Irish Starter Matt Hegarty Will Transfer for Final Season

Notre Dame Fighting Irish offensive lineman Matt Hegarty announced Wednesday that he will be transferring from the school. A season ago, the senior started 11 of 13 games and became a major staple of the unit. Still, four of five starters are set to return for the 2015 campaign and the position continues to be a logjam for playing time even without Hegarty.

The New Mexico native will graduate in May and be eligible to play right away for one lucky program. He brings great determination to the gridiron and should be a valuable asset for any squad.

“I am extremely grateful for the opportunity that the Notre Dame Football program has afforded me,” Hegarty said. “I want to thank Notre Dame, my coaches, my teammates and friends at school for the four great years I had at Notre Dame. I also want to thank the Notre Dame Nation for all of their support over the years. My focus has been to pour myself into everything that I have done at ND. I have worked hard and have always done everything that was asked of me. Recently my coaches informed me that they wanted me to change positions. They also explained that with many younger players in the wings, they wanted to develop them more heavily in the rotation — a need that I understand and appreciate.

“Unfortunately, I have already had to miss a precious amount of football battling back from my stroke, and I value every rep and opportunity going into my final year of college ball that much more. My goal is to contribute this season, continue to develop my skills and pursue my dream of playing in the NFL. Because of this goal, I have asked for a transfer to play at another school where I can contribute more on the field. Notre Dame has amassed formidable depth on the O-line and have many very talented players to fill all positions.

“So I wish everyone at ND the best this year and especially to my 15 brothers on the offensive line as they prepare for the 2015 season.”

*Section Photo credit to Getty Images North America; Featured Photo (above) credit to Matt Cashore, USA Today Sports

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