Notre Dame CB Cam Hart announces return for fifth season
Cornerback Cam Hart won't be able to finish his senior season on the field for Notre Dame, but the Irish will have him back for the 2023 season.
Hart announced his decision Tuesday night on social media.
The 6-foot-3, 198-pound Hart injured his left shoulder in the final home game of the season against Boston College. Before that game, Hart took part in the Senior Day ceremony, which indicated he was considering leaving the program after this season.
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However, the Irish will be happy to bring back the experienced cornerback for another season. Hart played in 11 and started 10 games for the Irish this season after starting 10 games as a junior.
Hart increased his career tackle total to 70 this season with seven tackles for a loss. He's broken up 13 passes in his career and both of his interceptions came against Wisconsin in 2021.
Pro Football Focus graded Hart as a better player in 2021 than 2022. Last season, he allowed 32 receptions for 335 yards and two touchdowns on the 66 passes thrown his way. This season, Hart ceded 22 catches for 240 yards and three touchdowns on 44 targets.
Head coach Marcus Freeman indicated Hart was dealing with a shoulder issue this season prior to injuring against Boston College.
Hart will return alongside starting freshman cornerback Benjamin Morrison next season. Fifth-year cornerback TaRiq Bracy won't be eligible return. Junior cornerback Clarence Lewis, who has played in all 37 games in his first three seasons at Notre Dame, can return for the Irish as well. Freshman cornerback Jaden Mickey also saw defensive snaps in 10 games this season.
Notre Dame played without Hart and Bracy (hamstring) in the 38-27 loss at USC on Saturday.
'Yeah, especially Cam at the field corner," Freeman said of the stress put on Notre Dame's defense in their absence. "Jaden Mickey, a young, talented football player. But it's hard to come in and start your first of the year versus USC and an explosive offense.
"But (Mickey) played his heart out. But you miss those two guys. They're valuable members of the defense."
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