Notre Dame CB Benjamin Morrison to declare for draft

Notre Dame cornerback Benjamin Morrison plans to enter the 2025 NFL Draft, he announced Thursday on social media.

The 6-foot, 190-pound junior underwent season-ending hip surgery in October but still is considered a first-round pick.

ESPN draft guru Mel Kiper Jr., in his mock draft issued Thursday, projected Morrison to be selected by the Minnesota Vikings, who have the No. 24 pick.

"After much prayer and conversations with my loved ones, I've decided to forego my final year of eligibility at Notre Dame and declare for the 2025 NFL Draft," Morrison posted to Instagram.

"This is not just the end of one chapter -- it's the beginning of another. I'll carry the lessons, memories and love from Notre Dame with me every step of the way. Thank you for making these years unforgettable and allowing me to live out my dreams."

A four-star prospect from Phoenix in the Class of 2022, Morrison appeared in 31 games (26 starts) for the Irish. A team captain, he had 84 career tackles, 27 passes defensed, nine interceptions and a touchdown. He was limited to six games in 2024 because of the hip injury.

Also Thursday, multiple outlets reported a pair of starting Notre Dame offensive linemen -- Rocco Spindler and Pat Coogan -- would be entering the transfer portal.

--Field Level Media