Notre Dame’s cornerbacks ready to make a statement this season

SOUTH BEND,Ind. -- Week three of Notre Dame football practice is underway — and while the offense often gets the spotlight, the Irish defense is just as important.

One of the deepest and most experienced position groups on the team is the secondary. Multiple outlets rank them among the top three in the country right now, and they’re led by a strong cornerback duo.

Returning this season are Leonard Moore and Christian Gray, along with standout transfer Devonta Smith from Virginia. Gray started last year strong with four pass breakups and an interception in the first four games before a hand injury slowed him down. Now healthy, the team expects him to return to that early-season form.

Moore is coming off a breakout freshman year with 48 tackles, 11 pass breakups, two interceptions, and two forced fumbles. He also held opposing quarterbacks to under a 47% completion rate. With Benjamin Morrison now in the NFL, Moore says he’s carrying the lessons Morrison taught him — including never giving himself excuses and making the most of every rep.

Cornerbacks coach Mike Mickens says the group’s identity is built on competitive spirit and unity. “It’s all about brotherhood,” Mickens said, noting how they push each other every day.

ABC57 will have more coverage from training camp on Sunday.