From NFL greats Paul Seymour (Royal Oak Shrine, U-M), Pete Metzelaars (Portage Central, Wabash College), Rodney Holman (Ypsilanti, Tulane), Ron Kramer (East Detroit, U-M) and Fred Arbanas (Redford St. Mary, MSU) to recent pro standouts Antonio Gates (Detroit Central, Kent State), Tony Scheffler (Chelsea, WMU), Kellen Davis (Adrian, MSU) and Dion Sims (Orchard Lake St. Mary's, MSU), the state of Michigan has traditionally churned out big-time tight end talent year after year.
The class of 2016 is stacked from top to bottom with high level Division I tight end prospects this season. Here are the top 10 tight end recruits for Michigan's class of 2016.
Top 10 tight end prospects for Michigan's class of 2016 --
1. Cedric Lattimore-6-5, 265-Detroit East English- I know he's destined for the D-line at the next level, but he's an absolute load on the offensive side of the ball, as well. He's simply a dominating two-way player. Verbal to Iowa.
2. Josh Eldridge-6-4, 245-Clintondale-Like Lattimore, could possibly play defense in college. He's also a talented DE for the Dragons. Big, strong and mobile, Eldridge is a match-up problem for any defender. Verbal to CMU.
3. Keidren Davis-6-5, 230-Grand Rapids Union-Best D-I prospect at Union in decades. Big Ten body and speed. I think the upside for Davis is as high or higher than any other player on this list. The Rockets are getting a steal. Verbal to Toledo.
4. Jaye Patrick-6-5, 220-Detroit Western-Unbelievable athletic talent. Helped the Cowboys capture the Class A basketball state championship last winter. Long arms and leaping ability make Patrick a big-time prospect. U-M recruiting hard.
5. Evan Conn-6-5, 220-DeWitt-Not getting much talk statewide or throughout the Midwest, but Conn is one of Michigan's best. Another top-notch hoops player, Conn runs a 4.8 40 and can jump out of the proverbial "gym." Also a D-I LB-DE prospect.
6. Riley Woolford-6-3, 245-Monroe St. Mary Catholic Central-A two-way starter for the defending Division 6 state champions, Woolford is arguably the best blocking TE in Michigan. Also a bruising DE for the Falcons, Woolford is a throw-back type player who is physical and rugged.
7. Jaylon Moore-6-4, 260-Detroit Consortium-Could project to OT at the next level, Moore is a dominating force for the Cougars. Another basketball standout, Moore has excellent footwork and quickness for a player his size. Verbal to WMU.
8. Drew Beesley-6-3, 225-Warren DeLaSalle-Returning two-way starter for the defending Division 2 state champion Pilots. Beesley is an excellent blocker for DeLaSalle, one of the top programs in the Midwest. Also stout DE. Could play either position in college. Verbal to Bowling Green State.
9. Mitch Heaton-6-6, 215-Clarkston-One of only three juniors to start for the two-time defending Division 1 state champion Wolves last season. Heaton has the height and frame to project out to 6-6, 255 or so at the next level. Big-time prospect from one of Michigan's best programs.
10. Caleb Symons-6-4, 210-New Lothrop-One of my top sleepers. From one of the best small school programs in Michigan, Symons is a beast on both sides of the football for the Hornets. Extremely physical, Symons was state runner-up in wrestling last year at 189 in Division 4. He was a key member on New Lothrop's D-4 state championship grappling squad a season ago. He runs a 4.8 40. On the gridiron, he helped lead the Hornets to the D-7 state quarterfinals (regionals), losing to eventual state champion Detroit Loyola.
