picks, including three in the top 50. the Irish had two offensive tackles drafted in the top 30, as Joe Alt went No. 5 to the chargers and Blake Fisher went No. 29 to the Cowboys.
“I think it’s a great testament to the program, the way they’re developed, the way they’re coached,” Denbrock said. “I think it’s a great testament to the kids themselves, their work ethic, their desire to be great.”
Notre Dame’s defense also produced a pair of top-50 picks, as linebacker Marist Liufau went No. 35 to Washington and safety Xavier Watts went No. 49 to Carolina.
“I think it’s a great testament to the program,the way they’re developed,the way they’re coached,” Denbrock said. “I think it’s a great testament to the kids themselves,their work ethic,their desire to be great.”
Notre Dame’s other two draft picks were running back Audric Estime (fifth round, Denver) and cornerback Cam Hart (fifth round, Los Angeles Chargers).
“I think it’s a great testament to the program, the way they’re developed, the way they’re coached,” Denbrock said. “I think it’s a great testament to the kids themselves, their work ethic, their desire to be great.”
notre Dame’s NFL draft Success: What’s Behind the pipeline?
Time.news: This year’s NFL Draft saw a strong showing from Notre Dame, with six players selected, including three in the top 50. joe Alt went No. 5 to the Chargers, Blake Fisher at No. 29 to the Cowboys, Marist liufau No.35 to Washington, xavier Watts No. 49 to Carolina, Audric Estime to denver and Cam Hart to the Chargers. What accounts for this success? we spoke with renowned college football analyst,Dr. Evelyn Reed, to break it down.
Time.news: Dr. Reed, thanks for joining us.Notre Dame’s performance in the 2024 NFL draft was certainly extraordinary. What’s the biggest takeaway from their six draft picks, and notably the three within the top 50?
Dr. Evelyn Reed: It signals a program that’s consistently developing high-caliber talent on both sides of the ball. Landing two offensive tackles like Joe Alt and Blake Fisher in the first round is a massive achievement. O-line talent is premium in the NFL. Then to have two defensive players like Marist Liufau and Xavier Watts snatched up within the top 50 adds another dimension to their success. It speaks to sustained excellence across the board.
Time.news: Two offensive tackles in the top 30 is remarkable. What does that say about Notre Dame’s offensive line coaching and growth?
Dr. reed: It’s a huge endorsement. Offensive line is all about technique, power, and football IQ, wich tells me that Notre Dame is doing an excellent job of teaching the fundamentals. Joe Alt was considered a generational tackle prospect by many – this comes from intense recruiting and development. You don’t end up with two top-tier tackles without a dedicated coaching staff and a program that prioritizes offensive line excellence. This makes them a desirable destination for talented O-line recruits.
Time.news: The article also mentions linebacker marist Liufau and safety Xavier Watts being drafted. What qualities make Notre Dame attractive for defensive players vying for the NFL?
Dr.Reed: notre Dame has a history of producing NFL-ready defensive players. Their defensive schemes are refined, preparing players for complex NFL systems. It is an environment that fosters discipline, hard work, and a deep understanding of the game – all critical for success at the next level. And with that kind of coaching, they can take a three-star kid and turn him into a 4th round pick.
Time.news: Coach Denbrock, in the provided text, said that this success is due to the program’s development, coaching, the players’ work ethic, and their desire to be great. How much of this is coaching versus the innate talent of the players themselves?
Dr. Reed: It’s a symbiotic relationship. You need that raw talent, but even the most gifted athlete needs the kind of structure, coaching, and development Notre Dame provides. Denbrock emphasizes a program that cultivates that ambition and work ethic. The coaching staff identifies potential, refines skills, and instills that desire to compete at the highest level.It’s about nurturing talent and creating a winning culture.
Time.news: From your perspective, what practical advice can families and young athletes glean from Notre Dame’s [NFL Draft] success?
Dr. Reed: Number one, focus on developing the fundamentals. Technique, footwork, and understanding the playbook are non-negotiable.Second, actively seek out coaches and programs with a track record of NFL development.Research their coaching styles,techniques,and the successes of their former players. Look for programs that balance athletic training with academic rigor. And third, cultivate a strong work ethic and unwavering commitment to your goals.the road to the NFL requires dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to constantly learn and improve.
