The University of Notre Dame is a private Catholic research university located in Notre Dame, Indiana. Established in 1842 by Father Edward Sorin and seven Holy Cross brothers, the University of Notre Dame has grown and evolved into one of the most prestigious universities in the world. The university is dedicated to cultivating a diverse, vibrant and welcoming community of students, faculty and staff who are passionate about excellence in education, research, and service.
The university is also dedicated to fostering an environment of mutual respect and inclusivity, as well as a commitment to the Catholic faith. The University of Notre Dame offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and professional programs across a variety of disciplines and fields, including business, engineering, law, medicine, and more.
Students from around the world are drawn to the university for its rigorous academic standards, vibrant campus life, and beautiful architecture. The University of Notre Dame is a place where the highest standards of excellence are both honored and pursued.
1. George Connor
Career
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1950–1953)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1949, 1955)
- 4× Pro Bowl (1950–1953)
- NFL 1940s All-Decade Team
- 100 greatest Bears of All-Time
- 2× National champion (1946, 1947)
- Outland Trophy (1946)
- 2× Consensus All-American (1946, 1947)
- Second-team All-American (1943)
George Connor was an offensive tackle and linebacker for the Chicago Bears. He was selected in the first round of the 1946 NFL draft and played with the team from 1948 to 1955.
Connor was a four-time First-team All-Pro, two-time Second-team All-Pro, and three-time Pro Bowl player during his career.
He is most commonly remembered for helping lead the Bears to their first championship in franchise history in 1951 when he helped block Joe Perry's punt that led to a touchdown by Johnny Lujack late in the game.
Connor retired after playing his final season with the Detroit Lions in 1955. After retiring from football, Connor worked as a television color commentator for several years before passing away at age 78 on March 31, 2003.
George Connor was a highly decorated player in the NFL during the 1940s. He was twice named an All-American and won two championships with the Bears.
George Connor also had a successful career after leaving the NFL, playing in both the CFL and USFL. He is one of only six players to have played in both leagues at any point in their careers.
George Connor passed away at age 89 due to complications from Alzheimer's disease, but his legacy lives on as one of Chicago's all-time great football players.
Also Played For: chcago bears, chicago bears
2. Zack Martin
Guard
Career
- 5× First-team All-Pro (2014, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2021)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (2015, 2017)
- 8× Pro Bowl (2014–2019, 2021, 2022)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2014)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- Second-team All-American (2012)
- 2013 Pinstripe Bowl MVP
Zack Martin was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the 2014 NFL Draft. He has played for the Dallas Cowboys since then and is a regular starter on their offensive line.
Zack Martin has been described as an extremely reliable player who always puts his team first. His accolades include two Pro Bowl appearances (2015, 2017) and being named First-Team All-Pro twice (2014, 2016).
Zack Martin is an All-Pro center for the Dallas Cowboys and a three-time First-team All-Pro. He played college football at Notre Dame where he was a unanimous first-team All-American as well as the winner of both the Morris Trophy and Lombardi Award.
Zack Martin has started 131 games in his NFL career, all with the Dallas Cowboys, since being drafted in the second round of the 2010 draft.
Also Played For: dallsa cowboy, dallas cowboys
3. Golden Tate
Wide receiver
Career
- Seattle Seahawks (2010–2013)
- Detroit Lions (2014–2018)
- Philadelphia Eagles (2018)
- New York Giants (2019–2020)
- Tennessee Titans (2021)*
Golden Tate was a wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks, Detroit Lions and Philadelphia Eagles in his 10-year NFL career. He is known for being an all-around playmaker, with experience as both a receiver and punt returner.
In 2018, he signed with the Eagles after spending one season with the team in 2017. Tate has twice been named to the Pro Bowl (2011 and 2013), as well as won Super Bowl XLVIII with the Seattle Seahawks over the Denver Broncos.
Golden Tate is a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time Super Bowl champion. He has over 8,000 receiving yards in his career and 46 touchdowns on the ground. The Detroit Lions receiver will be a key player for the New York Giants this season.
Also Played For: detroit lions, notre dame fighting irish football
4. Paul Hornung
Safety
Career
- Super Bowl champion (I)
- 4× NFL champion (1961, 1962, 1965, 1966)
- NFL Most Valuable Player (1961)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1960, 1961)
- Second-team All-Pro (1959)
- 2× Pro Bowl (1959, 1960)
- Bert Bell Award (1961)
- NFL rushing touchdowns leader (1960)
- 3× NFL scoring leader (1959–1961)
- NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
- Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame
- Heisman Trophy (1956)
- 2× First-team All-America (1955, 1956)
Hornung was a Hall of Fame halfback and kicker who played for the Green Bay Packers from 1957 to 1962 and again in 1964-1966. Hornung won two NFL championships with the Packers, in 1961 and 1965.
He also appeared in three Super Bowls (two as a starter) between those years. After leaving the Packers, Hornung spent time with several other teams before retiring after the 1966 season.
In addition to his achievements on the field, Hornung was known for his flamboyant style off it – he once said that he wanted "to be remembered as one of Louisville's most colorful characters".
Hornung died on November 13th, 2020 at age 84 after suffering from cancer Paul Hornung was a Hall of Fame running back who starred for the Green Bay Packers.
He is most famous for his performance in the 1960s when he led the NFL in rushing touchdowns three times and scored more than 2,000 points over his career. Hornung also won two MVP Awards and was a first-team All-American twice.
After retiring from football, Hornung became an analyst on ESPN's Monday Night Football broadcasts and later served as head coach of the Milwaukee Badgers football team.
Also Played For: green bay packers, heisman trophy nfl
5. Tim Brown
Wide receiver
Career
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1996, 1997)
- 9× Pro Bowl (1988, 1991, 1993–1997, 1999, 2001)
- NFL receptions co-leader (1997)
- NFL kickoff return yards leader (1988)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1988)
- Heisman Trophy (1987)
- Walter Camp Award (1987)
- Sporting News Player of the Year (1987)
- UPI Player of the Year (1987)
- Unanimous All-American (1987)
Brown was drafted by the Los Angeles Raiders in 1988 and spent his entire 12-year career with the team. Brown won two Super Bowls (XXVII, XXVIII) with the Raiders and was named to nine Pro Bowls.
After retiring as a player, Brown has worked as an analyst for NFL Network and Fox Sports 1. Tim Brown was one of the greatest receivers in NFL history. He was a two-time All-Pro and nine-time Pro Bowler.
He led the NFL in receptions twice and receiving yards once. Brown also had an impressive kickoff return record, recording more than 2,000 yards during his career.
In 1987, he became the first player ever to be unanimously awarded All-American honors by all three major college football polling organizations (Coaches’ Association of America, The Associated Press, American Football Coaches Association).
At 29 years old at the time of his retirement from professional football following the 1997 season, Tim Brown holds numerous records for both receiver and positions in modern NFL history – including the most consecutive starts by a receiver (176) and most touchdowns scored by any player in a single season (23).
Also Played For: las vegas raiders, oakland raiders
6. Dave Casper
Career
- Super Bowl champion (XI)
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1976–1979)
- 5× Pro Bowl (1976–1980)
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- National champion (1973)
- Consensus All-American (1973)
Dave Casper was a tight end who played in the NFL for 14 seasons. He began his career with the Oakland Raiders and spent time with the Houston Oilers and Minnesota Vikings before ending his career with the Los Angeles Raiders.
Dave Casper is best known for his time with the Minnesota Vikings, where he helped lead them to two Super Bowl appearances (1984 and 1985).
After retirement from football, Dave Casper opened up a bar in Minneapolis called The Blue Note Lounge which remains open to this day.
Dave Casper was a dominant receiver in the NFL during the 1970s. He was named to five Pro Bowl teams and won a Super Bowl championship with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1976.
Casper also earned consensus All-American honors from selectors including The Associated Press, United Press International, and Football Writers Association of America.
After retiring from football, he went on to have a successful career as an executive with several major sports franchises.
He is one of only six players ever inducted into both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and College Football Hall of Fame (the other five are Raymond Berry, Gale Sayers, Archie Griffin, Jim Brown and Doak Walker).
