Notre Dame Football: Projected pre-spring game 2018 depth chart
By Jacob Wilson
Defensive Line
Starting tackles: Jonathan Bonner, Jerry Tillery
Backups: Kurt Hinish, Myron-Tagovailoa-Amosa
Following the conclusion of the 2017 season, it seemed as if the Irish would be losing two key components of their defensive line, just when it appeared that the unit was making strides. However, both Jonathan Bonner, a fifth-year senior, and Jerry Tillery, a senior as well, opted to return and play one more season in Notre Dame uniforms.
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Bonner and Tillery, both of whom will increase their versatility and put in work at the three-technique, combined for 86 total tackles and 6.5 sacks over the course of 2017. With the possibility of Bonner playing some defensive end this season, look for sophomores Kurt Hinish and Myron Tagovailoa-Amosa to see extended playing time at nose tackle or in backup roles.
Starting ends: Daelin Hayes, Khalid Kareem
Backups: Julian Okwara, Adetokunbo Ogundeji
Despite the departure of Jay Hayes to Oklahoma, the Irish are still in good hands on both ends of the defensive line considering Hayes’ playing time was expected to decrease regardless. With Daelin Hayes primed for another jump and Khalid Kareem just getting started, look for teams to respect the Irish on the outside, allowing even more room for Bonner and Tillery to work with inside.
In terms of production, we have a pretty large sample size from Daelin. Over his last two years with the Irish, Hayes has recorded 42 total tackles and three sacks, and has been involved in three fumbles. Junior Julian Okwara will likely push for starting time while classmate Adetokunbo Ogundeji operates in a more traditional backup role.