Former Notre Dame standout continues to struggle to find footing on one of the worst position groups in the NFL entering 2025

Former Notre Dame standout continues to struggle finding his NFL footing

Ryan Roberts — National College Football Writer
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When former Notre Dame offensive lineman Blake Fisher opted to enter the 2024 NFL Draft class with eligibility remaining, that decision was met with some second guessing. The former top recruit had flashes of big time potential during his time in the blue and gold, but his inconsistencies were maddening. Many thought leaving that eligibility on the table wasn’t the wisest of decisions. 

Despite those naysayers, Fisher was selected by the Houston Texans in the second round that April. He was walking into an offensive line room that needed some serious help, and there appeared to be a lot of opportunity in front of him. Fisher managed to start five games in that initial season, but in extremely predictable fashion, he struggled mightily.

Heading into his second season, it’s viewed as a massive one for Fisher. With the Texans having traded Laremy Tunsil to the Washington Commanders this offseason, there are seemingly openings at left tackle, right tackle, and inside at guard. It feels like the perfect situation for Fisher to find a spot up front. 

Despite that, Fisher appears to be running with the second team during camp. There have reportedly been some continued struggles for Fisher, and there is little optimism, as of now, that he will head into the season as a starter. The projected starting offensive line right now appears to be Cam Robinson, Laken Tomlinson, Jarrett Patterson, Tytus Howard, and rookie Aireontae Ersery. 

Fisher is still just 22 years old, so this isn’t the end of his career arc. The 6-6, 312-pound offensive tackle still has loads of talent, and there is no reason to believe that he can’t figure it out. Not being able to crack the starting lineup for arguably the worst offensive line in the league, however, would be a pretty rough look. 

For NFL Draft prospects that declare early, there is the cautionary tale of short term payback vs long term success. For Fisher, he still managed to go early due to his raw tools and that golden helmet. But what is best for the entirety of his career? 

One would argue, including myself, that one more year of college experience would have paid off big time for Fisher. Perhaps that is incorrect, but it defensively wouldn’t have hurt. Fighting Irish fans from all over the country will be hoping that Fisher can get it turned around, and finally start tapping into his potential.

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