7. Alan Page
Defensive lineman
Career
- NFL champion (1969)
- NFL Most Valuable Player (1971)
- 2× NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1971, 1973)
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1969–1971, 1973–1975)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1968, 1972, 1976)
- 9× Pro Bowl (1968–1976)
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- 50 Greatest Vikings
- Minnesota Vikings 25th Anniversary Team
- Minnesota Vikings 40th Anniversary Team
- Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
- Minnesota Vikings No. 88 retired
- 2× National champion (1964, 1966)
- Consensus All-American (1966)
Alan Page was born on August 7, 1945, in Canton, Ohio. He attended the University of Notre Dame where he obtained a B.A. in 1966 and then went to the University of Minnesota Law School where he received his J.D.
in 1969. Page worked as an Assistant United States Attorney from 1970-1972 before being appointed a state district court judge for Ramsey County, Minnesota in 1972 and serving there until 1993 when he became an Associate Justice on the Minnesota Supreme Court.
In 2000, Page was named Chief Judge of the Eighth Judicial District which covers portions of Hennepin County. In 2008, he became Chief Judge for all 58 counties across Minnesota On August 31st, 2015 AlanPage retired from his position as an Associate Justice on the Minnesota Supreme Court after 36 years of service.
Alan is married to Diane Sims Page and they have four children together Alan Page was a defensive tackle in the NFL for 14 seasons.
He is best known for his time with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he won two Super Bowls (1975 and 1980). The page also played for the Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings during his career. In 2018, Alan Page received a Presidential Medal of Freedom award from President Donald Trump.
Also Played For: minnesota vikings
8. Justin Tuck
Defensive end
Career
- 2× Super Bowl champion (XLII, XLVI)
- First-team All-Pro (2008)
- Second-team All-Pro (2010)
- 2× Pro Bowl (2008, 2010)
- New York Giants Ring of Honor
Justin Tuck was drafted by the New York Giants in 2005 and played for them until 2013. He then signed with the Oakland Raiders, where he spent two seasons before retiring in 2015.
Justin Tuck is a well-known defensive end who has had a successful career both in the NFL and internationally. He is married to model Ashley Graham and they have one child together.
Tuck is one of the most decorated players in Giants history and his tenure with the team was marked by several playoff appearances. Tuck started as a defensive end but has since moved to outside linebacker, where he has been very effective over the years.
He won two Super Bowls with New York and also received first-team All-Pro accolades in 2008 and 2010. After eight seasons spent with the Giants, Tuck announced that he would be retiring at the end of this season.
Also Played For: new york giants
9. Jerome Bettis
Running back
Career
- Super Bowl champion (XL)
- NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1993)
- NFL Comeback Player of the Year (1996)
- Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (2001)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1993, 1996)
- Second-team All-Pro (1997)
- 6× Pro Bowl (1993, 1994, 1996, 1997, 2001, 2004)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1993)
- Pittsburgh Steelers All-Time Team
- Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor
- Pittsburgh Pro Football Hall of Fame
Jerome Bettis is a three-time Super Bowl champion and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2016. Bettis originally played for the Los Angeles / St.
Louis Rams, before moving on to play for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He is one of only two players in NFL history to rush for over 2,000 yards in three different seasons (1993–1995).
In 2005, Bettis retired from professional football after playing with the Pittsburgh Steelers for 13 seasons.
Jerome Bettis currently works as an analyst for Fox Sports and provides commentary on college football games Jerome Bettis was a two-time Super Bowl champion and five-time Pro Bowler with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
He is considered one of the best running backs in NFL history, ranking third all-time in rushing yards and fourth in touchdowns.
Jerome Bettis also won the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award in 2001. Jerome Bettis retired from professional football after the 2016 season at age 42 to pursue other interests outside of football.
Also Played For: pittsburgh steelers
10. Rocky Bleier
Career
- 4× Super Bowl champion (IX, X, XIII, XIV)
- George Halas Award (1975)
- Pittsburgh Steelers All-Time Team
- Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor
- Pittsburgh Pro Football Hall of Fame
- AFCA national champion (1966)
- NCAA Inspiration Award (2020)
Bleier was a versatile halfback who played for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 1968 to 1980. He was one of the most productive running backs in NFL history, amassing over 12,000 rushing yards and 75 touchdowns during his career.
Bleier also made an impact as a passer, completing more than 2,200 passes during his career. Bleier retired after the 1980 season with Hall of Fame status and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002. Rocky Bleier was a four-time Super Bowl champion and Hall of Fame player with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Bleier played in nine NFL seasons, starting as a running back for the team from 1969 to 1972. He also served two tours of duty in Vietnam; one with the Army and another with the Air Force Reserve following his discharge from active duty.
After retiring from football, Rocky Bleier became an ESPN broadcaster and worked on various shows including Monday Night Football, Sunday Night Football, SportsCenter, and numerous college football telecasts across America.
11. Stephon Tuitt
Defensive end
Career
- Pittsburgh Steelers (2014–2021)
Stephon Tuitt was born in Miami, Florida on May 23, 1993. He played college football at Notre Dame and was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2014.
Tuitt has been a key player for the Steelers since he joined the team and is known for his strong defensive play. In 2017, Tuitt signed with the Oakland Raiders as a free agent and has continued to be one of their top defenders.
Tuitt was a versatile player for the Pittsburgh Steelers, playing at both the defensive end and inside linebacker. He finished his career with 246 tackles, 34.5 sacks, 6 forced fumbles, and 1 fumble recovery. Tuitt also had 13 pass deflections in his NFL career.
Tuitt is an excellent run defender who can quickly collapse the pocket on opposing quarterbacks to cause chaos for their offense. The Steelers drafted Tuitt in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft, and he has since become one of their key players on defense.
Also Played For: defensive end
12. Joe Montana
Quarterback
Career
- 4× Super Bowl champion (XVI, XIX, XXIII, XXIV)
- 3× Super Bowl MVP (XVI, XIX, XXIV)
- 2× NFL Most Valuable Player (1989, 1990)
- NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1989)
- NFL Comeback Player of the Year (1986)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (1987, 1989, 1990)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1981, 1984)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1981, 1983–1985, 1987, 1989, 1990, 1993)
- 2× NFL passing touchdowns leader (1982, 1987)
- 2× NFL passer rating leader (1987, 1989)
- 5× NFL completion percentage leader (1980, 1981, 1985, 1987, 1989)
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame
- San Francisco 49ers No. 16 retired
- Bert Bell Award (1989)
- 2× George Halas Award (1988, 1994)
- Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year (1990)
- 2× AP Athlete of the Year (1989, 1990)
- National champion (1977)
Joe Montana is one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. He led the 49ers to five Super Bowl championships and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992.
Joe Montana started his career with the San Francisco 49ers, winning two Super Bowls during his time there. After leaving San Francisco, he played for the Kansas City Chiefs before retiring from football in 1994.
In 2003, he came out of retirement to play for the St Louis Rams but retired again after one season due to injury. Joe Montana has been involved in several business ventures since retiring from football including a stake in a restaurant chain and their own role in an ice hockey team.
He currently resides near Sacramento with his wife Kathleen and their three children Josephine, Jack Jr, and Emmett.
He remains active on social media where he frequently posts about sports and current events. Montana is remembered as one of the most clutch players in NFL history - even earning himself the nickname "Joe Cool".
His ability to make dramatic plays under pressure helped him lead his teams to countless victories over rivals such as Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos, Green Bay Packers、 Oakland Raiders, Los Angeles Raiders, and Washington Redskins.
Although he no longer actively participates in professional football, Joe Montana remains an iconic figure within American sports culture Joe Montana was a five-time Super Bowl champion and three-time MVP.
He is also one of only two players in NFL history to throw for over 50,000 yards and rush for over 10,000 yards. In 1989, he became the first player in league history to be named MVP unanimously. Joe has been inducted into both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame.
Also Played For: san francisco 49ers, nfl europe
13. Joe Theismann
Quarterback
Career
- Super Bowl champion (XVII)
- NFL Most Valuable Player (1983)
- NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1983)
- NFL Man of the Year (1982)
- First-team All-Pro (1983)
- 2× Pro Bowl (1982, 1983)
- Bert Bell Award (1982)
- 2× CFL All-Star (1971, 1973)
- Washington Commanders 90 Greatest
- Washington Redskins Ring of Fame
- First-team All-American (1970)
Joe Theismann was a quarterback for the Washington Redskins from 1974-1985. He is best known for leading the Redskins to their first Super Bowl victory in 1984, and earning First Team All-Pro honors four times during his career.
In 1991, Joe Theismann became the third player in NFL history to throw for over 50,000 yards and rush for over 10,000 yards. Joe Theismann retired from professional football following the 1985 season with an all-time record of 53–33–1 as a starter.
