Notre Dame Football: 5 freshman who’ll have instant impacts in 2017
By Jacob Wilson
If Notre Dame’s wide receiver corps wasn’t so deep, Young would have been a lock to play this season. However, Kelly had a tough decision on his hands when it came to his decision to have the freshman play.
While the wide receiver group may not be the strongest unit on the roster, they are certainly one of the deepest. Young will likely be behind a plethora of receivers ranging from star junior Equanimeous St. Brown to transfer Freddy Canteen, but will have the opportunity to contribute nicely on special teams.
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Kelly appreciates hard workers as much as any coach in the country, and solid practices and special teams play may help Young creep up the depth chart over the course of the season. Young did not receive any jaw dropping rankings, falling between 80 and 100 on most experts lists, but is very quick and has the speed coaches want from an outside or slot receiver.
It will definitely be an uphill battle for the freshman out of Destrehan High School and there is a good chance he turns special teams production into offensive snaps. His ability to climb the depth chart is still to be seen, but Kelly should find good use for him even if he doesn’t.