Notre Dame coach Kelly says he must do better at making sure players know they are accountable

Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C. the University's President, left, talks about the academic scandal Friday Aug. 15, 2014 in South Bend, Ind. Notre Dame says it is investigating "suspected academic dishonesty" involving several students, including four members of the football team who are being held out of practice. At right is Notre Dame Vice President/Director of Athletics Jack Swarbrick.(AP Photo/Joe Raymond) (The Associated Press)

Notre Dame coach Brian Kelly says he needs to do a better job of creating an environment in which players know they are accountable after learning four are being investigated for suspected academic dishonesty.

Kelly said Saturday he was shocked and disappointed to learn about the investigation. He says players know Notre Dame won't compromise its integrity and he applauds the university for that.

The university announced Friday that starting cornerback KeiVarae Russell, leading returning receiver DaVaris Daniels, defensive end Ishaq Williams, and backup linebacker Kendall Moore were being withheld from practices and games during the investigation.

Kelly says if the players don't return it will be difficult to overcome.