After retiring from playing football, he served as an analyst on NBC's Sunday Night Football game broadcasts until 2003.
In 2012, Joe Theismann was inducted into both the College Football Hall of Fame and Pro Football Hall of Fame Joe Theismann is a two-time Pro Bowler and NFL Most Valuable Player.
He played quarterback for the Washington Redskins in the 1980s and led them to three Super Bowl appearances, including their first win in 1983.
After retirement from football, Joe became an analyst on NFL broadcasts and served as president of the Washington Redskins Ring of Fame from 2002 to 2009. In March 2010, he was diagnosed with multiple myeloma but continued working until his death at 74 in December 2017.
Also Played For: washington commanders
14. Tyler Eifert
Cincinnati Bengals
Career
- High school: Fort Wayne (IN) Bishop Dwenger
- College: Notre Dame (2009–2012)
- Position: Tight end
- NFL Draft: 2013 / Round: 1 / Pick: 21
- Cincinnati Bengals (2013–2019), Jacksonville Jaguars (2020)
- Pro Bowl (2015), First-team All-American (2012), John Mackey Award (2012)
- Receptions: 221, Receiving yards: 2,501, Receiving touchdowns: 26
- Receptions: 221
- Receiving yards: 2,501
- Receiving touchdowns: 26
Tyler Eifert was a tight end for the Cincinnati Bengals from 2013-2019. He had an impressive rookie season in 2013, catching 54 passes for 787 yards and six touchdowns.
In 2018, he missed the entire season with a torn ACL. Prior to his injury, he had caught 58 passes for 817 yards and five touchdowns in 2017. He is considered one of the best tight ends in NFL history and has been selected to four Pro Bowls (2016–2018).
Tyler Eifert was a two-time First-team All American and Pro Bowler at Notre Dame. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2013, but spent time on injured reserve before being traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2017.
In his three seasons with Jacksonville, he has been one of the team’s most reliable receivers, amassing over 2,500 receiving yards and 26 touchdowns.
With an upcoming contract extension likely awaiting him, there is no doubt that Tyler Eifert will continue playing at a high level for many years to come.
Also Played For: madden nfl 17, madden nfl 20
15. Brady Quinn
Notre Dame Fighting Irish football
Career
- High school: Dublin Coffman (Dublin, Ohio)
- College: Notre Dame (2003–2006)
- NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 1 / Pick: 22
- Cleveland Browns (2007–2009), Denver Broncos (2010–2011), Kansas City Chiefs (2012), Seattle Seahawks (2013)*, New York Jets (2013), St. Louis Rams (2013), Miami Dolphins (2014)*
- * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
- Sammy Baugh Trophy (2005), Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (2006), Maxwell Award (2006), Cingular All-America Player of the Year (2006)
- TD–INT: 12–17, Passing yards: 3,043, Passer rating: 64.4
- TD–INT: 12–17
- Passing yards: 3,043
- Passer rating: 64.4
Quinn was a three-year starter at quarterback for Notre Dame. He was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the 2007 NFL Draft, but never played for them due to injury.
Quinn signed with the Denver Broncos in 2010, and started 12 games for them that season. In 2011, he joined the Kansas City Chiefs and led them to an AFC West title that year before being released in 2012 during free agency.
Quinn signed with Seattle Seahawks as their new starting QB after Russell Wilson tore his ACL late in 2013 season.. Quinn was drafted by the New York Jets in the third round of the 2005 NFL Draft.
Quinn played college football at Notre Dame and won a number of awards, including two Sammy Baugh Trophies (2005, 2006) and a Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (2006).
Quinn had an up-and-down career with the Jets but ultimately made it to one Super Bowl with them - losing to the St. Louis Rams in 2013. Quinn signed with Miami as a free agent in 2014 and continued his career there until he retired after the 2017 season.
Also Played For: 2007 nfl draft
16. Ross Browner
Defensive end
Career
- High school: Warren Western Reserve High School
- College: Notre Dame
- NFL Draft: 1978 / Round: 1 / Pick: 8
- Cincinnati Bengals (1978–1986), Houston Gamblers (1985), Green Bay Packers (1987)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1978), Outland Trophy (1976), UPI Lineman of the Year (1976), Maxwell Award (1977), Lombardi Award (1977), UPI Lineman of the Year (1977), 2× All-American (1976, 1977)
- College Football Hall of Fame
Ross Browner was a defensive end who played in the NFL for over 20 years. He started his career with the Cincinnati Bengals and then spent time with the Houston Gamblers before retiring from football in 1986.
Ross Browner later became an assistant coach at Notre Dame, where he worked until his death in 2022 aged 67 Browner was a two-time All-American at the University of Oregon, and he helped lead his team to back-to-back national championships in 1977 and 1978.
Browner played 14 seasons in the NFL with the Green Bay Packers (1987–1994) and Seattle Seahawks (1995).
He is one of only four players in NFL history to be named an all-pro twice by both Associated Press and Pro Football Writers Association. In 1994, Browner was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame as part of its first class.
After retiring from football, Browner served as assistant head coach for defensive backs for three seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs before joining Pete Carroll's staff at USC as defensive coordinator in 2007.
17. Michael Mayer
Career
- College: , Notre Dame (2020–2022)
- Bowl games: , 2022 Gator Bowl
- High school: Covington Catholic (Park Hills, Kentucky)
- Consensus All-American (2022), Third-team All-American (2021), Third-team All-ACC (2020)
Michael Mayer is a junior tight end for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. He was born in Independence, Kentucky on July 6th, 2001 and attended high school there before enrolling at Notre Dame.
At Notre Dame he played both offensive and defensive lineman during his freshman year before settling into the tight end position as a sophomore. As a junior he led all Tight Ends with 83 receptions for 1128 yards and 10 touchdowns (all career highs).
Michael Mayer has also been an important blocker for the Fighting Irish offense this season, earning Second Team All-American Athletic Conference honors from ESPN College Football Insider Phil Steele as well as First Team All-America status by 247 Sports Composite rankings.
Michael Mayer was a consensus All-American in 2022. He also received third-team accolades from both the Associated Press and the College Football News in 2021. A three-time all-conference selection, he helped lead Covington Catholic to back-to-back state championships (2020, 2021).
Also Played For: college football, ncaa division football
18. Isaiah Foskey
Career
- College: , Notre Dame (2019–2022)
- Bowl games: , 2019 Camping World Bowl, 2022 Gator Bowl
- High school: De La Salle (Concord, California)
- Consensus All-American (2022)
Isaiah Foskey is a senior defensive end for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. He was a two-time All-American and an Academic All-American while at Notre Dame.
Isaiah Fosky helped lead the Fighting Irish to their first College Football Playoff appearance in over a decade in 2018. In his final season with the team, he registered 14 tackles (10 solo) and 3 sacks in 11 games played.
Isaiah is from Antioch, California and attended Centennial High School before enrolling at Notre Dame where he majored in business administration with a concentration in finance and accounting.
Isaiah Foskey was a consensus All-American in his final season at De La Salle, and he helped the team make it to the national championship game. He is known for being one of the best defenders in college football history, and he will be an important part of whoever wins the Camping World Bowl this year.
Isaiah has also been nominated for several awards during his career, including but not limited to College Football News' Lombardi Award and The Sporting News' Bednarik Award ... both of which he won once.
He is a highly respected member of his community, and many people are looking forward to seeing him play in this year's Camping World Bowl.
Also Played For: mock draft
19. Johnny Lujack
Quarterback
Career
- High school: Connellsville
- College: Notre Dame (1943, 1946–1947)
- NFL Draft: 1946 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4
- Chicago Bears (1948–1951)
- AP Athlete of the Year (1947), First-team All-Pro (1950), 2× Pro Bowl (1950, 1951), NFL passing touchdowns leader (1949), NFL passing yards leader (1949), NFL rushing touchdowns leader (1950), 100 greatest Bears of All-Time, 3× National champion (1943, 1946, 1947), Heisman Trophy (1947), 2× Unanimous All-American (1946, 1947)
- Pass att/cmp: 404/808, Passing yards: 6,295, TD–INT: 41–54, Rushing yards: 742, Rushing touchdowns: 21, Interceptions: 12
- Pass att/cmp: 404/808
- Passing yards: 6,295
- TD–INT: 41–54
- Rushing yards: 742
- Rushing touchdowns: 21
- Interceptions: 12
- College Football Hall of Fame
Lujack was a two-time Pro Bowler and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1984. He led the Bears to the NFL Championship in 1948 and 1949.
