Notre Dame Football: How can Irish draft prospects improve their stock?
By Andrew Hall
Adetokunbo Ogundeji – Defensive End – Graduate Student
The graduate student from West Bloomfield, Michigan has developed into a bona fide Power Five starter over the last four seasons. Originally, Ogundeji committed to PJ Fleck and Western Michigan. Fleck and his staff hoped Ogundeji would remain a secret but eventually major programs came calling.
Notre Dame landed Ogundeji hoping to eventually develop him into a solid contributor. By his Junior season, Ogundeji began to contribute weekly. In 2019, he recorded 34 tackles, 7.0 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, 5 Quarterback hurries, 3 forced fumbles and one fumble recovery. According to Pro Football Focus, Ogundeji graded out as the second best defender on the Notre Dame football team.
All indications point to a player who is ascending as a pro prospect. In 2020, Ogundeji hopes to add more production with more starting time. If he adds more to his already impressive stat line, Ogundeji may be more highly sought after than fellow Graduate Student Daelin Hayes. According to NFL Draft analyst Scott Wright:
"He was in the backfield all the time and wreaking havoc along that defensive line. He looks like a good athlete, too. He’s got good speed off the edge. Really intriguing. Couldn’t help but notice him. He was borderline taking over the game at one or two points."
When all is said and done, Ogundeji might outpace many of fellow class of 2016 recruits who were ranked higher.
What can Ogundeji do to improve: Ogundeji simply needs to stay on his current trajectory. If he increases productivity, NFL general managers might see Ogundeji as a player who will continue to get better. He has completely transformed his body during his four years in South Bend. Ogundeji will likely test very well and could become a late riser on many boards.
Projection: 4th Round
High-Low Range: 3rd Round to 5th Round