From Notre Dame to Arizona, Four Potential Draft Steals Cardinal Eyes Should Be On
The anticipation surrounding the College Football Playoff National Championship Game between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish is palpable. While the Buckeyes boast future top picks, the Fighting Irish present a roster filled with mid-to-late round prospects who could seamlessly transition into impactful roles at the professional level.
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As the Arizona Cardinals gear up for the 2025 NFL Draft with a limited pool of picks, closely monitoring the talent showcased by the Fighting Irish could unveil hidden gems in the later rounds.
Despite the absence of key players like Rylie Moss and Benjamin Morrison due to injuries, Notre Dame still flaunts a formidable defense led by a standout safety.
Offensively, the Fighting Irish lack significant firepower, with rising star running back Jeremiyah Love only in his sophomore year. In a team that prioritizes the ground game over passing, one player stands out amidst the rest.
Without further ado, here is a concise list of Notre Dame Fighting Irish prospects worth watching in tonight’s championship game:
Kris Mitchell, Wide Receiver
Mitchell’s impressive performance at FIU, where he surpassed 1,100 receiving yards in 2023, caught attention. Despite a less pass-heavy offense upon transferring to Notre Dame, Mitchell’s potential as a late-round pick who could contribute as a depth player and special teams asset is intriguing.
Howard Cross, Interior Defensive Lineman
Tasked with containing the Buckeyes’ formidable rushing attack, Cross shoulders a crucial role in Notre Dame’s defensive strategy. Facing off against rushers like Quinshon Judkins and Treyveon Henderson, Cross’s performance will be pivotal in stifling Ohio State’s ground game.
Jack Kiser, Linebacker
A linchpin in the Fighting Irish’s defensive unit, Kiser’s well-rounded skill set and formidable tackling prowess make him a standout player. With Arizona in need of bolstering their linebacker corps, Kiser could be a valuable mid-to-late round addition, complementing the team’s defensive lineup.
Xavier Watts, Safety
Although the Cardinals currently boast a solid safety lineup, Watts’s exceptional talent demands attention. A stalwart of the Notre Dame defense, Watts showcases the potential to seamlessly transition into a starting role for teams seeking safety reinforcements. While the Cardinals may not have an immediate need at the position, monitoring Watts could prove beneficial for future roster considerations.
In conclusion, as the spotlight shifts to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game, the Arizona Cardinals stand poised to scout potential draft steals among the Notre Dame Fighting Irish contingent. With a keen eye on these four prospects, the Cardinals aim to unearth hidden talent that could elevate their roster in the upcoming NFL Draft.