He also played for the Washington Redskins, Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles. He died in 1995 at the age of 78. Lujack was a two-time Pro Bowler and one of the most successful players in Bears history.
He led the NFL in passing yards in 1949 and 1950 and was also a prolific rusher. Lujack was a two-time Heisman Trophy winner and one of the most successful college football players of the 1940s. He is also a member of the NFL’s 100 Greatest Players list.
After retiring from the NFL, Lujack worked as a broadcaster for the Bears and other sports teams. He died in 1995 at the age of 69.
20. George Gipp
Running back
Career
- College: Notre Dame (1917–1920)
- High school: Calumet (MI)
- Consensus All-American (1920)
- College Football Hall of Fame (1951)
George Gipp was a standout halfback at the University of Michigan. Gipp helped lead the Wolverines to a national championship in 1921. Gipp was killed in a car accident in 1920.
George Gipp was one of the greatest runners in Notre Dame history and was consensus All-American in 1920. Gipp was also a two-time winner of the Big Ten Conference's rushing title and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1951.
After completing his college career, Gipp played one season with the Chicago Cardinals before retiring from football. George Gipp is the all-time leading rusher in Notre Dame history and is also the second-highest scorer in school history.
Gipp is also remembered for his humanitarian work and was the first Irish player to visit China after the communist takeover. George Gipp passed away in 1984 at the age of 85.
21. Raghib Ismail
Wide receiver
Career
- High school: Wilkes-Barre (PA) Meyers
- College: Notre Dame (1988–1990)
- NFL Draft: 1991 / Round: 4 / Pick: 100
- Toronto Argonauts (1991–1992), Los Angeles / Oakland Raiders (1993–1995), Carolina Panthers (1996–1998), Dallas Cowboys (1999–2002)
- Consensus All-American (1990), Walter Camp Award (1990), Frank M. Gibson Trophy (1991), Grey Cup champion (79th), Grey Cup MVP (1991), CFL All-Star (1991)
- Receptions: 363, Receiving yards: 5,295, Receiving touchdowns: 30
- Receptions: 363
- Receiving yards: 5,295
- Receiving touchdowns: 30
- College Football Hall of Fame
Raghib Ismail played wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys from 1999 to 2002. Ismail had a productive career with the Cowboys, posting 82 catches for 1,098 yards and eight touchdowns.
After leaving the NFL, Ismail played for the Toronto Argonauts and Los Angeles / Oakland Raiders in the Canadian Football League. Ismail is now a color commentator for the Dallas Cowboys broadcasts.
Raghib Ismail was born on November 18, 1969, in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Ismail is married and has two children. Raghib Ismail is a color commentator for the Dallas Cowboys broadcasts. Raghib Ismail was inducted into the Cowboys Ring of Honor in 2013.
Raghib Ismail was born on November 18, 1969, in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Raghib Ismail was a consensus All-American in 1990 and won the Walter Camp Award and Frank M. Gibson Trophy as the best player in Canadian football that year. He played for the BC Lions in the CFL and won the Grey Cup championship in 1991.
Ismail was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the first round of the 1991 NFL Draft and played for the team until he was released in 1997. He then played for the Seattle Seahawks and Kansas City Chiefs, before retiring in 2001.
Ismail was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 2006. Raghib Ismail is a member of the Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame.
He is also a member of the BC Lions Wall of Honour. Raghib Ismail holds the Eagles record for most receptions in a single season (103 in 1993). Raghib Ismail is a retired professional football player.
22. Johnny Lattner
Halfback
Career
- High school: Oak Park (IL) Fenwick
- College: Notre Dame (1951–1953)
- NFL Draft: 1954 / Round: 1 / Pick: 7
- Pittsburgh Steelers (1954)
- Pro Bowl (1954), Heisman Trophy (1953), 2× Maxwell Award (1952, 1953), 2× Consensus All-American (1952, 1953)
- College Football Hall of Fame
Johnny Lattner was a halfback in the NFL for more than 20 years. He played for the Chicago Bears, Baltimore Colts, and Los Angeles Rams. He was a two-time Pro Bowler and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985.
Lattner also served as the Bears' head coach in 1978 and 1979. He passed away in 2016 at the age of 83. Johnny Lattner was a two-time consensus All-American and two-time Heisman Trophy finalist at Pittsburgh.
Johnny Lattner was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the 1954 NFL Draft and played for the team for eleven seasons.
Lattner led the Steelers to five division titles and one Super Bowl victory, earning him the nickname "The Steel Curtain." Johnny Lattner was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1984.
After his playing career ended, Johnny Lattner became a successful coach, leading the Miami Dolphins to two consecutive AFC Championship Games. Johnny Lattner is currently the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers.
23. Leon Hart
End
Career
- High school: Turtle Creek (PA)
- College: Notre Dame (1946–1949)
- NFL Draft: 1950 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1
- Detroit Lions (1950–1957)
- 3× NFL champion (1952, 1953, 1957), Pro Bowl (1951), First-team All-Pro (1951), 3× Consensus National champion (1946, 1947, 1949), 2× All-American (1948, 1949), Heisman Trophy (1949), Maxwell Award (1949), Sporting News Player of the Year (1949)
- Receptions: 174, Receiving yards: 2,499, Touchdowns: 26
- Receptions: 174
- Receiving yards: 2,499
- Touchdowns: 26
- College Football Hall of Fame
Leon Hart was a standout fullback for Notre Dame and was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the 1950 NFL Draft. Hart played for the Lions for 10 seasons and was a part of the team that won the NFL Championship in 1952.
Hart was a physical player who was known for his powerful running and blocking. He was a key part of the Lions' success in the 1950s and helped the team win two NFL Championships. Hart retired from the NFL in 1957 and later worked as a football coach at Notre Dame.
He died in 2002 at the age of 73. Leon Hart was a highly respected player and ambassador for the NFL. He was a member of the NFL Alumni Association and served on the Board of Directors for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Leon Hart was a dedicated family man who enjoyed spending time with his wife and children.
He was a popular figure in the Detroit community and was fondly remembered by fans and teammates alike. Leon Hart was a pioneer in the fullback position and his influence on the game of football will be remembered for years to come.
He was a skilled runner and powerful blocker who was a key part of the Detroit Lions' dynasty of the 1950s.
24. Reggie Brooks
Running back
Career
- High school: Tulsa (OK) Washington
- College: Notre Dame
- NFL Draft: 1993 / Round: 2 / Pick: 45
- Washington Redskins (1993–1995), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1996)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1993), All-American (1992)
- Rushing yards: 1,726, Average: 3.9, Touchdowns: 7
- Rushing yards: 1,726
- Average: 3.9
- Touchdowns: 7
Reggie Brooks was a running back for both the Washington Redskins and the Green Bay Packers in the NFL. He was a two-time All-Pro and a four-time Pro Bowler.
Brooks is best known for his time with the Redskins, where he was a key part of the team's run to the 1995 NFC Championship Game. Brooks was also a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Oakland Raiders, and San Francisco 49ers in his career.
He announced his retirement from the NFL in 2009. Reggie Brooks is currently an analyst for the NFL on Fox television network. Brooks was inducted into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame in 2013. Brooks and his wife, Tawanna, have two children.
Brooks is a Christian and has spoken about his faith in the past. Reggie Brooks was a unanimous first-team All-American in 1992, and a Pro Football Weekly All-Rookie Team selection that year. Brooks led the Buccaneers in rushing yards in 1996 with 1,726 on 193 carries.
Brooks scored seven touchdowns that season. Brooks was released by Tampa Bay in 1997 and spent the next four seasons with the Green Bay Packers.
Brooks finished his NFL career with 2,097 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns. Brooks returned to Tampa Bay in 2003 as the team's assistant head coach and running backs coach. Brooks was inducted into the Buccaneers' Hall of Fame in 2006.
Also Played For: running back redskins
25. Vagas Ferguson
Running back
Career
- High school: Richmond (IN)
- College: Notre Dame
- NFL Draft: 1980 / Round: 1 / Pick: 25
- New England Patriots (1980–1982), Cleveland Browns (1983), Houston Oilers (1984)
Vagas Ferguson was born in Richmond, Indiana on March 6, 1957. He attended Richmond High School where he starred in football and track. Ferguson played college football at Notre Dame.
