Notre Dame DL Rylie Mills Eyes NFL Draft While Rehabbing from ACL Injury
Notre Dame defensive lineman Rylie Mills capped off an impressive college career, having played in 62 games for the Fighting Irish.
The 6-foot-5, 291-pounder totaled 131 tackles, 25 tackles for loss, and 17 sacks over his time in South Bend.
Unfortunately, Mills’ college career ended sooner than he had hoped.
Mills tore his ACL during Notre Dame’s 27-17 playoff win over Indiana and missed the following three games as the Irish advanced to the National Championship game.
Now, Mills is focused on two things: his recovery and this week’s NFL Draft.
“It’s been great,” said Mills. “I’m a couple months in. It’s been awesome. I take it one day at a time. I’m working with a great staff.”
Mills had to watch his teammates in the playoffs and now he’s watching his competition have the chance to work out at the Combine or Pro Days.
It’s been a challenge not to compete and show NFL decision makers why they should draft him, but Mills does believe his film speaks for itself.
“It’s not my favorite part,” Mills said of being unable to work out for scouts. “I think it’s tough having to watch everyone else compete. That competitive part of me is really on fire right now. I want to get out there. I have a great support system. The best part is I go back to my tape and I can look at that, which has been helpful.”
Knowing he couldn’t showcase his physical abilities, Mills leaned into the mental side of the game. He spent extra time studying defenses, working closely with former Notre Dame linebacker Jack Kiser to deepen his understanding of coverages and schemes.
“It was great,” explained Mills. “I got to show what I knew. Shoutout to Jack for helping me with the coverages. I was able to go up and draw up some stuff. It ultimately helped me understand the game better. I had this free time doing rehab and interview prep, so it helped me get a better understanding and feel more confident.”
Mills was at Notre Dame’s Pro Day last month to support his former teammates and it was special moment for the group as it’s likely the last time they all will be on the same field together.
“It’s fun,” Mills stated. “It’s great seeing everyone together. For me, it’s a celebration of everyone’s hard work during the season. They got to compete and show what they’ve done.”
This week, Mills will wait to learn where his professional journey will begin and will continue working towards his rehab goals.
”I’m just starting to run,” said Mills. “All I do is walk. I walk six miles a day now. I’m out there Forrest Gumping it. If I can get running, that’d be great.”
Want the latest scoop on the Fighting Irish? Sign up for our newsletter and become an ISD Premium Subscriber: Sign Up for ISD
New Era Navy Notre Dame Fighting Irish Game Day Multi-Rope 9SEVENTY Stretch-Snap Hat
