Independent Football Teams: Top Seven Players in 2015

Nov 8, 2014; Tempe, AZ, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish defensive lineman Sheldon Day (91) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Sun Devil Stadium. Arizona State defeated Notre Dame 55-31. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Since Jarron Jones was injured earlier this year, Sheldon Day will have a bigger role and responsibility he will have to fill (who himself was injured last season). The 6-2, 286 senior defensive tackle has been strong for Notre Dame in the past, and based on his track record he should have a terrific season in 2015. Coach Kelly expressed optimism in how much Day has improved and has now shown to be a better leader overall.

As a freshman Day totaled 23 tackles and two sacks, where he summed 3.5 tackles for loss and a pass deflection. As a sophomore and junior he improved, although his sack numbers dropped a little (0.5 and 1.0, respectively). He totaled 33 tackles as a sophomore and 40 as a junior, which included 5.5 tackles for loss as a sophomore and 7.5 tackles for loss as a junior, which shows his tremendous ability to make plays in the backfield. He also recovered two fumbles as a junior.

If Day can improve on reaching the quarterback and keep up a high level of disruption in the backfield, then he will end up as one of the top independent players, and maybe even one of the best defensive linemen as well. I expect Day to double his career several sacks this year, to total seven.

Next: Will Fuller