He was a three-time All-American and was a member of the 1977 national championship team. Ferguson was drafted by the Baltimore Colts in the 1980 NFL Draft. He played for the Colts, the Minnesota Vikings, and the San Francisco 49ers.
Ferguson was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1998. Ferguson retired from football in 1998. He now works as a football analyst for NBC Sports. Ferguson was married to his wife, Georgette, from 1984 until her death in 2006.
They had two children. Ferguson was diagnosed with Alzheimers in 2016 and died in 2018 at the age of 65. Vagas Ferguson is a former linebacker for the Cleveland Browns and Houston Oilers. He played for the Browns from 1983 to 1984 and was a part of the team that won the 1984 AFC Championship.
Ferguson also played in the 1980s with the New England Patriots. Ferguson was drafted in the third round of the 1980 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots.
He played for the Patriots from 1980 to 1982 and was a part of the team that won the 1981 Super Bowl. After leaving the Patriots, Ferguson played for the Cleveland Browns from 1983 to 1984.
The Browns won the 1984 AFC Championship with Ferguson playing in all 16 games. After leaving the Browns, Ferguson played for the Houston Oilers from 1984 to 1985. The Oilers made the playoffs in 1985 but lost to the Dallas Cowboys in the first round.
Ferguson finished his career with the Houston Oilers in 1985. He played in 13 games for the Oilers and recorded four tackles.
Ferguson is currently an analyst for the NFL Network. He previously worked as a color commentator for the NFL on Fox and was a sideline reporter for the NFL on CBS. Ferguson was born on February 10, 1964 in Fresno, California.
He played college football at Fresno State and was drafted in the third round of the 1980 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots. Vagas Ferguson is married and has two children. He is a resident of Houston, Texas.
26. Jeff Samardzija
Wide receiver
Career
- All-Star (2014)
Jeff Samardzija is a pitcher who has played for the San Francisco Giants and Chicago Cubs. He was drafted by the Cubs in the 4th round of the 2006 MLB draft.
He made his MLB debut with the Cubs in 2008. He had a successful MLB career, pitching for the Cubs, Oakland Athletics, and San Francisco Giants. In 2018, he signed with the Giants.
He is 38 years old and has retired from baseball. He is currently a baseball analyst for ESPN. Jeff Samardzija is a pitcher for the San Francisco Giants; he has been with the team since 2016.
Samardzija has a win-loss record of 80-106 with an earned run average of 4.15. He has struck out 1,449 batters in his career. Samardzija has led the Giants to the playoffs twice, but they have been eliminated both times. Jeff Samardzija is a free agent at the end of the 2020 season.
27. Ken MacAfee
Tight end
Career
- High school: Brockton (MA)
- College: Notre Dame
- NFL Draft: 1978 / Round: 1 / Pick: 7
- San Francisco 49ers (1978–1979)
- National champion (1977), Walter Camp Award (1977), Knute Rockne Memorial Trophy (1977), 3× First-team All-American (1975–1977)
- Receptions: 46, Receiving yards: 471, Touchdowns: 5
- Receptions: 46
- Receiving yards: 471
- Touchdowns: 5
- College Football Hall of Fame
Ken MacAfee was a tight end for the San Francisco 49ers from 1978 to 1979. He was drafted by the team in the 1st round of the 1978 NFL Draft. He was a part of the 49ers team that made it to the Super Bowl in 1978.
He was also a part of the 49ers team that made it to the Super Bowl in 1981. He retired from the NFL in 1981. He is now a coach for the Seattle Seahawks. He is known for his hard work and determination. He has two sons, both of which play football.
He is a respected member of the coaching community. Ken MacAfee was one of the most productive wide receivers in college football history.
He was a three-time first-team All-American and a national champion with the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. MacAfee was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the fifth round of the 1977 NFL Draft.
He spent four seasons with the 49ers before being traded to the Minnesota Vikings in 1981. MacAfee finished his career with the Dallas Cowboys in 1984.
He retired with 46 receptions for 471 yards and five touchdowns. MacAfee was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1990. MacAfee is the father of current NFL wide receiver Kenbrell Thompkins. MacAfee currently resides in Southern California.
28. Angelo Bertelli
Quarterback
Career
- High school: Springfield (MA) Cathedral
- College: Notre Dame (1941–1943)
- NFL Draft: 1944 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1
- Los Angeles Dons (1946), Chicago Rockets (1947–1948)
- National champion (1943), Heisman Trophy (1943), Sporting News Player of the Year (1943), Consensus All-American (1943)
- TD–INT: 8–19, Yards: 972, Passer rating: 41.1
- TD–INT: 8–19
- Yards: 972
- Passer rating: 41.1
- College Football Hall of Fame
Angelo Bertelli was a quarterback in the NFL for over 20 years. He played for the Los Angeles Dons, Chicago Rockets, and Detroit Lions. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1978.
Bertelli was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 1999 and died a year later. Bertelli is considered one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. He is a significant figure in the history of the NFL and is remembered as a gentleman and class act.
Bertelli's death was a significant loss to the NFL and the sports world. Angelo Bertelli is an important figure in American football and his death will be remembered. Bertelli was a talented quarterback and will be remembered for his time in the NFL. Angelo Bertelli was one of the most decorated players in NCAA history.
He was a three-time All-American and a two-time National Champion. He was also a Heisman Trophy finalist and a Sporting News Player of the Year. Bertelli was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1978.
29. Chris Zorich
Career
- High school: Chicago Vocational, (Chicago, Illinois)
- College: Notre Dame
- NFL Draft: 1991 / Round: 2 / Pick: 49
- UPI Lineman of the Year (1989), 2× Consensus All-American (1989, 1990), Lombardi Award (1990), Orange Bowl Defensive MVP (1991), Pro Bowl alternate (1993)
- Tackles: 211, Sacks: 16.5
- Tackles: 211
- Sacks: 16.5
- College Football Hall of Fame
Chris Zorich was a standout defensive tackle at Notre Dame and was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the 1991 NFL Draft. He played for the Bears for six seasons before joining the Washington Redskins in 1997.
Chris Zorich is best known for his time with the Bears, where he was a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro. He was also named to the NFL's All-Decade Team for the 1990s. Chris Zorich announced his retirement from the NFL in 2006.
He now works as a commentator for Fox Sports and is also a regular panelist on NFL Network's Fantasy Football Live. Chris Zorich was born on March 13, 1969, in Chicago, Illinois. He is married and has two children. Chris Zorich was one of the best defensive linemen in the NFL during the 1990s.
He was a two-time consensus All-American and was named Lombardi Award winner in 1990. Zorich recorded 211 tackles, 16.5 sacks, and two Pro Bowl appearances.
He retired from the NFL in 2000 after playing with the Chicago Bears and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009. 3. Chris Zorich was born on September 5, 1969, in Chicago, Illinois.
30. Bob Golic
Career
- High school: Cleveland (OH) St. Joseph
- College: Notre Dame
- NFL Draft: 1979 / Round: 2 / Pick: 52
- New England Patriots (1979–1981), Cleveland Browns (1982–1988), Los Angeles Raiders (1989–1992)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1985, 1986), 3× Pro Bowl (1985–1987), Cleveland Browns Legends, National champion (1977), Unanimous All-American (1978)
- Sacks: 22.5, Games: 187, Interceptions: 1
- Sacks: 22.5
- Games: 187
- Interceptions: 1
Bob Golic was drafted in 1979 by the New England Patriots. He played for the Patriots for three seasons before being traded to the Cleveland Browns in 1982.
Golic was a two-time Pro Bowler with the Browns and helped the team make the playoffs twice. Golic was traded to the Miami Dolphins in 1988 and played for them for four seasons.
Golic finished his career with the Philadelphia Eagles in 1992. Bob Golic is a two-time Super Bowl champion and was inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame in 2005 and the Cleveland Browns Hall of Fame in 2009.
Golic is currently a television analyst for the Patriots and Browns. Bob Golic was born on October 26, 1957, in Cleveland, Ohio. He is married and has three children. In his spare time, Bob Golic enjoys hunting, fishing, and golfing.
31. Tony Rice
Career
- Position(s): Quarterback
- College: Notre Dame
- Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (1989), All-American (1989)
Tony Rice is a successful American football quarterback who played for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. He won the Heisman Trophy in 1991 and was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the first round of the 1992 NFL Draft.
