The Houston Texans drafted Notre Dame offensive lineman Blake Fisher in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft on Friday, April 26. Taken as the 59th overall selection, Fisher, a right tackle, is the second Irish offensive lineman selected in the first two rounds of this year’s draft. Left tackle Joe Alt was drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers with the No. 5 overall selection a day earlier.
Fisher, a two-year starter for Notre Dame, is a talented offensive tackle. A former four-star recruit out of Avon High School in Indiana, Fisher chose Notre Dame over a host of suitors. Some of the other powerhouse programs interested in him were Georgia, Alabama, Ohio State, Michigan, Florida State, and LSU to name a few. Many early NFL Draft projections placed Fisher in the third or fourth round. He steadily moved up the charts, however. He impressed scouts physically at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine and reportedly interviewed well throughout the draft process.
Fisher a Fit for the Texans
Fisher is joining a Texans team seemingly headed in the right direction. Winners of the AFC South, the Texans (10-7 in 2023) have a feared passing attack with quarterback C.J. Stroud at the helm. Left tackle Laremy Tunsil anchors the offensive line, while Charlie Heck is the projected starter at right tackle. Fisher, at 6’6”, 310 pounds, will add depth to the offensive line. He should have an opportunity to compete for a starting role in the Texans’ offense. He has good arm length, heavy hands, and is quick. A powerful blocker, Fisher is an especially imposing presence as a run-blocker. He will need to strengthen his pass protection skills for the next level. But he possesses all the skills to do just that.
Marist Liufau to the Cowboys
Fisher is not the only Notre Dame draftee headed to the Lone Star State. Notre Dame linebacker Marist Liufau is also Texas-bound after being drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the third round on Friday.
Liufau became a full-time starter for the Irish as a senior in 2022. He recorded 51 tackles, four-and-a-half tackles for loss, and snagged an interception that season. In 2023, he had 44 tackles, six tackles for loss, three sacks, and two pass breakups. He also forced a fumble. Liufau is a willing tackler and thrives on contact. He is tough with explosive energy. He will add strength to the edge for the Cowboys. Liufau should be able to contribute right away for new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer.
Notre Dame could have two linebackers drafted this year to go along with their pair of offensive linemen. JD Bertrand is hoping to joinLiufau, Fisher, and Alt in the NFL. Bertrand and Liufau were both part of Notre Dame’s 2019 recruiting class.
