Notre Dame football has four players named to USA TODAY preseason All-American team

Heading into the 2024 college football season, Notre Dame is expect to be one of the top teams in the country.

They carry a No. 7 ranking in both the US LBM Coaches and AP Poll’s, so expectations are high. With that comes some recognition, as four Irish players were named to the USA TODAY Sports preseason All-American team.

It’s fairly obvious to guess who made the list, but where they ended up is the bigger question. Find out below where each of the Notre Dame stars landed on this preseason All-American team.

2nd team returner – Jayden Harrison

The transfer from Marshall had a huge season as a kickoff returner in 2023, totaling 705-yards with two scores. If Harrison can replicate those numbers with the Irish, he’s going to have another monster year as a return specialist.

2nd team cornerback – Benjamin Morrison

You are thinking exactly what I am, why isn’t he on the first team? Morrison has been a star since he stepped foot on campus, and is viewed as a potential 1st-round NFL draft pick. Guess he’ll just have to prove them wrong this fall.

2nd team safety – Xavier Watts

Another slight to a Notre Dame secondary member, the reigning Bronko Nagurski Trophy winner should also be on the 1st team. Like Morrison, Watts is just going to have to prove doubters wrong again.

1st team defensive tackle – Howard Cross III

It’s about time that Cross is getting some recognition, as he’s been the unsung hero for the Irish defense the past few years. His return to South Bend solidified the interior of the defensive line, and we once again expect big things from the senior.

Overview

As mentioned above, having Morrison and Watts on the second team is a bit low. It would have been an easier blow if one or the other was on the first team. Still a great list to be on, as four total members of the Notre Dame squad made it.

It’s hard to say they got this wrong, as it’s clear these are the best four Irish players on the team.