Notre Dame freshman linebacker Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa isn't just the future, but needs to be the present for the Irish
When you discuss the 2024 Notre Dame recruiting class, there was a fun debate over who the top overall recruit was in the group. Some would argue quarterback CJ Carr, others might mention defensive end Bryce Young, or even offensive tackle Guerby Lambert. Five-star linebacker Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa is also very much a part of that […]
When you discuss the 2024 Notre Dame recruiting class, there was a fun debate over who the top overall recruit was in the group. Some would argue quarterback CJ Carr, others might mention defensive end Bryce Young, or even offensive tackle Guerby Lambert. Five-star linebacker Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa is also very much a part of that conversation, and he is already beginning to prove it on the field.
Coming out of fall camp, the Notre Dame coaches made it very well known how much confidence they have in Viliamu-Asa, who earned a big role in the linebacker rotation. Through three games, the California native is tied for second on the team with 13 total tackles. Viliamu-Asa has also recorded a tackle for loss and an interception, doing so while not even starting yet.
When you pop on the film from the team’s 66-7 blowout victory over Purdue this weekend, it’s tough not to get excited about just how good No. 27 can become. He was flying around and making so many big plays. The talent is tantalizing to say the least.
From a physical perspective, Viliamu-Asa is Notre Dame’s biggest linebacker. At 6-3 and 240 pounds, it’s not overly shocking that he was ready to compete. Viliamu-Asa also does a lot of things you would export from a player his size, playing with a tremendous blend of power and tenacity.
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The thing that takes you off guard, however, is the range and foot speed that Viliamu-Asa possesses. His most impressive plays right now are chasing opposing runners to the perimeter, where you gain a deep appreciation for just how athletic he is overall.
When his athleticism and power merge regularly, which they did on Saturday, you gain an appreciation for just how special the St. John Bosco product is. Not only can Viliamu-Asa cover a ton of ground, but he also gets to the spot with some bad intentions. It’s fun to watch.
Perhaps the best part of Viliamu-Asa’s game is his instincts. He doesn’t play like a true freshman who is just in his third career college game. The instincts and awareness are special. Viliamu-Asa also seems to be in the right spot, whether that is the run or passing game.
With how deep the linebacker room is for the Irish, they are not going to limit how many players get on the field on the second level. One thing is certain, however, Viliamu-Asa needs to play even more. We aren’t talking about a quality contributor, or even a good player. He has the upside to be a superstar and arguably the best player on the team over the next couple of years.
Many have called Viliamu-Asa the future of the Notre Dame football program. Not only is he the future, but he is also the present. This is a rare football player that don't come around South Bend very often. No linebacker on the roster has the upside he possesses.
