Notre Dame Football: 2021 NFL Draft predictions from the SlaptheSign.com staff

Notre Dame Football: 2021 NFL Draft predictions from the SlaptheSign.com staff

Nick McCloud (DB)

Connor McJunkin: Undrafted

Of the five Notre Dame players I think will go undrafted, I believe McCloud is the most likely to be selected; however, I think it is more likely he ends up signing as an undrafted free agent. I see him being snagged by a team as soon as the draft ends. McCloud is an above-average man-to-man corner, and I could see him going to a team like Tennessee, New England, or Atlanta.

Jack Leniart: Round 6, Pick 223, Arizona Cardinals

I think Nick McCloud jumped up some draft boards after he ran the 40-yard dash in 4.37 seconds at Notre Dame’s Pro Day. He has the size that NFL teams are looking for in cornerbacks and the speed to cover receivers at the next level. Due to his lack of production, he is still probably a day three pick. I think he would fit nicely in Arizona, where he would undergo baptism by fire by having to cover DeAndre Hopkins in practice.

Andrew Hall: Round 7

McCloud’s 40-yard dash time definitely elevated him to a prospect worthy of a draft pick. He played well at both North Carolina State and Notre Dame when he was healthy. NFL teams are always looking to strengthen their secondary as the league becomes more and more pass-heavy.

Brad Weiss: Undrafted

Unfortunately, I do not see Nick McCloud being a 2021 NFL Draft pick, though I do believe he is going to latch on somewhere as an undrafted free agent and be a solid pro. This is a guy who is an amazing athlete and stepped up big-time for the Irish last season, and I really hope he sneaks in as a Day 3 pick.