SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Christmas has come early for the nation's No. 1 team, as Notre Dame will welcome back draft prospects Zack Martin and Louis Nix for another season.

Coach Brian Kelly made the announcement Monday morning during the Fighting Irish's bowl media day. Martin, a fourth-year junior with a fifth-year option, has started each of the Irish's past 38 games at left tackle and is one of two offensive captains this season.