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Notre Dame Recruiting: Freshman Breakdown – Jonathon MacCollister

By Noah Strackbein

Nov 19, 2016; South Bend, IN, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies fullback Steven Peoples (32) runs the ball as Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker James Onwualu (17) and defensive lineman Isaac Rochell (90) defend in the second quarter at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 19, 2016; South Bend, IN, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies fullback Steven Peoples (32) runs the ball as Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker James Onwualu (17) and defensive lineman Isaac Rochell (90) defend in the second quarter at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports /
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Notre Dame football added an elite strong side defensive end to their roster with an incredible upside.

Jonathon MacCollister: Strong-Side DE (Orlando, FL) Bishop Moore Catholic

Jonathon MaCollister was a major steal for Notre Dame. Committing to the Irish on June 17, 2016 over Auburn, Boston College, and others. MacCollister was the 45th ranked defensive end and the 133rd recruit in the state of Florida.

MacCollister didn’t have the best high school career. During his senior season, this defensive end only recorded 15 total tackles and no sacks. But that isn’t what makes MacCollister special. His 6’4, 238 lbs frame is what will make this athlete a freak in South Bend.

Jonathon MacCollister is a freak athletically. Playing wide receiver in high school, MacCollister contains the speed and versatility to run down almost all offensive players. He proved it in high school when he would consistently chase ball carriers down 10 or 15 yards pas the line of scrimmage.

When it comes to his strength, being his size helps a lot. As an end, MacCollister has the ability to hold linemen at the line of scrimmage until the ball carrier arrives, then pull the ball carrier down with one arm.

Must Read: Freshman Breakdown: Dillan Gibbons

When it comes to rushing the passer, MacCollister uses his speed and agility to beat most tackles. He isn’t much of a bull rusher, but his timing of the snap is perfect most of the time which lets him beat offensive linemen off the ball and to the backfield.

Projection

MacCollister has everything a solid defensive end needs. His athleticism may lead to him dropping back as a linebacker, but his speed and versatility will help him become a strong run stopper and coverage man. There’s plenty of defensive talent on this roster moving forward, but with his size and physical traits, MacCollister is primed for a good career in South Bend.

He may need a year or two to develop his game, but once he learns from the coaching staff he’s going to be a great defender for the Irish. If he can learn the linebacker and defensive end position well, he should be able to work his way into Notre Dame’s starting position by the end of his college career.

Next: Freshman Breakdown: Avery Davis

The future is bright for this young man. He has everything you look for in a player. With Mike Elko’s teaching, MacCollister will turn into a complete athlete whether its at the end position or linebacker.

Check out Jonathon MacCollister’s 247 profile, Rivals profile, and Hudl highlights.

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