Other top TE prospects for Michigan's class of 2016- Jaylen Bradley-6-3, 230-Flint Carman-Ainsworth (one of Flint's top prospects, also hoops player), Nolan Givan-6-4, 225-Berkley (speed, size and length make Givan a top prospect), Mitch Heimbuch-6-3, 225-Romeo, Nathan Skene-6-3, 220-Hartland, Landin Mitchell-6-4, 240-Goodrich, Jordan Hendricks-6-4, 240-Milan, Shane Fugate-6-2, 220-Dearborn Divine Child, Steve Glenn-6-3, 250-Lincoln Park (also talented QB, runs 4.7 40), Connor Sisty-6-3, 215-Ida, Max Thrower-6-4, 220-Royal Oak Shrine (Interesting prospect, runs 4.5 40, could play WR or switch to defensive side of football at next level).
Friday, July 31, 2015
Saturday, July 18, 2015
Michigan's top 10 defensive backs for class of 2016
For any Division I college football coach or recruiter, the state of Michigan is an absolute must stop if searching for defensive backfield help. For the Great Lakes State's five D-I playing colleges, finding and signing big-time, elite talent in the secondary should be as simple as looking within their own backyard. As is the case most years, Michigan has some of the best prospects in the country suiting up this upcoming season in the defensive backfield.
Traditionally a strong state when it comes to producing and developing DB talent, Michigan's class of 2016 is well-stocked with Big Ten-level players roaming the secondary this year. Here are the Great Lakes State's top 10 defensive back recruits for the class of 2016. As usual, every player on this list is without a doubt a top-tier D-I prospect.
Top 10 defensive backs for Michigan's class of 2016-
1. Demetric Vance-6-2, 200-Detroit Cass Tech-Punishing hitter from the safety position. Also excellent coverage skills for a player his size. Runs 4.4 40. Complete package. Verbal to MSU.
2. Stefan Claiborne-6-2, 185-Clinton Township Chippewa Valley-Besides Detroit King's Donnie Corley (Michigan's No. 6 overall prospect), Claiborne arguably is the state's top two-way player. A do-it-all type performer, Claiborne excels in all three phases of the game. Last season he had 83 tackles and one interception returned for a TD, 25 receptions for 10 TDs and six blocked kicks. Runs 4.5 40. Illinois, Iowa offers.
3. Hunter Broersma-6-1, 185-Muskegon Mona Shores-Another two-way standout. Could play DB or WR at next level. Runs 4.5 40. Helped lead Mona Shores to D-2 state runner-up last season. Verbal to WMU.
4. Lavert Hill-5-10, 170-Detroit King-Pure lockdown-type corner with smooth hips and quick feet. Sticks like glue to opposing receivers. 4.4 speed. Verbal to Penn State.
5. Devin Taylor-6-1, 175-Lansing Sexton-Big, physical cornerback with 4.5 speed. Led Sexton to D-4 state runner-up a year ago. Big Ten-level body, speed. Illinois, Indiana, Purdue, etc. need to sign this DB stud.
6. Deandre Oakes-Owens-6-1, 175-Muskegon Mona Shores-Another big-time talent from blue collar, football talent-rich city off the shore of Lake Michigan. Transfer from Muskegon Reeths-Puffer. Muskegon Chronicle Dream Team selection last season after intercepting six passes and recording 28 tackles. Somewhat of a sleeper, but a must-see for D-I recruiters.
7. Mark Wilson-6-1, 185-Detroit Renaissance-Earned Detroit Free Press All-Detroit first team accolades last season. Also skilled WR. Teammate OT Alaric Jackson (6-7, 285, state's No. 6 OL prospect) gets a lot of attention and deservedly so, but Wilson is also high-level D-I material.
8. Marquis Smith-5-11, 175-Ypsilanti-Can play multiple positions on the football field. All-around player with speed and natural football instincts. Ann Arbor All-Area selection a year ago. Verbal to Kansas.
9. Traivon Clayton-5-10, 175-Dearborn Heights Robichaud-Detroit News All-Metro West first team last season. Intercepted five passes, returning two for TDs. Also had 52 catches as WR for 1,034 yards and 16 TDs. Runs 4.4 40.
