Notre Dame football is still Tight End U and that is going to continue during the 2024 season

Going into the 2023 season, the tight end position for Notre Dame was a bit of a question. It wasn’t because there was a lack of talent, or even that people didn’t think the position would be a strength. But after you lose a player like Michael Mayer, there is a simple question for just how good the position can be after that loss.

The even bigger question was who the top tight end would end up being. Early on in the season, it appeared that it might be Holden Staes, especially with Mitchell Evans being banged up heading into the season. Then the Ohio State game happened. From that content, Evans became the unquestioned top tight end on the roster during the time he was healthy.

The 6-5.5, 266-pound pass catcher ended the year with 29 receptions for 422 yards and one touchdown. He did that in just eight games played, becoming one of the more valuable and productive tight ends in college football. Evans come in as the No. 5 ranked Irish player returning heading into the season.

While Evans is still dealing with his recovery from an MCL injury last season, there is no questioning his importance or role for this team when he returns. Not only is he one of the best tight ends in the country, Evans is also one of the more experienced offensive players that Notre Dame has. His leadership will be a huge bonus heading into the fall.

From an NFL Draft perspective, Evans is also well liked by evaluators. He currently holds a lot of early Day Three grades, but that stock should rise quickly with another productive season. The bigger question around Evans is going to be his durability. If he can answer those concerns, you are going to be seeing No. 88 catching passes on the NFL level for the foreseeable future.

Another important thing for Evans is that Notre Dame should be able to help cut down on his usage a bit with how deep their tight end room is, instead being able to focus on his efficiency. Eli Raridon and Cooper Flanagan will be counted upon a lot this season, illustrating again how deep that room truly is.

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