Notre Dame Players Shine in the 2025 NFL Draft

Cornerback Benjamin Morrison was drafted in Round 2, Pick 21 (No. 53 Overall) by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Why this matters: Morrison's coverage skills and ball-hawking ability make him a valuable addition to the Buccaneers' defense.

Safety Xavier Watts was drafted in Round 3, Pick 32 (No. 96 Overall) by the Atlanta Falcons. Why this matters: Watts's high-motor and physicality will bring intensity to the Falcons' secondary.

Linebacker Jack Kiser was drafted in Round 4, Pick 5 (No. 107 Overall) by the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Defensive Lineman Rylie Mills was drafted in Round 5, Pick 4 (No. 142 Overall) by the Seattle Seahawks.

Quarterback Riley Leonard is also headed to the NFL after leading the Fighting Irish to the national title game.

CB Benjamin Morrison: Round 2, Pick 21 (No. 53 Overall) to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

S Xavier Watts: Round 3, Pick 32 (No. 96 Overall) to the Atlanta Falcons

TE Mitchell Evans

LB Jack Kiser: Round 4, Pick 5 (No. 107 Overall) to the Jacksonville Jaguars

QB Riley Leonard

DL Rylie Mills: Round 5, Pick 4 (No. 142 Overall) to the Seattle Seahawks

WR Beaux Collins

DL Howard Cross III

**EDGE RJ Oben

Q: What were Benjamin Morrison’s key strengths?

Q: What makes Xavier Watts a standout prospect?

Q: What is notable about Riley Leonard?

Notre Dame had a strong presence in the 2025 NFL Draft, particularly on the defensive side.

Benjamin Morrison and Xavier Watts are two names to watch as they enter the NFL.

Riley Leonard's transition to the pros will be interesting to follow, given his potential as a dual-threat quarterback.