When putting together a “dream class” scenario for Notre Dame in 2027, Albert Simien would always be included. That dream is now a reality with Simien committing to Notre Dame.
One of the top offensive line prospects in this cycle, this is a massive win for Joe Rudolph and the Notre Dame staff.
Height: 6’4”
Weight: 285
Projected Position: Offensive tackle or guard
ISD Grade: 96 (4-star)
National Average Grade: 96.1 (4-star)
What he does best:
Simien has scary raw power. Whatever this idiotic defense that the opposing team is running here (three yards off the ball?) is inviting someone like him to have a free run at a defender. He could be a devastating puller.
He’s a finisher. He plays mean and wants to impose his will in the run game. He’s also willing to go looking for more work after doing so.
I know a lot of people project him to move inside, but he has the feet to play tackle and he measured in with 36.5 inch arm length last year. He could absolutely play tackle and develop into a great player at that spot as well.
What he needs to improve:
He has elite tools to work with. There’s just a level of consistency with his technique that needs refinement and you can see particularly in his pass sets. He’s raw in that area and that will be the biggest adjustment for him at Notre Dame, especially if he ends up staying at tackle.
What’s his ceiling?
Simien has the size, frame, athleticism, and demeanor that project him to become a dominant player at Notre Dame if he puts in the work. There are only so many offensive linemen in the country who share the traits he possesses. They are typically the traits that NFL teams covet in offensive linemen.
He’s a lot like Guerby Lambert where he’s going to get a lot bigger and be able to carry that weight well. I don’t believe it will have a negative affect on his mobility.
Simien reminds me of former Notre Dame OT Blake Fisher. Fisher was a bit more polished at this same point in pass protection, but the size and movement skills match up very closely. I could see Simien end up playing both guard and tackle at Notre Dame and he has the talent to develop into one of the best O-linemen in the country.
Who he could be:
Former Notre Dame OT Blake Fisher
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