Notre Dame Football: Post-spring 2-deep depth chart projections for 2020

Receivers/Tight End

Starting wide receivers: Braden Lenzy, Javon McKinley, Lawrence Keys III
Backups: Kevin Austin Jr., Ben Skowronek, Joe Wilkins

With the losses of standout Chase Claypool and the ever-reliable Chris Finke, Notre Dame’s 2018 recruiting class is finally ready to make some noise at wide receiver. Braden Lenzy, who may remind fans of former star wide receiver Will Fuller, combined for 454 yards and four touchdowns last season. His big play ability is unique and certainly something offensive coordinator Tommy Rees will look to take advantage of in 2020.

Lawrence Keys III makes a whole lot of sense to take over in Finke’s absence, but there will likely be a battle for snaps at the No. 2 spot. The talent is there for Kevin Austin Jr., but his shaky relationship with head coach Brian Kelly could impact the coaching staff’s decision between him and Javon McKinley. Junior Joe Wilkins and graduate transfer Ben Skowronek would be the first ones to see extra snaps in the case of injury.

Starting tight end: Tommy Tremble
Backup: Brock Wright, George Takacs

Wide receiver isn’t the only pass-catching position that has suffered losses for the Irish. Cole Kmet, Notre Dame’s highest 2020 draft selection, is the latest Irish receiver that will require replacing. Junior Tommy Tremble is the most likely choice given his abilities as a receiver, but senior Brock Wright may see just as much time, albeit as a blocker.

Although he logged only 16 receptions in 2020, Tremble looked impressive during his time on the field, turning those receptions into 183 yards and four touchdowns. Brock Wright was equally as active in the run game, making George Takacs the most likely substitute should either of these two go down. Don’t be surprised to see true freshman Michael Mayer make his own push as well.