Commentary: RKGs?

How many times has Brian Kelly said RKGs? He said it in his introductory press conference. He said it at his last recruiting press conference and many times in between. It is almost nauseating how many times he discussing getting the "Right Kind of Guys." But, what is even more alarming is Kelly saying one thing and doing the exact opposite.

In 2011, Kelly landed one of the best classes in the nation. Among these players was Aaron Lynch. Lynch was one of the best defensive players to sign with Notre Dame in 25 years. Lynch defines a five-star prospect. Unfortunately, he also defines a "five-star attitude." Lynch has received several personal fouls and does not show any signs of stopping.



That is Lynch's mentality. But, it is spilling over into practice. Recently, Lynch was involved in a fight with Tate Nichols. Some critics and fans will argue that is football. But, there are several other cases that demonstrate Kelly is not bringing in the RKGs.

In the 2012 recruiting class, Notre Dame had several prima donnas. These recruits were Davonte Neal, Tee Shepard, Ronald Darby and Deontay Greenberry.

Davonte Neal's announcement fiasco was highly publicized. He and his father blew off a bunch of young children and media members. He will now attend the University of Notre Dame. He may cause problems. He may not. But, his attitude shows that he may cause problems in the future.

Tee Shepard joined Notre Dame's team in January. He left by March. To be fair, there were several rumors as to why he left; a medical reason, academic reasons or he just could not handle Notre Dame. But, it was clear that Notre Dame was not a fit for Shepard. Kelly hurt his relationship with the Notre Dame.

Ronald Darby de-committed from Notre Dame after supposedly not being in communication with Notre Dame coaches. These excuses seemed more like lies. Notre Dame was in contact with Darby during those periods. He just needed a way out of his commitment.

Deontay Greenberry told Notre Dame he was going to play for the Fighting Irish just hours before he signed with Houston. Is an RKG a person who directly lies to people when they depend on them the most?

Notre Dame has landed commitments from Malik Zaire and Hunter Bivin in this lastest recruiting cycle. These players represent what Notre Dame should target in a prospect. Midwestern prospects or players from private schools. For example, Malik Zaire is from private Archbishop Alter in Kettering, OH. He also lead his team to a state championship and is an excellent student. Zaire is not the "best" Quarterback prospect in this cycle but he can lead Notre Dame in the future. He is truly an RKG. Kelly appears to be moving in that direction.