NOTRE DAME RELEASES OFFICIAL FIFTH-YEAR SENIOR LIST

Taylor Dever-Starting right tackle who's play improved greatly last season. He will again be the starter at right tackle in what should be an excellent line in 2011.

Gary Gray-Top cornerback on the team and a top five corner in the nation. Gray is one of the best tacklers from the corner position and was a huge reason why the Notre Dame defense was so greatly improved in 2010. Should be an eventual starter in the NFL.

Andrew Nuss-Backup to Taylor Dever at offensive tackle. Provides much needed depth and experience for the Irish line.

Mike Ragone-Backup tight end to Tyler Eifert. Ragone has battled injuries since high school but when he plays he is the best blocking tight end. Was a must get since Kyle Rudolph left early for the NFL.

David Ruffer-Finalist for the Lou Groza Award this past season and should be on scholarship in 2011. One could argue that Ruffer was the MVP of the team. A fan favorite even though NBC butchers his name.

Harrison Smith-Starting safety who had an excellent 2010. He has transformed himself into one of the best safeties in the nation. Had a game saving pick vs. USC at the end of the game and also had 3 picks in the bowl game vs. Miami. Named a captain along with Michael Floyd for 2011.

From what I see on paper only offensive lineman Matt Romine and defensive lineman Emeka Nwankwo were not asked back for 5th years. As of now with the 23 incoming recruits and the 5 fifth-years back Notre Dame has a full roster of 85. Notre Dame doesn't "gray-shirt" like the SEC schools do so if they take on anymore recruits before signing day or a transfer like Prestwood from FSU then somebody would have to transfer out of the Notre Dame program who is currently on the scholarship chart. My money on a possible transfer out would be a QB, defensive lineman, or kicker.