If you’ve followed this site or my ramblings about Notre Dame football in various locations over the years you’re aware that I’ve got a fondness for Alohi Gilman even if I’m aware of where he doesn’t grade out as an elite college football player or draft prospect for that matter.
If the Notre Dame defense needed a stop or turnover in the last two seasons it was as likely that Gilman was going to make it as anyone else.
Gilman was selected in the sixth round of the NFL Draft this past weekend by the Los Angeles Chargers where he’ll have work cut out to make what is a pretty loaded roster at the safety positions. Gilman’s ability to perform well on special teams certainly won’t hurt his case.
One of the cool images or moments of the weekend was seeing Gilman’s celebration after finding out the news of being drafted by the Chargers. Like Kmet in Illinois and Troy Pride, Jr. in South Carolina, Gilman was treated to a massive parade back home that was in-junction with Bradlee Anae of Utah, who lives down the block and was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys.
This was the start of an hour long parade for Chargers S Alohi Gilman and Cowboys DE Bradlee Anae, who live a block away from each other in Kahuku. #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/cXPj2JC6yU
— Matt Freeman (@mattfreemanISD) April 26, 2020
There was also a great moment just after Gilman found out the news from the Chargers as he and his dad shared a moment in the family home.
one of a kind moment 💛 pic.twitter.com/QvxmnOjQe8
— Los Angeles Chargers (@Chargers) April 26, 2020
The former Navy transfer finished his two year career at Notre Dame with 169 tackles, including a career-high 10 versus Louisville to open the 2019 season in which he served as a captain. He also forced six fumbles, recovered one and intercepted three passes in the blue and gold.