10. Gage Kreski-6-3, 190-St.Ignace- Top recruit in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Best DB prospect from U.P. since Escanaba's Dean Altobelli (MSU starter in mid-1980s). Already a two-time U.P. Dream Team selection. Last season was named co-Defensive Player of the Year in the U.P. Also named to Michigan's Associated Press Division 7-8 All-State first team team last season. A two-sport standout, Kreski also earned Class D All-State first team honors last season for basketball.
Other top DB prospects for Michigan's class of 2016 (all are D-I recruits at some level)-- Guy Brent-6-1, 175-Ann Arbor Skyline (Ann Arbor All-Area last year), Hassam Hachem-5-10, 175-Dearborn Fordson (three-year starter at legendary suburban Detroit program, Detroit News All-Metro West first team a year ago, with six interceptions and one returned for TD), Tylen Redding-6-2, 170-Warren Mott (seven interceptions last year, Detroit News All-Metro East first team, verbal to Bowling Green State), Darece Roberson-5-10, 165-Muskegon Mona Shores (4.4 40, led Mona Shores to D-2 state runner-up last season, verbal to WMU), Cyntell Williams-6-0, 175-Battle Creek Central (named to Battle Creek Enquirer All-City first team last year, 4.5 40), Jakkar Jackson-5-10, 175-Farmington (Verbal to CMU), Navon Mosley-6-0, 180-West Bloomfield (Verbal to Purdue), Jake Martin-5-10, 175-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Northern (Grand Rapids All-East pick last season, three interceptions, also 3,000 all-purpose yards on offense), Alonzo McCoy-5-10, 175-Redford Thurston (Detroit Free Press All-West first team a year ago, with seven interceptions and 56 tackles, verbal to Toledo), Jared Stephens-6-0, 190-Canton, Tru Wilson-5-11, 180-Warren DeLaSalle (returning starter for D-2 state champions), Tyler Bradfield-6-0, 185-Rockford (earned Michigan Associated Press Division 1-2 All-State first team honors last season), Dontre Boyd-5-11, 175-Detroit King (Verbal to WMU), Marlon Dorsey-6-1, 170-East Kentwood, Lucas Thompson-6-0, 175-Grand Rapids Christian, Justin Myrick-5-10, 180-Orchard Lake St. Mary's (helped lead St. Mary's to D-3 state championship last season, also talented RB), Tyler Cochran-6-2, 180-Orchard Lake St. Mary's (teamed with Myrick in talented backfield for state champion Eaglets), Corrin Jones-6-0, 175-Detroit Mumford (named to Associated Press Division 3-4 All-State first team a year ago), Tee'Ondre Harvey-6-1, 175-Detroit Mumford (teams with Corrin Jones for one of state's most dynamic corner combos, verbal to CMU), James Cesear-6-0, 185-Detroit East English Village, Jelani Taylor-5-11, 185-Flint Beecher (Flint Journal Dream Team pick, five interceptions and 72 tackles last season, 4.5 40), Jacarius Scott-6-0, 165-Muskegon (returning starter for D-3 state runner-up), Amaan Payne-6-0, 200-Holt (4.5 40), Jaylen Wiggins-6-0, 165-Lake Orion (Verbal to Toledo), Jesse Johnson-5-11, 190-Detroit Pershing (Illinois offer), Brandon Beane-6-2, 190-Baldwin (also D-I level WR prospect, one of northern Michigan's best), Kistin Branson-5-10, 190-Lansing Sexton (returning starter for D-4 state runner-up), DeQuan Kendle-6-2, 185-Hamtramck (4.5 40), Dante Razzano-6-2, 190-Edwardsburg, Raymond Blevins-5-10, 165-Detroit Southeastern (runs 4.4 40, arguably best prospect out of Southeastern since Spartans William Gholston and Ed Davis), Otis Jackson-6-0, 175-Saginaw Heritage (Big corner with 4.4 speed, also talented WR), Khylin Barton-6-3, 185-Zeeland East, Samaad Ali-6-1, 190-Birmingham Groves, Justin Clark-5-11, 165-West Bloomfield (Verbal to Toledo), Evan Foster-6-1, 190-West Bloomfield (Verbal to Bowling Green State).
