2024 NFL Draft Team Preview: Michigan Wolverines

After a tremendous season last year that nearly saw Michigan in the National Championship game, the Wolverines are out to prove that they’re one of the best teams in college football. As they lost a few key contributors to the NFL Draft from their star-studded team, they also returned some of their pivotal playmakers.

With hopes sky-high in Ann Arbor, Michigan, for the upcoming season, Big Blue also has several NFL Draft prospects that will make an impact at the next level. Here are the top players to watch this year when the 2024 NFL Draft process begins.

5. #65 iOL Zak Zinter

Zinter showcases several notable strengths, including his high football IQ, which enables him to excel in reading defenses, making quick decisions, and effective communication with teammates. Zinter’s sound technique, including precise hand placement, leverage, and footwork, contributes to his control and engagement with defenders. He boasts upper-body strength and physicality, valuable for both pass protection and run blocking.

However, he could improve his NFL Draft stock by maintaining consistency, especially under pressure or against elite opponents, and maintaining a low pad level for leverage. His development could see his game resemble linemen like Cody Whitehair or Brandon Scherff. Overall, Zinter has proven to be a valuable asset on the Joe Moore Award-winning offensive line and is one of the best interior offensive linemen in the upcoming NFL Draft.

4. #7 RB Donovan Edwards

Edwards, a highly-touted running back, stands out for his explosive athleticism, versatility, and big-play potential. He’s made a significant impact at the college level and has the potential to make a huge jump after another year of development. Edwards possesses a unique blend of agility and versatility, making him a dynamic threat. His most important strength is his remarkable athleticism, distinguished by tumultuous bursts and breakaway speed, making him a constant playmaker as both a ball carrier and receiver.

Edwards also displays elusiveness, strong hands, and proficient route-running, contributing to his reliability in the passing game. His vision as a runner is another asset. To reach his full potential, Edwards can improve in areas like pass protection, adding strength to enhance his ability to break tackles and improve his ball security. As he currently shares time with Corum, the dynamic duo both have the potential to be starting NFL backs.

3. #9 QB J.J. McCarthy

McCarthy boasts remarkable arm strength and precision, excelling in deep throws and tight-window passes. He demonstrates composure in the pocket, navigating pressure situations skillfully. McCarthy’s high football IQ enables him to read defenses and make quick decisions, with leadership qualities that are shown on and off the field. Additionally, his above-average athleticism makes him a dual-threat quarterback.

However, McCarthy could improve his ability to read the field, especially against complex defenses, and refine his footwork. Overall, McCarthy is a promising quarterback with the potential to be a high NFL Draft pick, with his arm talent, football IQ, and athleticism as key assets.

2. #94 iDL Kris Jenkins

Jenkins is a promising NFL draft prospect who is praised for his rare blend of athleticism and agility. His speed and movement skills align with Michigan’s tradition of producing elite defensive linemen. Jenkins’ reputation as a run-stopper has garnered attention from teams seeking to bolster their run defense. His combination of strength and agility allows him to disrupt plays effectively, plugging gaps and recovering quickly from cut blocks.

In pass-rushing situations, his quickness and work ethic shine as he’s able to get off of interior blocks. Jenkins’ tackling is marked by strength, anchoring, shedding, and pursuing ball carriers effectively. Despite these strengths, he faces limitations, particularly in tackling range and closing speed. While he may lack explosiveness as a pass rusher, Jenkins’ potential as a run-stuffer remains notable. As a player selected in early first-round NFL mock drafts, he holds a lot of promise as a high selection.

1. #2 RB Blake Corum

Corum, the dynamic running back, is known for his exceptional speed, agility, and versatility in both running and passing plays. Despite his smaller stature, he’s a highly effective and explosive playmaker for the Wolverines. To add to his strengths, his receiving ability, good vision, and ball security stand out on film.

Corum could focus on improving in pass protection by refining his blocking technique. With his size come durability concerns at the next level, but with continued development, his game resembles NFL backs like Alvin Kamara or Tarik Cohen. He’s an electrifying player to watch with the potential to be one of the best running backs in the NFL Draft. Look for Corum as a top target in your dynasty rookie drafts as well.

Honorable Mention

#14 WR Roman Wilson
#6 WR Cornelius Johnson
#78 OT Myles Hinton
#5 EDGE Josaiah Stewart
#32 EDGE Jaylen Harrell
#25 LB Junior Colson
#12 CB Josh Wallace
#9 S Rod Moore
#0 S Mike Sainristil

Michigan Wolverine’s 2023 Schedule

Prediction: 12-0

DATE	OPPONENT
Sat, Sep 2	vsEast Carolina
Sat, Sep 9	vsUNLV
Sat, Sep 16	vsBowling Green
Sat, Sep 23	vsRutgers
Sat, Sep 30	@Nebraska
Sat, Oct 7	@Minnesota
Sat, Oct 14	vsIndiana
Sat, Oct 21	@Michigan State
Sat, Nov 4	vsPurdue
Sat, Nov 11	@Penn State
Sat, Nov 18	@Maryland
Sat, Nov 25	vsOhio State