NFL Combine, Kiser has positioned himself as a likely second to third-round pick. His ability to play multiple roles at a high level has caught the attention of NFL scouts, and with his physical tools and football IQ, there is little doubt that Kiser will be selected in the first three rounds of the draft.
Another prominent name to watch is offensive tackle Joe Alt. Alt’s size, athleticism, and ability to protect the quarterback have made him one of the most highly regarded offensive linemen in the 2025 draft class. A starter for multiple years at Notre Dame, Alt has been a key piece of their offensive line, known for his ability to dominate in both the run and pass game. His strength and technique have made him a top-tier prospect, and many believe he could be selected in the first round. Alt’s potential to anchor an NFL offensive line and protect a quarterback makes him a valuable commodity. Given his pedigree and talent, Alt’s name could be called in the first 15 to 20 picks, solidifying his status as one of the top offensive tackles in the draft.
Quarterback Sam Hartman, a transfer from Wake Forest, is another name generating significant buzz. Hartman’s decision to come to Notre Dame was seen as a pivotal move for both the Fighting Irish and his professional prospects. Known for his accuracy, leadership, and ability to make plays in clutch situations, Hartman has all the tools necessary to succeed at the next level. However, with the quarterback position being so competitive in the draft, Hartman’s selection will depend on how NFL teams evaluate his potential. While he may not be considered among the elite quarterback prospects like some of his peers, Hartman’s experience and skills place him in a position to be selected in the second or third round. His ability to lead a team and perform well in high-pressure situations will make him a valuable asset to NFL teams looking for a quarterback who can step in and contribute early in his career.
Tight end Mitchell Evans is another player to keep an eye on as the draft approaches. Evans has been a consistent target for Notre Dame’s offense, known for his ability to block effectively and make plays in the passing game. His size and physicality make him a potential asset for any team looking for a versatile tight end who can contribute in multiple facets of the game. Evans’ draft stock is likely to depend on his performance in the postseason, particularly during the NFL Combine and pro days. Given his skills and overall potential, Evans could be selected in the fourth or fifth round, depending on how teams evaluate his ability to contribute early in his career.
The defensive line is another area where Notre Dame has talent to offer. Players like defensive end Riley Mills and defensive tackle Howard Cross have been key contributors for the Fighting Irish. Mills, known for his pass-rushing ability, has the size and athleticism that NFL teams covet. His performance in the Senior Bowl and his physical attributes suggest he has the potential to be selected in the third or fourth round. Cross, on the other hand, is more of a traditional nose tackle, known for his ability to clog up running lanes and disrupt the opposing offense. Cross’s value in the draft will depend on how NFL teams view his ability to fit into their defensive schemes, but he could be a late-round pick or potentially go undrafted, depending on how his draft process plays out.
Another defensive player to watch is cornerback Benjamin Morrison, who has been one of the most consistent players in Notre Dame’s secondary. Morrison’s ability to cover top receivers and make plays on the ball has made him a key player for the Fighting Irish. His speed, agility, and overall coverage skills make him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams looking for a cornerback who can contribute right away. Morrison’s stock has risen throughout the season, and depending on his performance during pre-draft evaluations, he could be selected in the second or third round. His physicality and ability to lock down wide receivers make him a valuable asset for teams in need of a cornerback who can play in a variety of defensive schemes.
Linebacker JD Bertrand has also garnered attention throughout the season for his consistency and leadership. Known for his ability to read the game and make plays in crucial moments, Bertrand’s draft prospects will largely depend on his performance during the draft process. While not considered one of the top linebacker prospects in the draft, Bertrand’s football IQ and ability to contribute on special teams could make him a viable late-round selection. His leadership and dedication to the game will also be valued by teams looking for a player who can provide depth and stability to their linebacker corps.
While several Notre Dame players are expected to be selected in the first few rounds of the draft, there are always surprises and players who may exceed expectations. Notre Dame has a long history of producing NFL talent, and this year’s class is no different. With a combination of experienced veterans, rising stars, and under-the-radar prospects, Notre Dame’s 2025 draft class has the potential to make an impact at the next level.
Ultimately, where Notre Dame players are selected in the NFL Draft will depend on a variety of factors, including team needs, draft evaluations, and individual performances in pre-draft workouts and interviews. However, one thing is certain: Notre Dame players will continue to make their mark on the NFL, just as they have done for decades. Whether it’s a first-round selection like Joe Alt or a late-round pick like JD Bertrand, these players have the potential to carve out successful careers in the NFL and continue the legacy of Notre Dame football in the professional ranks. As the draft draws near, the excitement around these prospects will only continue to build, and for Notre Dame fans, there’s a lot to look forward to as their players take the next step in their football careers.