From Class A to Notre Dame record-breaker… to NFL? Jack Kiser’s had ‘a heck of a journey’
From Class A to Notre Dame Record-Breaker… to NFL? Jack Kiser’s ‘Heck of a Journey’
Jack Kiser’s football journey began in the small town of Royal Center, Indiana, where he attended Pioneer Junior-Senior High School. Despite the school’s modest size, Kiser’s impact on the field was anything but small. He led Pioneer to back-to-back Indiana Class A state championships in his junior and senior years, earning the 2018 IndyStar Mr. Football award—the first Class A player to receive the honor. At Pioneer, Kiser was a dual-threat quarterback and linebacker. He amassed over 9,000 all-purpose yards and 139 rushing touchdowns, showcasing his versatility and athleticism. His high school success caught the attention of college scouts, leading him to commit to the University of Notre Dame.
Kiser’s transition to Notre Dame was marked by determination and adaptability. Initially playing on special teams, he quickly earned a starting role as a linebacker. Over the course of his six-year collegiate career, Kiser became a cornerstone of the Fighting Irish defense. In 2024, Kiser set a Notre Dame record by appearing in 70 games, showcasing his durability and commitment citeturn0search3. Throughout his career, he accumulated 275 tackles, 6 sacks, 4 interceptions, and 2 forced fumbles, demonstrating his all-around defensive prowess .Beyond his on-field achievements, Kiser excelled academically. He was named a College Sports Communicators (CSC) First Team Academic All-American, recognizing his excellence both in the classroom and on the field . His leadership qualities were also evident as he served as a team captain in 202.
As Kiser concluded his collegiate career, attention turned to his potential in the NL. His combination of experience, leadership, and defensive skills made him an attractive prospect for professional teas.
In mock drafts, Kiser was projected as a fifth-round pik. For instance, a 2025 mock draft by Field Gulls had the Seattle Seahawks selecting Kiser in the fifth round, highlighting his value as a versatile linebacker .
Scouts have noted that while Kiser may not possess elite athletic traits, his football IQ, work ethic, and consistency make him a reliable contributor at the professional levl. His ability to read offenses and make adjustments on the fly has been a hallmark of his playing stye.
Jack Kiser’s journey from a small-town standout to a record-breaking Notre Dame linebacker and NFL hopeful is a testament to his dedication and resiliec. His story serves as an inspiration to athletes from all backgrounds, proving that with hard work and perseverance, dreams can become realty.
As Kiser prepares for the next phase of his football career, he leaves behind a legacy at Notre Dame that will be remembered for years to cm. His contributions to the Fighting Irish program, both on and off the field, have set a standard for future generations of student-athlees.
