From Notre Dame to Arizona, Four Potential Draft Steals the Cardinals Should Watch
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 some high-profile future picks, the Fighting Irish feature a roster filled with mid-to-late draft prospects who could easily fit into impactful roles at the pro level.
Why James Pearce to the Arizona Cardinals makes sense
As the Arizona Cardinals prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft with a limited number of picks, keeping a close eye on the talent put forward by the Fighting Irish could reveal some hidden gems in the late rounds.
Despite missing key players like Rylie Moss and Benjamin Morrison due to injuries, Notre Dame still boasts a formidable defense led by an exceptional safety.
Offensively, the Fighting Irish lack significant firepower, with rising running back Jeremiah Love only a sophomore. In a team that favors the ground game rather than the pass, one player stands out among the others.
Without further ado, here is a concise list of Notre Dame Fighting Irish prospects to watch in tonight’s championship game:
Kris Mitchell, Receiver
Mitchell’s impressive performance at FIU, where he surpassed 1,100 receiving yards in 2023, drew attention. Despite a less pass-oriented offense after transferring to Notre Dame, Mitchell’s potential as a late draft pick who could contribute as a depth player and special teams asset is intriguing.
-Howard Cross, Interior Defensive Lineman
Tasked with containing the Buckeyes’ fearsome ground attack, Cross plays a crucial role in Notre Dame’s defensive strategy. Going up against runners like Quinshon Judkins and Treyveon Henderson, Cross’ performance will be instrumental in stifling Ohio State’s ground game.
Jack Kiser, Linebacker
A key part of the Fighting Irish’s defensive unit, Kiser’s wide skill set and formidable tackling ability make him a standout player. With Arizona needing to strengthen its linebacker corps, Kiser could be a valuable mid-to-late draft addition, complementing the team’s defensive line.
Xavier Watts, Safety
Although the Cardinals currently have a strong team of safeties, Watts’ exceptional talent is worth noting. A pillar of Notre Dame’s defense, Watts shows the potential to effortlessly transition into a starting role for teams looking for reinforcements at the safety position. While the Cardinals may not have an immediate need at the position, monitoring Watts could prove beneficial for future roster considerations.
In conclusion, as attention turns to the National Championship Game of the College Football Playoffs, the Arizona Cardinals are poised to scout draft opportunities among members of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish team. With a close eye on these four prospects, the Cardinals aim to unearth hidden talents that could strengthen their roster in the upcoming NFL draft.
