Notre Dame's Eilar Hardy cleared to play

BY LaMOND POPE

Eilar Hardy, one of the five players Notre Dame investigated for suspected academic dishonesty, has been cleared to play by the NCAA.

The reserve safety had been held out of practices and games since Aug. 28. Coach Brian Kelly announced on Oct. 17 that Hardy had been invited back to the roster. Hardy returned to practice last week after the Irish came back from their second bye.

Hardy is the only one of the five to return this season.

Cornerback KeiVarae Russell and defensive lineman Ishaq Williams indicated they would like to come back for 2015.

Wide receiver DaVaris Daniels’ father, Phillip, said on Twitter his son is considering the option of returning next season. Russell later wrote on Instagram Daniels is “likely” to return next season. Moore, a fifth-year senior, will not return.

Hardy appeared in 10 games last season and made 26 tackles. He did not see any action for the Irish in 2011 and 2012.

Email: lpope@post-trib.com

Twitter: @lamondpope