Notre Dame Football: Gunner Kiel and Other Freshmen You Must Keep Your Eye on

Notre Dame's spring football has begun, and things are starting to get in full swing as we near the 83rd annual Blue-Gold Spring Football Game, which will take place on April 21

Here's a look at three you should keep your eye on as spring practices progress and we closer to the regular season.


Gunner Kiel, QB

Kiel may have committed to and decommitted from about 17 schools, but he eventually found a home in South Bend. During the Spring Game, he'll finally get to show everyone what all the fuss was about.

You name a trait, Kiel has it.

Size, check. Ridiculous arm strength, check. Stunning accuracy, check. Even some deceptive athleticism, check and check. 

If there was only one reason to watch the spring game, it would be Gunner Kiel. He has a good chance to start right away in South Bend, and this will be the first chance to catch a glimpse. 


KeiVarae Russell, RB

Russell still doesn't have the necessary bulk (6'0", 175 pounds) to compete at this level, and he won't blow you away with his speed. But he's still fun to watch and should be making an impact very soon in South Bend.

The Irish went all the way to Washington to get him, so it's clear they like him too.

Russell isn't overly-fast, but he is quick between the tackles and elusive with his cuts. Despite not being able to run away from most defensive backs, he is going to be very good at making them miss both in traffic and in the open field.

Throw in his pass-catching ability (he played both running back and wide receiver in high school), and you have someone who will make some noise in the coming weeks.


Davonte Neal, WR

Neal's size (5'10", 175 pounds) may prevent him from being an every-down receiver for now, but his big-play ability is unmatched. 

The Scottsdale native runs a 4.47 40, and is just as quick with his cuts as he is going straight downfield. He's a candidate to return kicks right away for the Irish, and even if he doesn't, they will find a way to get him on the field immediately.

Whether it is via bubble screens or short, quick routes, the Irish will get the ball in Neal's hands, and he is going to turn in some big plays. He's too explosive to ignore.