We Are ND Nation Top 9 Notre Dame Players Since 2000: #3 Center Quenton Nelson

Some players dominate.
Quenton Nelson intimidated.
The moment No. 56 stepped onto the field, opposing defensive linemen knew they were in for a long afternoon. With unmatched power, relentless intensity, and a nasty streak that became his trademark, Nelson developed into one of the greatest offensive linemen in Notre Dame history.
After earning a starting role as a sophomore, Nelson anchored the left side of the Irish offensive line for three seasons, becoming the foundation of one of the nation's most physical rushing attacks. Alongside fellow All-American Mike McGlinchey, he helped transform Notre Dame into one of college football's premier offensive lines.
His senior season in 2017 was nothing short of dominant.
Nelson was named a Unanimous First-Team All-American, becoming the first Notre Dame offensive lineman to earn unanimous All-America honors since Aaron Taylor in 1993. He also served as a team captain and helped lead an Irish offense that ranked among the nation's best in rushing, averaging more than 270 rushing yards per game.
Perhaps most impressive was his consistency in pass protection.
Over more than 2,300 career offensive snaps, Nelson surrendered only two sacks, with none allowed during his final two seasons. His dominance earned him recognition as one of the highest-graded offensive linemen in the country and made him a finalist for the Outland Trophy, awarded to the nation's top interior lineman.
His physical style of play became legendary.
Whether it was pancaking defenders into the turf or finishing blocks well beyond the whistle, Nelson embodied the toughness and grit that Notre Dame fans have always admired. His highlight reels are filled not with touchdowns, but with devastating blocks that changed the momentum of games.
The Indianapolis Colts selected Nelson with the No. 6 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, validating what Irish fans already knew—he wasn't just the best guard in college football; he was one of the best football players, regardless of position.
Why He's #3Offensive linemen rarely receive the recognition they deserve.
Quenton Nelson made it impossible to ignore him.
His combination of power, technique, leadership, and relentless competitiveness helped redefine Notre Dame's offensive identity during his career. He wasn't just the best guard in college football—he was the heartbeat of the Fighting Irish.
For his dominance in the trenches and his lasting impact on one of Notre Dame's most physical teams of the modern era, Quenton Nelson earns the No. 3 spot on We Are ND Nation's Top 9 Notre Dame Players Since 2000.