Notre Dame Football: Ranking 2020’s most impactful players 25-21

25. Kurt Hinish (Nose Tackle)

Best Ranking: 19

Worst Ranking: Unranked

Kurt Hinish, a three-star prospect out of Pittsburgh, was one of the most underrated players in Notre Dame’s 2017 recruiting class. Due to some injuries and a lack of quality depth on the roster that year, he had an opportunity to see the field right away.

Hinish and fellow classmate Myron Tagovailoa-Amosa stepped into significant roles as true freshmen in 2017, and both players performed admirably. Hinish finished the season with eight total tackles. His greatest impact, though, was probably relieving the workload of Jerry TIllery.

As a sophomore in 2018, Hinish saw his role on the Irish defense expand. Naturally, that lead to increased production. He recorded 13 total tackles and 1.5 sacks during Notre Dame’s undefeated 2018 season.

This past season, Hinish finally reached the top of the depth chart at nose tackle. As a starter, he had 15 total tackles, two sacks, and a forced fumble.

As an interior defensive lineman playing next to some talented defensive ends, Hinish has flown under the radar a bit. However, he has been one of the more consistent players on Notre Dame’s defense the past couple years.

I think 2020 will be a bit of breakout season for Hinish. He will be an integral part to what should be a very formidable defensive front for the Irish. Another productive year should solidify his place in the 2021 NFL Draft.