In a significant development for Notre Dame football, standout cornerback Benjamin Morrison has been selected by the Green Bay Packers in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, marking a notable milestone for the Fighting Irish program. This selection ends a three-decade drought, as Morrison becomes the first Notre Dame cornerback to be drafted in the first round since Jeff Burris in 1994 .
Morrison’s journey to the NFL has been marked by exceptional performances and resilience. As a freshman in 2022, he tied for the Power Five lead with six interceptions, earning freshman All-American honors. He continued his impressive play in 2023 with 13 pass breakups and three interceptions citeturn0search7. Despite undergoing off-season shoulder surgery, Morrison’s elite ball skills and coverage abilities kept him high on draft boards. Pro Football Focus ranked him as the No. 8 overall prospect and the second-best cornerback in the 2025 class .
The Packers’ decision to draft Morrison addresses their need for a versatile and dynamic presence in the secondary. With uncertainties surrounding the futures of cornerbacks Kristian Fulton and Asante Samuel Jr., Morrison’s addition provides both immediate impact and long-term stability. His ability to play both outside and in the slot, combined with his quickness and fluidity, makes him a valuable asset for Green Bay’s defense .
Morrison’s selection is part of a broader trend highlighting Notre Dame’s defensive prowess. Safety Xavier Watts, known for his exceptional ball skills and instincts, was also drafted in the first round by the Baltimore Ravens, reuniting him with former Notre Dame teammate Kyle Hamilton citeturn0search4. Additionally, defensive tackle Howard Cross III, despite concerns about his size, was selected in the fourth round by the Tennessee Titans, bringing his disruptive presence to their defensive line .
These selections underscore the strength of Notre Dame’s defensive program under head coach Marcus Freeman. With a focus on developing NFL-ready talent, the Fighting Irish are poised to continue producing top-tier prospects in the coming years. The 2025 NFL Draft serves as a testament to the program’s commitment to excellence and its ability to prepare players for success at the professional level.
As Morrison embarks on his NFL career with the Packers, expectations are high for the young cornerback to make an immediate impact. His combination of athleticism, intelligence, and determination positions him well to thrive in the league. For Notre Dame, Morrison’s success serves as both a proud moment and a beacon for future recruits aspiring to reach the NFL.
