This Guy Plays Notre Dame Football: #16 KJ Wallace, Cornerback

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish have a roster full of players, and we want to talk about them all. One Foot Down’s player profile series will take a look at every single one of them, and hopefully we all learn a little bit more about these guys, and Notre Dame’s chances for the upcoming 2020 season.

#16 KJ Wallace, Cornerback

Keeping tabs on the talent coming out of Georgia is a priority for Brian Kelly as the state has turned into an NFL Draft pick factory. Among the impact to come out of the state is Irish cornerback KJ Wallace. This Atlanta native is heading into his second season as one of the Fighting Irish. As a two-way standout, Wallace demanded attention during his high school career, at one point ranking No. 32 among all cornerbacks in the nation, according to 247sports. As an Irish freshman, Wallace recorded one tackle in Notre Dame’s blowout win against the University of New Mexico Lobos.

Spirit Animal

Last year’s player profile series had a “Hey, Dog, HEY!” spot instead of a “Spirit Animal Spot” in which the OFD writers would compare each player to the canine he is most like. I wrote Wallace’s profile last year, and the then freshman was a bulldog puppy with a good amount of growing to do. This time around, Wallace’s spirit animal is a stronger bulldog; he’s no longer a pup, but hasn’t gotten to be the strongest dog in the park just yet.

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2020 Outlook

The freshman season may be over, but Wallace will still have much to prove as he goes up against Cam Hart, Isaiah Rutherford, Caleb Offord, and Ramon Henderson for the starting nickel spot. He may not have chalked up the numbers some of the more experienced Irish players have this season, but he had a strong showing at fall camp and has the attitude for the job. Overall, Wallace will add versatility and depth to the Irish game in the new season.

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