While eight former Notre Dame players were invited to the 2025 NFL Combine, only quarterback Riley Leonard, tight end Mitchell Evans, and linebacker Jack Kiser participated in on-field drills. The other players—wide receiver Beaux Collins, defensive tackles Howard Cross III and Rylie Mills, cornerback Benjamin Morrison, and safety Xavier Watts—made the trip to Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. However, they only took part in team interviews. They will gear up for Notre Dame’s Pro Day to showcase their on-field prowess.
The NFL Combine, while not the ultimate measure of a player’s worth, gives teams an opportunity to closely evaluate the incoming draft class through tests, on-field drills, and interviews. Many of the Notre Dame players were selective of their participation at the Combine. Since their unprecedented 2024 season extended through Jan. 20 with a 34-23 loss to Ohio State in the CFP National Championship game, the Irish players had little prep time to prepare for the Combine.
Notre Dame: NFL Combine Takeaways
Mitchell Evans
After tearing an ACL in 2023, Evans made it back into the starting rotation in 2024. His on-field work at the Combine should have eased concerns that NFL decision makers may have had regarding his athletic ability to be explosive and accelerate off the line. Evans made some nice grabs during drills, including catching one ball over his shoulder. Evans, who is made in the mold of a traditional tight end prospect, had a solid Combine performance. He will seek to bolster his draft stock during Notre Dame’s Pro Day.
Jack Kiser
Kiser participated in the on-field linebacker drills but passed on testing at the Combine. He did an admirable job on the drills that tested lateral quickness and change of direction. Kiser also generated a buzz from the crowd during the back pedal and react drill. A seasoned veteran, Kiser played in 70 games for the Irish. He recorded 276 tackles, 6 sacks, and 4 interceptions in a stellar collegiate career. He also forced 7 fumbles. His limited Combine performance combined with his extensive playing experience will likely land Kiser on many draft boards.
Riley Leonard
Like Kiser, Leonard opted to skip the on-field testing. He did, however, take part in the quarterback drills. Leonard demonstrated solid ball placement. His accuracy was not as sharp on the second-level throws, but he showed good arm strength, overall. Leonard may not be a fully refined passer yet, but his intangibles—leadership, grit, and work ethic—will likely encourage teams to invest in his throwing skills.
The Notre Dame trio of Leonard, Kiser, and Evans made their mark at the NFL Combine. They delivered commendable performances in the drills that showcased their potential to NFL scouts. The Fighting Irish standouts with eyes on the next level will have another opportunity to reveal even more of their capabilities at Notre Dame’s Pro Day later this month. The 2025 NFL Draft is slated for April 24-26 in Green Bay.
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