Notre Dame Football: Where will Irish prospects land in 2021 NFL Draft?

7th Round Picks / Priority UDFAs

Below includes a list of Irish alumni who are on the fringe of consideration for a 7th Round selection. Even if their names aren’t called on draft night, the opportunity to crack an NFL roster is still there for players who are invited as undrafted free agents. Here are a few names who are likely to fall into one of those two categories.

Ian Book, QB

Quarterback Ian Book is one of the more likely candidates to find himself drafted in the final round of this year’s draft. Despite offering limited upside as a starter, Book’s dedication in the film and weight room will go a long way in regard to how he is perceived by management across the league.

Whether it be backing up a young talent or 10-year veteran, Book will be a valuable asset as a backup in this league for years to come.

Ben Skowronek, WR

While not the crispest route runner coming out of college, wide receiver Ben Skowronek offers enticing potential as a run blocker and receiver with an impressive catch radius. There has been talk about moving him to tight end (we’ve heard this before with Chase Claypool), but he projects best as a run-blocking receiver who can carve out a spot in a reserve role.

Daelin Hayes, EDGE

Daelin Hayes played opposite Ogundeji as a refined pass-rusher in 2020. After starting in previous years, Hayes took a backseat to the Okwara/Kareem show in 2019. Hayes came on strong again in the following season, but his ability to produce at the NFL level is a concern. He will likely be a coveted asset as a UDFA if he isn’t snatched up in the twilight of the draft.

Tommy Kraemer, OG

Tommy Kraemer was brought on as a highly-touted prospect and settled in nicely as a reliable piece along the Irish offensive line. While he may not have measured up entirely to his status as a recruit, Kraemer enjoyed a respectable college career and should have the opportunity to compete for an NFL roster spot at the very least.

Javon McKinley, WR

Javon McKinley, who found himself buried on the Notre Dame depth chart for quite some time, broke out in 2020 with a string of impressive games. However, his inconsistent production was a microcosm of Notre Dame’s passing-game struggles as a whole, and inconsistent route running could play a part in teams passing on him throughout the draft. He may get a chance as a UDFA.