Notre Dame Football: Where will Irish prospects land in 2020 NFL Draft?

Realistically, any one of Cole Kmet, Julian Okwara or Chase Claypool could be the first Irish prospect to hear their names called. However, Kmet may be the safest bet given the common consensus of him as the best tight end in the class. If a team wants a pass rusher or wide receiver, there are quite a few places to look. If a team wants a tight end, they’re likely taking Kmet.

Given Notre Dame’s propensity for developing tight ends, it was far from a given that Kmet would earn much playing time in his first two seasons considering the names above him on the depth chart. Regardless, Kmet waited his turn and put up 515 yards and six touchdowns in his junior season. While declaring for the 2020 NFL Draft wasn’t a given, Kmet probably made the right choice given the current tight end class.

With Brock Wright handling the majority of blocking duties at tight end, it was never a secret that Kmet was more inclined as a receiver. However, the NFL often demands all-around effectiveness from its athletes, so Kmet will have to improve in the trenches regardless of where he goes. Kmet wasn’t asked to block much at Notre Dame, but that might change as he progresses to the NFL.

With Eric Ebron gone and Jack Doyle set to turn 30 this May, the Indianapolis Colts should be in the market for a new tight end. It never hurts to give Philip Rivers more weapons, and the Colts have displayed an affinity for receiving tight ends. The Colts have two second round picks, but other positions need to be addressed prior to tight end. The Colts may roll the dice and hope Kmet is around by pick No. 44.