Nick Besler, Senior, M, Notre Dame
Overview:
Nick is the younger brother of Matt Besler, another Notre Dame grad who currently plays for Sporting Kansas City (MLS) and is also a member of the U.S. Men’s National Team. Nick was an NSCAA All-American coming out of high school and played in 13 games for the Fighting Irish during the 2011 season. Besler didn’t record any points but he gained some valuable minutes in the central midfield. Nick saw a significant increase in playing time during the 2012 season, starting in all 22 matches for the Fighting Irish and tallying four points (1G, 2A). He had a goal and an assist in a 3-2 overtime win against Georgetown in the final of the Big East Championship, earning him Big East Championship All-Tournament Team honors. Nick missed eight games in the 2013 season due a leg injury, but he started all 16 games he played in, receiving All-ACC First Team and NCAA All-Tournament Team honors.
Besler is a central midfielder with exquisite touch and control. His vision and quick decision-making allow him to maintain a constant flow between the backline and attacking players up front. Besler consistently delivers quality balls, and he’s just as effective at using his head as he is his feet. He’s poised, works well in tight spaces and is capable of defending when necessary.
Final Projection:
Given his skill set and pedigree, Besler is a potential top five pick in the 2015 MLS draft. It would be a surprise if he didn’t go early in the first round.
