In 2017, Notre Dame head coach Brian Kelly finally went against his pass happy ways and committed to the run game. Why? Because he had two future NFL studs on the left side of his offensive line, and he set up not just the rushing attack, but the offense itself to play to the strengths of the Fighting Irish.
Tackle Mike McGlinchey and Guard Quenton Nelson paved the way for what was certainly a top ten, maybe top five run game in the nation. In just a week from tomorrow night, we’ll find out where both of these big boys will be balling professionally. With Nelson, there seems to be a very positive consensus- he won’t last beyond the top ten, and looks very likely to be selected top five.
With McGlinchey, the spread is much more variable. He’s a sure fire first rounder, but most likely late or middle of the first round. Additionally, ND has a night two guy in wide receiver Equanimeous St. Brown. He projects as a round two-three prospect. So let’s do some Notre Dame NFL Draft mocksourcing- let’s see where a few of our favorite NFL mock drafts have McGlinchey, Nelson and St. Brown going on April 26th.
The Sports Bank– #6 IND
Walter Football-
Walt’s: #5 DEN
Charlie’s: #5 DEN
Consensus: #5 DEN
Chicago Now- #6 IND
Jeremiah: #7 T.B.
Brooks: #6 IND
Casserly: #6 IND
Jones-Drew: #6 IND
The Sports Bank– #17 LAC
Walter Football-
Walt’s: #10 OAK
Charlie’s: #15 ARZ
Consensus: #15-#17
Chicago Now- #23 N.E.
Jeremiah: #21 CIN
Brooks: #32 PHI
Casserly: #16 BAL
Jones-Drew: #8 CHI
Equanimeous St. Brown
Chicago Now- #83 BAL
Walt’s: #67 IND
Charlie’s: #39 CHI
Paul M. Banks runs The Sports Bank.net and TheBank.News, which is partnered with News Now. Banks, a former writer for the Washington Times, NBC Chicago.com and Chicago Tribune.com, currently contributes regularly to WGN CLTV and the Tribune company’s blogging community Chicago Now.
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