Kyle Hamilton, as blue as a blue chip recruit can be, made an instant impact as a Notre Dame freshman, finishing seventh on the team in tackles (41), tied for second in passes defended (6) while leading the team in interceptions (4) and scoring the only defensive touchdown in 2019.
In his sophomore season, Hamilton was one of the leaders of the defense, as he continued his fast learning curve. After serving as a backup safety to Alohi Gilman and Jalen Elliott in 2019, he became a starter and was named first-team All-ACC after recording 63 tackles, six pass breakups, and an interception.
He’s the best individual player on this Fighting Irish squad.
Kyle Hamilton is the best safety in college football this year, and he’s among the best three defensive backs. He’s also probably a top five defensive player, and given all his measurables and skill sets, it’s hard to imagine he sticks around beyond this season.
Hamilton should be a top 10-15 overall pick in the very next NFL Draft, and if that happens it would simply complete the story arc of his collegiate career.
He came to South Bend as a highly rated 5-star recruit. He’ll leave as blue chip NFL prospect.
Brian Kelly discussed the rest of the secondary, beyond his superstar safety. Houston Griffith returns as the other starting safety while Cam Hart returns as the CB1.
This summer sees an open position battle for CB2; and the nickel of course.
“We have to have more than Kyle Hamilton, okay?” Kelly said.
“We like the spring that Houston had. We love his leadership. We love what he’s been about in terms of his makeup, so we’re counting on Houston. DJ, obviously we’re counting on him to really play a significant role for us.
“I think it starts with those two guys.
“Those three in particular, and then finding the fourth. There’s a number of guys that will compete for that position, but I think you start with the three safeties and let’s go find a fourth.”
2021 Team Season Preview Series: Northwestern Notre Dame Illinois
Paul M. Banks runs The Sports Bank, partnered with News Now. Banks, the author of “Transatlantic Passage: How the English Premier League Redefined Soccer in America” and “No, I Can’t Get You Free Tickets: Lessons Learned From a Life in the Sports Media Industry,” has regularly appeared in WGN, Sports Illustrated and the Chicago Tribune.
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