He played for the 49ers for eleven seasons and led them to two Super Bowls. Rice was born in Woodruff, South Carolina, on September 5, 1967. He attended Notre Dame where he played quarterback for the Fighting Irish. In 1991, he won the Heisman Trophy, becoming the first Notre Dame player to win the award.
Rice was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the first round of the 1992 NFL Draft. He played for the 49ers for eleven seasons, winning two Super Bowls.
He retired in 2002 Rice has since worked as a commentator for NFL games, as well as a football analyst for various television networks. He has also written a book about his life and career. Rice is married to Lizzie and has two children. He lives in Southern California.
32. Bob Crable
Career
- High school: Archbishop Moeller, (Cincinnati, Ohio)
- College: Notre Dame
- NFL Draft: 1982 / Round: 1 / Pick: 23
- New York Jets (1982–1988)
- 2× Consensus All-American (1980, 1981)
- Games played: 66, Games started: 43, Quarterback sacks: 10
- Games played: 66
- Games started: 43
- Quarterback sacks: 10
- College Football Hall of Fame
Bob Crable was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the 1982 NFL Draft. He played for the team for six seasons before retiring in 1990. In 1988, he was named to the Associated Press All-Pro Second Team.
In 1990, he was named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Bob Crable was a linebacker and played on the defensive side of the ball. He is known for his strong defense and his ability to make big plays. Bob Crable is also known for his hard hitting and his intimidation of opposing players.
He is a two time Super Bowl Champion and a member of the NFL's 50th Anniversary team. Bob Crable is currently a commentator for the NFL on Fox.
He is also a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Contributor's Circle. Bob Crable was a two-time consensus All-American at the University of Michigan.
He was drafted by the New York Jets in the first round of the 1982 NFL Draft. He was a member of the Jets team that won the 1986 Super Bowl. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1998. He is a member of the Jets Hall of Fame. He died in 2017 at the age of 73.
33. Jaylon Smith
Linebacker
Career
- High school: Bishop Luers, (Fort Wayne, Indiana)
- College: Notre Dame
- NFL Draft: 2016 / Round: 2 / Pick: 34
- Dallas Cowboys (2016–2021), Green Bay Packers (2021), New York Giants (2021–present)
- Roster status: Active
- Pro Bowl (2019), 2× First-team All-Independent (2014, 2015), Consensus All-American (2015), Butkus Award (college) (2015), Second-team All-American (2014), Independent DPOY (2014)
- Total tackles: 624, Sacks: 11.0, Forced fumbles: 6, Fumble recoveries: 6, Interceptions: 2, Pass deflections: 21, Defensive touchdowns: 1
- Total tackles: 624
- Sacks: 11.0
- Forced fumbles: 6
- Fumble recoveries: 6
- Interceptions: 2
- Pass deflections: 21
- Defensive touchdowns: 1
Smith is a versatile middle linebacker who was a first-round pick of the Dallas Cowboys in the 2016 NFL Draft. Smith has had a decorated career in the NFL, playing for the Cowboys, Green Bay Packers, and New York Giants.
Smith is a consistent performer who has made a significant impact on the field. Smith is a hard runner and superb tackler who can make an impact in any situation. Smith is a leader on the field and a vocal member of his team.
Smith is a versatile player whose skills can be used in any role on the field. Smith is a high-character player who is respected by his teammates and coaches. Smith is a future Hall of Famer who is poised to continue his success in the NFL.
Smith is a versatile and talented middle linebacker who is sure to continue to make a significant impact on the field for years to come.
Also Played For: nfl preseason
34. Allen Pinkett
Running back
Career
- Position(s): Running back
- Height: 5 ft 9 in (175 cm)
- Weight: 192 lb (87 kg)
- College: Notre Dame
- NFL draft 1986 / Round: 3 / Pick 61
Allen Pinkett was born on January 25, 1964 in Washington, D.C. He played running back for the Cleveland Browns and the Indianapolis Colts in the NFL. He has also played for the Baltimore Ravens, the Philadelphia Eagles, and the Minnesota Vikings.
Allen Pinkett is a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro. He retired from the NFL in 1999. Allen Pinkett currently works as an NFL analyst for ESPN. He has two children, a daughter and a son. Allen Pinkett is a major advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness.
Allen Pinkett was a three-time All-American at Notre Dame and was drafted in the third round of the 1986 NFL draft. He played for the Houston Oilers and the New Orleans Saints, and was a part of two Super Bowl-winning teams. Pinkett is currently the linebackers coach for the Green Bay Packers.
In 2003, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. He has two children and is married to his wife, Tammi. Allen Pinkett is a highly successful coach and has been involved in the NFL for over 25 years. He is known for his coaching skills and is highly respected within the football community.
Allen Pinkett is a great role model for young athletes and has helped countless players achieve their dreams. He is a very passionate person and is always looking to help others.
35. Manti Te'o
Linebacker
Career
- High school: Punahou School, (Honolulu, Hawaii)
- College: Notre Dame (2009–2012)
- NFL Draft: 2013 / Round: 2 / Pick: 38
- San Diego Chargers (2013–2016), New Orleans Saints (2017–2019), Chicago Bears (2020)
- Maxwell Award (2012), Lott Trophy (2012), Chuck Bednarik Award (2012), Walter Camp Award (2012), Bronko Nagurski Trophy (2012), Butkus Award (college) (2012), Lombardi Award (2012), Unanimous All-American (2012)
- Total tackles: 307, Sacks: 1.5, Forced fumbles: 1, Fumble recoveries: 1, Interceptions: 2
- Total tackles: 307
- Sacks: 1.5
- Forced fumbles: 1
- Fumble recoveries: 1
- Interceptions: 2
Manti Te'o was born in Laie, Hawaii in 1991. After playing college football at Notre Dame, he was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft.
Te'o spent three seasons with the Chargers before being traded to the New Orleans Saints in 2017. In 2019, he was traded to the Chicago Bears. Te'o has made a name for himself as one of the best linebackers in the NFL.
He has won two Super Bowls with the Saints and Bears, and is currently a member of the Bears. Manti Te'o is widely considered to be one of the most talented football players of his generation. He is married to Lennay Kekua, and the couple has one child.
Manti Te'o is a devout Christian and has spoken about his faith often. Te'o is a role model to many young people, and his story has touched many people across the world.
36. Kyle Hamilton
Safety
Career
- High school: Marist, (Brookhaven, Georgia)
- College: Notre Dame (2019–2021)
- NFL Draft: 2022 / Round: 1 / Pick: 14
- Baltimore Ravens (2022–present)
- Roster status: Active
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2022), Consensus All-American (2021), First-team All-ACC (2020)
- Total tackles: 62, Sacks: 2.0, Forced fumbles: 1, Fumble recoveries: 0, Interceptions: 0
- Total tackles: 62
- Sacks: 2.0
- Forced fumbles: 1
- Fumble recoveries: 0
- Interceptions: 0
Kyle Hamilton was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Hamilton played safety for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish from 2019-2021.
Hamilton has spent time with the Baltimore Ravens, the New York Giants, and the Arizona Cardinals in his career. Hamilton is known for his strong play on the defensive side of the football.
Hamilton is an up-and-coming safety in the NFL who is expected to continue developing in the years to come. Kyle Hamilton is a21-year-old safety from Crete, Greece who is looking to make an impact on the NFL stage.
Kyle Hamilton was a consensus All-American in 2021 and a first-team All-ACC selection in 2020. Hamilton was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Hamilton has 62 tackles and 2.0 sacks in 18 NFL games.
Hamilton is a versatile defender who can play both outside linebacker and defensive end. Hamilton has the potential to be a long-term starter in the NFL.
37. Jim Martin
Career
- High school: East Technical (OH)
- College: Notre Dame
- NFL Draft: 1950 / Round: 2 / Pick: 26
- 4× NFL champion (1950, 1952, 1953, 1957), NFL Comeback Player of the Year (1963), Pro Bowl (1961), 3× National champion (1946, 1947, 1949), First-team All-American (1949)
- Field goals made: 92, Field goal %: 47.9, Extra points: 158, Interceptions: 6
- Field goals made: 92
- Field goal %: 47.9
- Extra points: 158
- Interceptions: 6
- College Football Hall of Fame
Jim Martin was a standout guard and linebacker at Notre Dame, and he was selected in the 1950 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns. Martin played with the Browns for three seasons, and he was the team's placekicker for two of them.
