Notre Dame linebacker Jack Kiser capped an already remarkable season with a standout performance at the 2025 Reese’s Senior Bowl, earning recognition as the top linebacker on the American squad. The honor, voted on by offensive linemen, tight ends, and running backs—position groups that directly clash with linebackers—highlights Kiser’s respect among peers and reinforces his rising NFL Draft stock.
Kiser’s path to Mobile was anything but routine. Fresh off a grueling 16-game season that included Notre Dame’s six-day College Football Playoff (CFP) window, the 6’2”, 235-pound senior arrived at Senior Bowl practices with minimal rest. Despite the physical and mental toll of a extended campaign, Kiser dominated drills, showcasing the versatility, instincts, and relentless motor that defined his collegiate career. “His ability to diagnose plays and react is elite,” said an AFC scout to ESPN. “He’s the type of linebacker who can wear multiple hats in a modern NFL defense.”
Social media buzzed with highlights of Kiser’s week, including a viral Twitter clip of him stonewalling a top-ranked running back in a goal-line drill. Reddit’s r/NFL_Draft praised his fluid coverage skills, while Senior Bowl executive Jim Nagy tweeted, “Kiser’s a tone-setter. The kind of guy every team wants in their locker room.”
At Notre Dame, Kiser was a tackling machine, amassing 89 stops, 4.5 sacks, and two interceptions in 2023. His leadership as a team captain and clutch performances in high-stakes games, including the CFP semifinal, solidified his reputation as a big-stage player. “Jack’s a warrior,” Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman told NBC Sports. “He’s built for moments like this.”
Analysts project Kiser as a Day 2 draft pick, but his Senior Bowl showing could push him into late first-round consideration. Teams like the Chicago Bears and Dallas Cowboys, both in need of linebacker depth, have reportedly shown interest.
As Kiser accepted his award, he credited his Notre Dame roots: “This jersey taught me to never back down. I’m just getting started.” With the NFL Combine ahead, Kiser’s stock is soaring—proof that grit and talent shine brightest under pressure.
