Notre Dame Football: Top 10 Former Irish in the NFL

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GLENDALE, AZ – DECEMBER 03: Running back Todd Gurley #30 of the Los Angeles Rams ruhses the football alongside center John Sullivan #65 during the NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at the University of Phoenix Stadium on December 3, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona. The Rams defeated the Cardinals 32-16. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

No. 7: John Sullivan

The longest tenured player on this list, Sullivan was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the 6th round in 2008. He won the starting center job in year-two and remained the starter for 6 seasons (2009-2014). During that time, he became one of the best and most respected centers in the NFL and made the All-Pro team in 2012.

Sullivan missed the entire 2015 season with a back injury and was released by the Vikings after the 2016 preseason. He quickly signed a one year deal with the Redskins, but mainly played a reserve role. After the 2016 season, the Rams signed him to a two-year deal, and he started 15 games for Los Angeles in 2017. He is expected to be the starter in 2018.

During his 10-year career, Sullivan has become the consummate pro. For the most part, he has remained durable, and at one point started 48 straight games for the Vikings.

Offensive lineman isn’t the flashiest position on the football field, but Notre Dame has sent many star linemen to the NFL. Although Sullivan was a 6th round pick, he is definitely worthy of his number-seven ranking on this list.

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