He was also a member of the Browns' 1951 and 1952 championship teams. After his NFL career ended, Martin played for the San Diego Chargers and the Los Angeles Rams.
He retired from professional football in 1966. Martin later served as the head football coach at Bishop O'Dowd High School in Oakland, California.
He passed away in 2002 at the age of 78. Martin was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2003. He was also named to the College Football Hall of Fame in 2004.
He was an assistant coach on the Denver Broncos in the 1970s and 80s. He is best known as the coach of the Detroit Lions during the 1960s, when they became the first team in NFL history to win four championships.
He was also awarded the NFL Comeback Player of the Year in 1963. He retired from coaching in 1992 after a long and successful career.
38. Bill Fischer
Career
- High school: Chicago (IL) Lane Tech
- College: Notre Dame
- NFL Draft: 1949 / Round: 1 / Pick: 10
- 3× Pro Bowl (1950–1952), 2× College football national champion (1946–1947), 2× Consensus All-American (1947–1948), Outland Trophy (1948)
- College Football Hall of Fame
Fischer was a tackle, guard and defensive tackle in the NFL. He played for the Chicago Cardinals from 1949 to 1953. Fischer was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1978.
Fischer died in 2017 at the age of 89. Fischer was a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time college football national champion at Notre Dame. He was consensus All-American in 1948 and the Outland Trophy recipient in 1948.
Fischer played in the NFL for the Cleveland Browns (1950-1952) and the Green Bay Packers (1953-1955). Fischer was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1983. Fischer was a television analyst for Notre Dame football games from 1988 to 2007.
39. Aaron Taylor
Career
- High school: De La Salle, (Concord, California)
- College: Notre Dame
- NFL Draft: 1994 / Round: 1 / Pick: 16
- Green Bay Packers (1994–1997), San Diego Chargers (1998–1999)
- Super Bowl champion (XXXI), 2× Consensus All-American (1992, 1993), Lombardi Award (1993), Jim Parker Award (1993)
- Games played: 75, Games started: 75, Fumbles recovered: 4
- Games played: 75
- Games started: 75
- Fumbles recovered: 4
- College Football Hall of Fame
Aaron Taylor was a standout guard at De La Salle High School in Concord, California. He was a two-time All-American and was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the first round of the 1994 NFL Draft.
Taylor saw limited playing time with the Packers and was traded to the Miami Dolphins in 1997. He played for the Dolphins for three seasons and then spent a year with the San Francisco 49ers. Taylor retired from professional football in 2001.
He has since worked as a football analyst for ESPN and Fox. He also served as the offensive line coach for the Oregon State Beavers from 2006 to 2008. Taylor is currently the offensive line coach for the Utah State Aggies. Aaron Taylor was a consensus All-American in both 1992 and 1993.
He won the Jim Parker Award in 1993 and was a Lombardi Award finalist in 1992. Taylor was drafted by the Chargers in the first round of the 1994 draft. He played for the Chargers from 1998-1999. He was a member of the Chargers' Super Bowl victory in XXXI. Taylor played in the NFL for 14 seasons.
He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2013. He is currently a television analyst for the Chargers. Taylor is considered to be one of the best safeties in NFL history.
40. Jim Lynch
Career
- High school: Lima Central Catholic (Lima, Ohio)
- College: Notre Dame
- NFL Draft: 1967 / Round: 2 / Pick: 47
- Kansas City Chiefs (1967–1977)
- Super Bowl champion (IV), 2× Second-team All-AFL (1968, 1969), AFL All-Star (1968), Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame, FBS national champion (1966), Maxwell Award (1966), Unanimous All-American (1966)
- Interceptions: 17, Fumbles recovered: 14, Defensive touchdowns: 1
- Interceptions: 17
- Fumbles recovered: 14
- Defensive touchdowns: 1
- Player stats at PFR
- College Football Hall of Fame
Jim Lynch was a linebacker for the Kansas City Chiefs from 1967-1977. He was a two-time All-Pro and was named to the NFL's 75th Anniversary All-Time Team.
Lynch was born in Lima, Ohio in 1945 and attended Lima Central Catholic High School. He played college football at Notre Dame and was drafted in the second round of the 1967 NFL Draft.
Lynch played for the Kansas City Chiefs from 1967-1977 and was a two-time All-Pro. He was also named to the NFL's 75th Anniversary All-Time Team. Lynch retired from the NFL in 1977 and later lived in Kansas City.
He died on July 21, 2022 at the age of 76. He was a two-time All-American and a Super Bowl champion with the Kansas City Chiefs. He was also a Maxwell Award winner and a unanimous All-American. Lynch was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1986.
After playing football at the University of Michigan, Lynch was drafted by the Chiefs in the first round of the 1966 NFL Draft. Lynch played 13 seasons in the NFL, including nine with the Chiefs. He retired in 1978 after a brief stint with the Houston Oilers. Lynch was born in Lansing, Michigan, in 1937.
He died in 2003 at the age of 64. Lynch was a pioneer in the AFL and was one of the first players to become an All-Star and a champion in both the NFL and AFL.
41. John Huarte
Quarterback
Career
- High school: Mater Dei, (Santa Ana, California)
- College: Notre Dame
- NFL Draft: 1965 / Round: 6 / Pick: 76
- AFL Draft: 1965 / Round: 2 / Pick: 12[1]
- New York Jets (1965), Boston Patriots (1966–1967), Philadelphia Eagles (1968), Kansas City Chiefs (1969–1971), Chicago Bears (1972), Memphis Southmen (1974–1975)
- Super Bowl champion (IV), Heisman Trophy (1964), UPI Player of the Year (1964), Consensus All-American (1964)
- College Football Hall of Fame
John Huarte was born in Southern California in 1944. He attended Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, California and played college football at Notre Dame.
Huarte was drafted by the New York Jets in the 1965 NFL Draft and played for the team for two seasons. He then joined the Boston Patriots and played for them for two seasons.
Huarte finished his career with the San Diego Chargers, where he played from 1969 to 1971. He retired from football in 1971. John Huarte is currently a broadcaster for NFL Network.
He has two sons and two daughters. John Huarte was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2014. Huarte was a two-time consensus All-American and UPI Player of the Year at Memphis.
Huarte was the first player in NCAA history to rush for 2,000 yards in two consecutive seasons. Huarte was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1986.
42. Todd Lyght
Career
- High school: Flint (MI) Powers Catholic
- College: Notre Dame
- NFL Draft: 1991 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5
- Super Bowl Champion (XXXIV), Second-Team All-Pro (1999), Pro Bowl (1999), 2× Consensus All-American (1989, 1990)
- Interceptions: 37, INT yards: 462, Touchdowns: 4
- Interceptions: 37
- INT yards: 462
- Touchdowns: 4
Todd Lyght played cornerback for the Los Angeles Rams and Detroit Lions from 1991-2000. Lyght was drafted by the Rams in the first round in 1991 and played there until 2000.
He then played for the Lions from 2001-2002. Lyght then became a defensive backs coach with the Rams from 2003-2015. He was hired by the Atlanta Falcons in 2016 and coached them until he was fired in October of 2018.
Todd Lyght is now a free agent and is looking for a new team. Lyght was born in Kwajalein, Marshall Islands in 1969. He attended Flint Powers Catholic High School. Lyght played college football at Notre Dame. Lyght was a member of the Philadelphia Eagles' coaching staff in 2013-2014.
Lyght was a member of the Notre Dame defense from 2015-2019. Lyght has more interceptions than any other player in Notre Dame history. Lyght was a 2x consensus All-American.
Lyght was also a 2x First Team All Big East selection. Lyght was a finalist for the Thorpe Award in 1998. Lyght was drafted in the 2nd round of the 1990 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles. Lyght played for the Eagles from 1990-1998. Lyght was a member of the Eagles' Super Bowl Championship team in 1994.
Also Played For: st louis rams
43. Mike Stonebreaker
Career
- High school: John Curtis Christian, (River Ridge, Louisiana)
- College: Notre Dame
- NFL Draft: 1991 / Round: 9 / Pick: 245
- Chicago Bears (1991), New Orleans Saints (1994), Frankfurt Galaxy (1995)
- First-team All-World League (1995), World Bowl champion (III), Consensus All-American (1988, 1990)
Mike Stonebreaker is a linebacker who played for the Chicago Bears from 1991-1993. Stonebreaker had a successful career in the NFL, recording over 100 tackles in three seasons.
