Notre Dame Football: 4 Freshmen the Irish Can Build Around

While constructing his base 3-4 defensive scheme, Notre Dame defensive coordinator Bob Diaco will search for athletic, rangy linebackers who possess the ability to both effectively stop the run and drop into pass coverage

And, boy, did he receive a crown jewel in Jaylon Smith.

Tabbed as a 5-star prospect, per 247sports.com, the 6'3", 218-pound linebacker will have his presence felt from the start, as witnessed by his blazing time of 4.44 seconds in the 40-yard dash.

Smith, who projects as an outside linebacker for the Irish, could potentially earn a starting gig next season based on Brian Kelly's remarks from his national signing day press conference last Wednesday.

"If Danny Spond is [among] the best 11, he?s playing. If Jaylon Smith is [among] the best 11, he?s playing.?? (h/t SunTimes.com)

Smith doesn't seem to have even a single doubt that he'll be a starter when the Irish begin their 2013 season against Temple on Aug. 31. His confidence was evident during a national signing day press conference at Fort Wayne (Ind.) Bishop Luers High School.

??I will be among the best 11. It?s all confidence and work ethic. It?s not just about being high-caliber in high school. You have to show up when you get to college.?? (h/t SunTimes.com)

Whether Smith earns a starting gig is irrelevant; he's the type of rare talent who will have his name called early and often as a freshman.

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1524274-notre-dame-football-4-freshmen-the-irish-can-build-around

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