Instant Reaction: Bonner's Return Makes D-line Deeper and Better

Notre Dame found out they would have nine starters returning on defense when Jerry Tillery and Te’Von Coney announced they would not leave for the NFL. Make it ten with the surprise move of Jonathan Bonner now coming back for his fifth year. He previously had said he was not going to elect to do so prior to the end of the regular season.

Although not quite as big as Tillery or Coney returning, it’s still a return that can have a massive impact on the defensive line. In his first season as a starter, Bonner did not put up gaudy numbers and wasn’t a disruptive presence as a three technique. What he did provide is quality play against the run that helped someone like Coney rack up all those tackles and TFLs.

Bonner held up really well at the point of attack and even played minutes at one technique to give Jerry Tillery a break when Kurt Hinish was struggling early in the season.

Myron Tagovailoa-Amosa will compete with Bonner at 3 technique this spring and fall. He may eventually win the job over Bonner. Even if that occurs, Bonner’s return ensures that MTA will have to earn it. Nothing will be handed to him just like it won’t be handed to incoming 4 star freshman Jayson Ademilola. He’ll have to come in and prove he deserves to play as a true freshman rather than being the second best guy and be forced to.

Bonner makes the defensive tackle group deeper and better in 2018. He could make a step forward and give himself a shot at an NFL career afterwards as well. This is another big win for the Irish defense next season. Mike Elston and newly promoted defensive coordinator Clark Lea have to be excited about what they have comin back next season. It’s looking like the group has a chance to be best one Notre Dame has had in awhile.