Okwara and Defensive Line Ready to Surprise

Julian Okwara might only be a sophomore, but Notre Dame will count on him to rush the quarterback in 2017. The 6-foot-4, 240-pounder believes the defensive line has put in the work, and the entire unit will be much improved from a year ago. 

“Coming into the spring, we were getting used to a bunch of new things,” Okwara stated. “Over the course of the summer, I tried to find more time in the playbook and getting to know the defense. I spent more time in the film room and doing things outside of practice. I tried to work on everything I could to get better.” 

The Charlotte native also see’s a bond forming between the players in his position room. There is competition for playing time, but it’s healthy competition. 

“We definitely encourage each other,” explained Okwara. “When one guy makes a play, we all congratulate each other. When our name is called, we try to make plays and we're building confidence heading into the season.” 

Okwara’s biggest strength is his speed off the edge, and he has focused on improving in the run game this offseason. 

“I am working on being able to stand my ground and holding the edge in the run game,” Okwara said. “The strength program has helped a lot with that because Coach (Matt) Balis has done a great job. We have gotten stronger with our squats and bench. It’s translating to the field in our play, and it helps out a lot.”

The defensive line knows they didn’t meet expectations last year and it's been a driving force this offseason. Head coach Brian Kelly and Mike Elko have given compliments in recent weeks, and Okwara believes there has been significant progression. 

“We just want to go out there and work,” Okwara said. “We practice every day, and we are working on everything we need to work on. We have been progressing since the spring, and everything is clicking for the defense. I think we’re going to surprise a lot of people this year.”