Five Takeaways From Notre Dame HC Brian Kelly’s Press Conference
By Andrew Hall
Brian Kelly updates who will play and who may not in 2017
Brian Kelly met with the media on Thursday afternoon. As Notre Dame quickly approaches game week, Kelly updated the contingent gathered in the Guglielmino Athletics Complex about Team 129. The embattled Head Coach appeared slightly agitated (video below) while discussing his team.
Alohi Gilman Still Waiting
Brian Kelly announced that the NCAA failed to make a decision on whether Gilman will receive a waiver on a mandatory one-year redshirt. A timetable for the NCAA’s decision remains unclear. Kelly said that Gilman knows the defense and awaits the announcement prepared to play against Temple.
Kevin Stepherson: Suspended or Not Suspended?
Kelly went back and forth on whether or not the much-maligned Wide Receiver received a suspension for the fall. Early in the press conference (video above), the Irish Head Coach claimed that all players were eligible to play. Later, Kelly stated “he could neither confirm nor deny” whether the Stepherson received a suspension after fielding a direct question.
Michael Young Ready To Contribute
Brian Kelly expects Freshman receiver Michael Young to play along with a large cast of Irish wide-outs. During the question on Young, he told reporters that Equanimeous St. Brown stands above the rest of the group as a “great player.” Young fits into the next group of players that possess potential to become great.
Robert Hainsey in the Mix at Right Tackle
Hainsey received the praise of Kelly during a question about Right Tackle Tommy Kraemer. Kelly claimed that Hainsey will “help” at the Right Tackle position. Whether Kelly hinted at a rotation or a simple ‘two-deep’ remains unknown.
No Injuries Except Defensive Tackle Elijah Taylor
The 8th year Head Coach expects all players on the roster stand prepared to play for the Irish if called upon. Junior Defensive Tackle Elijah Taylor is the only exception. Taylor injured his foot during spring practice. The injury required Lisfranc surgery to repair it.