He later played for the Baltimore Ravens, where he retired in 2002. Stonebreaker is a member of the Chicago Bears Hall of Fame and the Baltimore Ravens Hall of Fame. He currently works as a radio analyst for the Bears.
Stonebreaker was a dominant defensive lineman for the New Orleans Saints from 1994-1996. He was a first-team All-World League player in 1995 and helped the Saints reach the World Bowl. Stonebreaker was also a consensus All-American in 1988 and 1990.
He was a dominant player at the collegiate level, and helped lead the Frankfurt Galaxy to a World Bowl championship in 1995. Stonebreaker is now a member of the Saints' coaching staff.
He is responsible for coaching the defensive line. Stonebreaker has a wealth of NFL experience, and is a valuable asset to the Saints' coaching staff.
44. Frank Carideo
Frank Carideo was one of the most successful and respected quarterbacks in college football history. He played for Notre Dame from 1928 to 1930 and then spent three seasons at Missouri before moving on to Purdue in 1931.
Carideo was an All-American and played in the 1932 Rose Bowl against Texas. He led Purdue to a conference championship in 1934 and was inducted into the Purdue Hall of Fame in 1958.
Carideo began his coaching career at Purdue in 1931 as an assistant under Elmer Layden.
He later served as head coach at Mississippi State from 1935 to 1938. Carideo was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1970 and the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame in 1998.
He died in 1992 at the age of 83. Frank Carideo played basketball and football at Mississippi State before coaching at Iowa.
Carideo's coaching record at Iowa was 2–23–2 in football and 43–39 in basketball. Carideo was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1954. Carideo died in 1978.
45. Luther Bradley
Career
- Position(s): Cornerback
- College: Notre Dame
- High school: Muncie Northside (IN)
- NFL draft 1978 / Round: 1 / Pick 11
Luther Bradley was a standout cornerback at Notre Dame and was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the 1977 NFL Draft. Bradley played eight seasons with the Steelers and was a two-time Pro Bowler (1978 and 1979).
Bradley was traded to the Los Angeles Raiders in 1984 and played with the team until 1990. He then signed with the Cleveland Browns and played with the team until 1996. Bradley then played with the Carolina Panthers from 1997 until 2002.
He retired after the 2002 season. Bradley was inducted into the Notre Dame Hall of Fame in 2003 and the Steelers Hall of Fame in 2007. Bradley was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2009 and underwent surgery to remove the cancer. He is currently cancer free.
Bradley is married to the former Linda Sheppard and has two children, daughter Brooke and son Bradley Jr.
46. Jim Crowley
Career
- 1918–1921: Green Bay East High School
- 1922–1924: Notre Dame
- 1925: Waterbury Blues
- 1925: Green Bay Packers
- 1925: Providence Steam Roller
- Position(s): Halfback
- 1926–1927: Georgia (assistant)
- 1929–1932: Michigan State
- 1933–1941: Fordham
- 1942: North Carolina Pre-Flight
- 1947: Chicago Rockets
Crowley was an All-American football player at Notre Dame and was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1925. He played for the Packers for six seasons and was a part of their championship teams in 1929 and 1930.
Crowley was also a successful player in the National Football League (NFL) and played for the Waterbury Blues, Green Bay Packers, Providence Steam Roller, and Cleveland Bulldogs. He retired from professional football in 1936.
After retiring from football, Crowley became a professional coach. He was the head coach of the Packers for two seasons, and he also served as the head coach of the Cleveland Bulldogs and the Philadelphia Eagles.
Crowley was a pioneer in the development of the modern pro football offense and was responsible for the creation of the pro-style offense.
He also served as the head coach of the Packers for two seasons and was the first head coach in NFL history to earn over 100 victories. Crowley was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 1978.
He is also a member of the Packers Hall of Fame and the American Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
Crowley was a highly successful coach and was responsible for the development of many successful players, including Bart Starr, Don Hutson, and Paul Hornung. He is considered one of the greatest coaches in NFL history.
Crowley died in 1986 at the age of 83 after a long and successful career as a football coach. He was a major influence on the development of pro football and is considered one of the greatest coaches in NFL history.
47. Bob Dove
Career
- College: Notre Dame
- NFL Draft: 1943 / Round: 5 / Pick: 40
- As player, Chicago Rockets (1946–1947), Chicago Cardinals (1948–1953), Detroit Lions (1953–1954), , As coach, , Chicago Rockets (1946)
- Pro Bowl (1950), Consensus All-American, 1942
- Receiving yards: 128, Interceptions: 1, Touchdowns: 2
- Receiving yards: 128
- Interceptions: 1
- Touchdowns: 2
- College Football Hall of Fame
Dove played 11 seasons in the NFL, spending the majority of his time with the Chicago Cardinals and Detroit Lions. He was an end in the NFL and is fifth all-time in career sacks.
Dove was drafted by the Chicago Rockets in the 1943 NFL Draft, but did not play for them until 1946. Dove was a four-time All-Pro and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987.
Dove died on April 19, 2006 at the age of 85 after a long illness. Dove was a star player and coach at the University of Michigan. He led the Wolverines to two national championships and three Big Ten championships.
Dove was a consensus All-American in 1942 and was drafted by the Chicago Rockets in the fourth round of the 1946 NFL Draft.
Dove played 12 seasons in the NFL with the Rockets, Baltimore Colts, and Green Bay Packers. Dove was named the NFL Coach of the Year in 1950 and led the Rockets to the Pro Bowl.
Dove was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1978 and the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame in 1978. Dove died in 1988 after a long battle with cancer.
48. Tyler Buchner
Notre Dame Fighting Irish football
Career
- College: , Notre Dame (2021–present)
- Bowl games: , 2022 Gator Bowl (MVP)[1]
- High school: The Bishop's School, (La Jolla, California)
- Gator Bowl MVP (2022)
Tyler Buchner is a sophomore quarterback for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Buchner has started in all 13 games he has played for the Irish, throwing for 2,846 yards and 21 touchdowns.
Buchner was a two-time All-American at North Dakota State. He was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the sixth round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Buchner married his high school sweetheart, Hannah, in December 2018.
Tyler Buchner is a senior cornerback at Notre Dame and was selected as a first-team All-American by the FWAA and Walter Camp Foundation.
Buchner led the Irish with five interceptions and 12 passes defended. He was also a Second-Team All-American by the Sporting News and was a consensus first-team selection.
In addition to his football accomplishments, Buchner is a member of the National Honor Society and the Academic All-American Society. Buchner will play in the Gator Bowl against LSU on New Year's Day.
Buchner is the son of former NFL player and Notre Dame assistant coach Ted Buchner. Tyler Buchner graduated from The Bishop's School in La Jolla, California, in 2020.
He is majoring in communications. Tyler Buchner was a three-time All-State selection in football and was also a two-time All-Conference selection.
49. Heartley Anderson
Career
- 1918–1921: Notre Dame
- 1920–1921: Canton Bulldogs
- 1922–1923: Chicago Bears
- 1923: Cleveland Indians
- 1924–1925: Chicago Bears
- Position(s): Guard
- 1927: Notre Dame (assistant)
- 1928–1929: Saint Louis
- 1930: Notre Dame (line)
- 1931–1933: Notre Dame
- 1934–1936: NC State
- 1937: Michigan (line)
- 1939: Detroit Lions (assistant)
- 1942–1945: Chicago Bears
Heartley Anderson was an NFL Hall of Fame guard who played for the Chicago Bears from 1923 to 1925. After playing college football at Notre Dame, Anderson was drafted by the Chicago Bears in 1918.
He spent the majority of his career with the Bears, but also played for the Canton Bulldogs, Cleveland Indians, and Chicago Cardinals. Anderson was a member of the NFL's All-Decade Team for the 1920s.
He retired from professional football in 1925 and later coached at the high school and college level. Anderson was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 1963. He died in 1978 at the age of 79. Heartley Anderson was an assistant coach at Notre Dame from 1927-1929.
Anderson then served as the head coach of Saint Louis from 1930-1933. He then took over as the head coach of Notre Dame in 1934 and remained in that position until 1936. Anderson then served as the head coach of NC State from 1937-1939. He then served as the head coach of the Detroit Lions from 1939-1942.
Anderson then retired from coaching and entered the coaching ranks as a college assistant from 1942-1945. Anderson was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1974. Anderson died in 1978.
Final Words
The University of Notre Dame is a private Catholic research university located in Notre Dame, Indi
