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Louisville Football’s 2023 NFL Draft Prospect List

By Cameron Franck

Nov 19, 2022; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; Louisville Cardinals defensive lineman YaYa Diaby (6) and Louisville Cardinals linebacker Yasir Abdullah (22) walk off the field during the second half against the North Carolina State Wolfpack at Cardinal Stadium. Louisville defeated North Carolina State 25-10. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 19, 2022; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; Louisville Cardinals defensive lineman YaYa Diaby (6) and Louisville Cardinals linebacker Yasir Abdullah (22) walk off the field during the second half against the North Carolina State Wolfpack at Cardinal Stadium. Louisville defeated North Carolina State 25-10. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports /
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Arguably the best linebacker in the ACC this past season, Yasir Abdullah has serious potential to play on Sundays. Despite not receiving an invite to the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine, Abdullah has the athleticism and ability to play at the next level.

This past season, the Miramar, Florida native recorded 34 solo tackles and 29 assisted tackles for a combined 63 total tackles, which is more than he has had any other season. His second best season was the year prior, in 2021, when he recorded a total of 60 combined tackles (42 solo, 18 assisted).

Also, he recorded two interceptions and forced four fumbles this season, which broke both of his previous records in each category. Yasir Abdullah has been overlooked by the ACC in terms of his production on the field and for whichever NFL team that doesn’t look over him, he could make a serious impact for them.

After spending five seasons with the Ole Miss Rebels, Sanogo finished his collegiate career with the Cardinals. In one season at Louisville, he tallied 44 solo tackles, 45 assisted tackles, 89 total tackles, 4.5 sacks, and three fumble recoveries. It was the most impressive season he has had behind his sophomore campaign in Oxford, Mississippi.

Sanogo was redshirted in 2019 due to a season-ending ankle injury, which allowed him one extra season and he decided to spend it in Louisville, Kentucky. He is projected to be an undrafted free agent, but there are many stories about undrafted players making a name for themselves in the league.

Yaya Diaby and Yasir Abdullah made a dynamic duo in terms of rushing the passer this season. Just like Abdullah, it’s very easy to envision Diaby playing on Sundays. The Atlanta, Georgia native finished his Louisville career with 56 solo tackles, 38 assisted tackles, 94 total tackles, 10.5 sacks, and two fumbles recovered.

Diaby was one of two Cardinals who accepted an invitation to go to the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine and is currenty listed as the 57th best defensive lineman available for the NFL Draft. Known for his high-motor and body control, he will be able to translate his collegiate success to the next level.

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