Notre Dame LB JD Bertrand Looks To Continue Momentum At 2024 NFL Scouting Combine

The mainstay in the middle of the Notre Dame defense over the last couple of seasons, Irish linebacker JD Bertrand was one of the more underrated defenders in all of college football during his time. Bertrand led the Irish in tackles each of the last three seasons, ending his career with 267 total tackles, 22.5 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks. He also recorded nine pass breakups and two forced fumbles for the Irish.

Bertrand’s career performance, and physical profile, was good enough to earn him an invite to the 2024 Reese’s Senior Bowl. During that week down in Mobile, Bertrand turned in a rock solid all around performance. He was lauded for his communication skills and underrated foot speed. It provided him with a lot of positive feedback.

Now the next step is set for Bertrand: impressing NFL scouts, evaluators and coaches in Indianapolis at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine. The on-field action kicks off on Thursday with linebackers and defensive lineman. Here is what Bertrand will try to prove during the multi-day job interview.

CURRENT PROJECTION

Bertrand is viewed as a potential Day Three draft pick right now, probably more towards the end of the final day. There isn’t massive upside to speak of but Bertrand is a very dependable player who always seems to be in the right spot. Without much length to work with, showing off athleticism would be in his best interest.

WHAT’S ON THE LINE AT THE COMBINE?

When you watch Bertrand’s film, most people can see the instincts. He is typically always in the proper spot to make plays. Most people will also give him the credit for his straight line speed, which is good for the position. The main question about Bertrand from an athleticism perspective is change of direction and short area ability.

Running a good forty-yard dash is expected, and shouldn’t be a massive surprise. If Bertrand is able to show some lower body flexibility and change of direction, however, it would be a big development. From there, it is about the meetings with teams. Bertrand is revered for his football intelligence and ability to process and communicate quickly. Proving that in the whiteboard and meeting sections of the Combine would be big.

Here are some potential numbers that would be beneficial for Bertrand to post during the testing portion of the week.

40-Yard Dash: 4.68 seconds
Vertical Jump: 32-34 inches
Broad Jump: 9 feet, 10 inches
3-Cone Drill: 4.2 seconds
Short Shuttle: 7.2 seconds
Bench Press: 22-24 reps

NEXT STEP

Bertrand must continue to impress NFL evaluators at every remaining part of the Draft process. That includes on March 21st for the Notre Dame Pro Day, where scouts will put him through position drills. More than anything, his Top 30 visits for the prospective organizations will be even bigger leading up to April.