PFF’s 2025 Preseason All-American Team Includes Two Notre Dame Standouts

The Pro Football Focus (PFF) Preseason All-American Team for 2025 is here, highlighting the best college football players across the nation heading into the upcoming season. Among the elite athletes named to the prestigious team, two Notre Dame players stand out, signaling the continued rise of the Fighting Irish program under head coach Marcus Freeman.

In this article, we take an in-depth look at these two key Notre Dame players who made PFF’s prestigious list and what makes them among the best in college football.

Introduction to the PFF Preseason All-American Team

Every year, Pro Football Focus compiles a list of the best college football players heading into the season, selecting those who have demonstrated the most consistent performance on the field, backed by advanced metrics and film study. The PFF All-American list is widely respected by fans, coaches, and scouts alike, as it is based on data-driven evaluations that provide a comprehensive view of player performance.

This year’s 2025 Preseason All-American Team continues that tradition, featuring standout players from across the nation. But for Notre Dame fans, it’s the two Fighting Irish players who have been named to the list that have them particularly excited.

Notre Dame’s 2025 Preseason All-American Standouts

1. Joe Alt – Offensive Tackle

One of the cornerstones of Notre Dame’s offensive line, Joe Alt has been a force on the gridiron since stepping onto campus. Heading into his junior year, Alt has already established himself as one of the premier offensive tackles in college football. PFF’s recognition of Alt as a Preseason All-American is a testament to his exceptional skill set, physicality, and leadership.

A Dominant Force in the Trenches

Joe Alt’s impact on the field is undeniable. Standing at 6’8″ and weighing 318 pounds, Alt has the size and strength to dominate opposing defenders. But what sets him apart isn’t just his physical traits. Alt’s technique, footwork, and understanding of the game make him a complete player. He is often seen handling some of the best pass rushers in college football with ease, both in pass protection and in the running game.

In 2024, Alt was a key reason for Notre Dame’s potent offense, which was one of the best in the country at both running the ball and protecting the quarterback. He earned an 89.3 grade from PFF for his performance that season, showcasing his ability to neutralize opposing defenders. His efforts helped Notre Dame rank among the top teams in the country for rushing yards per game, and the offensive line’s protection allowed quarterbacks to thrive in the pocket.

Physical Traits and Technical Prowess

Alt’s combination of size and agility is rare at his position. As a massive tackle, he has the power to move defenders in the running game but also possesses the nimbleness required to protect the edge in passing situations. He is exceptionally good at keeping his balance and hand placement consistent, which allows him to redirect defenders and maintain his block for longer durations.

In addition to his physical tools, Alt has a high football IQ. His awareness of stunts, blitzes, and defensive line schemes allows him to make adjustments on the fly and communicate effectively with his offensive line teammates. This ability to make in-game adjustments is crucial at the next level and is one of the key reasons why Alt has been so successful thus far.

What to Expect in 2025

Heading into the 2025 season, Alt is expected to build on his already impressive resume. His leadership will be critical to the Fighting Irish offense, and with his size, skill, and technical abilities, he will likely continue to be a dominant force in the trenches. Many draft analysts have already marked him as one of the top offensive tackle prospects for the 2026 NFL Draft, and his performance in 2025 will likely solidify that status.

2. Audric Estimé – Running Back

Another Notre Dame player making waves on the 2025 Preseason All-American Team is junior running back Audric Estimé. Coming off a stellar 2024 campaign, Estimé has been recognized for his blend of size, speed, and power that has made him one of the most dynamic running backs in college football.

A Physical Runner with Breakaway Speed

Audric Estimé’s unique blend of power and speed sets him apart from other backs in college football. Standing at 6’1″ and weighing 230 pounds, Estimé is built like a traditional power back. However, unlike many of his peers, he also has the ability to break away for long touchdowns, making him a dual-threat both in between the tackles and in open space.

In 2024, Estimé rushed for over 1,200 yards and 15 touchdowns while averaging 5.8 yards per carry. His ability to bulldoze through defenders while maintaining excellent vision and patience has made him a reliable workhorse for the Fighting Irish offense. He is particularly dangerous on inside zone runs, where his ability to hit the hole with speed and power has led to several explosive plays.

A Complete Running Back

What makes Estimé truly special is his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game. While his primary role is as a ball carrier, he has also proven to be a capable receiver out of the backfield, adding another dimension to the Notre Dame offense. In 2024, Estimé recorded 300+ receiving yards and several crucial third-down conversions, showing his versatility.

In addition to his offensive contributions, Estimé is known for his blocking ability, something that sets him apart from other running backs. His willingness to step up and protect the quarterback in passing situations makes him a trusted asset for the offense. This all-around game is one of the reasons why he was selected as a Preseason All-American by PFF.

What to Expect in 2025

Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Estimé will once again be the focal point of the Fighting Irish offense. His ability to dominate between the tackles and make plays in the passing game will make him a key figure in Notre Dame’s success. As a potential early-round draft pick for the 2026 NFL Draft, Estimé will be looking to solidify his place as one of the top running backs in the nation.

The Impact of These Two Standouts on Notre Dame’s 2025 Season

With Joe Alt and Audric Estimé earning Preseason All-American honors, Notre Dame is poised to have a strong offensive unit in 2025. These two players, along with other key returners, will be critical in leading the team as they pursue a national championship.

Notre Dame’s offense is built around a powerful line of scrimmage, and with Alt anchoring the offensive line and Estimé providing the explosive playmaking ability in the backfield, the Fighting Irish are well-positioned to compete with the best of the best. The presence of two players on the PFF Preseason All-American Team speaks to the strength and depth of Notre Dame’s roster as they prepare for a challenging 2025 campaign.

The Future of Notre Dame Football

Under head coach Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame has made significant strides toward becoming a perennial College Football Playoff contender. The program’s commitment to developing talent and competing at the highest level is evident in the recognition of players like Alt and Estimé.

As the 2025 season approaches, Notre Dame fans are hopeful that the Fighting Irish can translate these individual accolades into team success. With key players like Alt and Estimé leading the charge, Notre Dame’s future looks incredibly bright, and the program is set to make a serious run at a national championship in the coming years.

The inclusion of Joe Alt and Audric Estimé on PFF’s 2025 Preseason All-American Team serves as a reminder of the growing strength and talent of the Notre Dame football program. These two players are not only among the best at their respective positions, but they also embody the hard work, skill, and determination that have come to define the Fighting Irish in recent years.

As the 2025 season unfolds, Notre Dame fans will be keeping a close eye on these two standouts, hoping that their performances lead the team to greater success. With Alt’s dominance on the offensive line and Estimé’s versatility in the backfield, Notre Dame is ready to make its mark on college football, and the future looks incredibly promising.