Notre Dame’s pipeline to the NFL is producing more than high-end talent. It’s producing captains.
The Irish’s official social media account noted Friday that seven former Notre Dame players have been named captains for their NFL teams this season, a list that says plenty about the kind of leaders the program sends into the league.
Quenton Nelson headlines the group. The Indianapolis Colts star offensive lineman has now been named captain in six of his eight seasons, adding another mark to a résumé that already includes eight Pro Bowls and three first-team All-Pro selections. He’s pushing himself toward Hall of Fame territory if he keeps stacking elite years like these.
JJ Jansen is on the list again, too. The longtime snapper was selected as a captain for the fourth time and, at 40 years old, is still going strong while holding the Carolina record for most games played for the Panthers.
Three others were named captains for the second time: Jacksonville center Robert Hainsey, Los Angeles Chargers offensive tackle Joe Alt and Los Angeles Rams running back Kyren Williams. Each played a major role for the Irish and has carried that leadership into the pros.
Kyle Hamilton rounds out the group as a first-time captain for the Baltimore Ravens. He recently signed the highest-paid contract at his position in NFL history and is coming off his second first-team All-Pro season.
For Notre Dame, the message is hard to miss: these players aren’t just showing up in the NFL as difference-makers. They’re showing up as leaders, too.
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