A day after its season came to an end via 31-14 defeat to No. 1 Alabama in the Rose Bowl, Notre Dame received a bit of good news as one of their better defensive players has decided to stick around for a fifth season.
Nose guard Kurt Hinish will take advantage of the NCAA’s COVID-19 and return to play on Notre Dame’s defensive line in 2021 according to Eric Hansen of NDInsider.
Since Hinish’s eligibility was set to expire under normal circumstances, the COVID rule means he will not count against the NCAA scholarship limit of 85 next season.
The Pittsburgh native recorded 19 tackles this season, 7.5 of which were for a loss. He also had two quarterback sacks.
Kicker Jonathan Doerer appears to be the other strong candidate that could take advantage of the rule and return in 2021 as well as the likes of Ian Book, Liam Eichenberg, and several others appear to be done playing football at Notre Dame.
Kurt, we always say that football rewards tough and gritty players. Since you’ve been at Notre Dame you’ve been the epitome of those words! Love you man! #FTB pic.twitter.com/guekbJqzJj
— Mike Elston (@CoachMikeElston) December 5, 2020
Only eight months and two days until Notre Dame travels to Tallahassee to open the 2021 season at Florida State.