Notre Dame Football: 5 observations of the 2021 recruiting class

The Notre Dame football program brought in 27 new players as incoming freshmen this recruiting cycle, adding some elite talent on both sides of the ball. From offensive linemen to defensive backs, Brian Kelly and his staff have reloaded all over the place, and will now be tasked with keeping this program moving in the right direction.

As we take a look at the 2021 recruiting class, which was finalized on Wednesday, there is a lot to be excited about. Here are five quick observations of the talent that was brought in for the 2021 college football season.

Brought in a legitimate QB1

The Irish will likely go with Jack Coan to start the 2021 college football season at quarterback, this after Coan transferred after a career at Wisconsin that saw him lead the Badgers to the Big Ten title game two years ago. Coan was not going to supplant Graham Mertz in 2021, as the freshman stepped up big for the Badgers this past season, so on to South Bend, he went as a graduate transfer.

With Coan as the presumed starter, Tyler Buchner will likely be the No. 2, but we should get to see some of him in live game action this season. He could play in four games and still redshirt, which may be the way he wants to go, giving him experience heading into taking over as the starter in 2022.

Of course, based on his tape, he could absolutely come in and start right away, so all eyes will be on Buchner in 2021.