Traditionally a strong state when it comes to producing and developing DB talent, Michigan's class of 2016 is well-stocked with Big Ten-level players roaming the secondary this year. Here are the Great Lakes State's top 10 defensive back recruits for the class of 2016. As usual, every player on this list is without a doubt a top-tier D-I prospect.
Top 10 defensive backs for Michigan's class of 2016-
1. Demetric Vance-6-2, 200-Detroit Cass Tech-Punishing hitter from the safety position. Also excellent coverage skills for a player his size. Runs 4.4 40. Complete package. Verbal to MSU.
2. Stefan Claiborne-6-2, 185-Clinton Township Chippewa Valley-Besides Detroit King's Donnie Corley (Michigan's No. 6 overall prospect), Claiborne arguably is the state's top two-way player. A do-it-all type performer, Claiborne excels in all three phases of the game. Last season he had 83 tackles and one interception returned for a TD, 25 receptions for 10 TDs and six blocked kicks. Runs 4.5 40. Illinois, Iowa offers.
3. Hunter Broersma-6-1, 185-Muskegon Mona Shores-Another two-way standout. Could play DB or WR at next level. Runs 4.5 40. Helped lead Mona Shores to D-2 state runner-up last season. Verbal to WMU.
4. Lavert Hill-5-10, 170-Detroit King-Pure lockdown-type corner with smooth hips and quick feet. Sticks like glue to opposing receivers. 4.4 speed. Verbal to Penn State.
5. Devin Taylor-6-1, 175-Lansing Sexton-Big, physical cornerback with 4.5 speed. Led Sexton to D-4 state runner-up a year ago. Big Ten-level body, speed. Illinois, Indiana, Purdue, etc. need to sign this DB stud.
6. Deandre Oakes-Owens-6-1, 175-Muskegon Mona Shores-Another big-time talent from blue collar, football talent-rich city off the shore of Lake Michigan. Transfer from Muskegon Reeths-Puffer. Muskegon Chronicle Dream Team selection last season after intercepting six passes and recording 28 tackles. Somewhat of a sleeper, but a must-see for D-I recruiters.
7. Mark Wilson-6-1, 185-Detroit Renaissance-Earned Detroit Free Press All-Detroit first team accolades last season. Also skilled WR. Teammate OT Alaric Jackson (6-7, 285, state's No. 6 OL prospect) gets a lot of attention and deservedly so, but Wilson is also high-level D-I material.
8. Marquis Smith-5-11, 175-Ypsilanti-Can play multiple positions on the football field. All-around player with speed and natural football instincts. Ann Arbor All-Area selection a year ago. Verbal to Kansas.
9. Traivon Clayton-5-10, 175-Dearborn Heights Robichaud-Detroit News All-Metro West first team last season. Intercepted five passes, returning two for TDs. Also had 52 catches as WR for 1,034 yards and 16 TDs. Runs 4.4 40.
10. Gage Kreski-6-3, 190-St.Ignace- Top recruit in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Best DB prospect from U.P. since Escanaba's Dean Altobelli (MSU starter in mid-1980s). Already a two-time U.P. Dream Team selection. Last season was named co-Defensive Player of the Year in the U.P. Also named to Michigan's Associated Press Division 7-8 All-State first team team last season. A two-sport standout, Kreski also earned Class D All-State first team honors last season for basketball.
Other top DB prospects for Michigan's class of 2016 (all are D-I recruits at some level)-- Guy Brent-6-1, 175-Ann Arbor Skyline (Ann Arbor All-Area last year), Hassam Hachem-5-10, 175-Dearborn Fordson (three-year starter at legendary suburban Detroit program, Detroit News All-Metro West first team a year ago, with six interceptions and one returned for TD), Tylen Redding-6-2, 170-Warren Mott (seven interceptions last year, Detroit News All-Metro East first team, verbal to Bowling Green State), Darece Roberson-5-10, 165-Muskegon Mona Shores (4.4 40, led Mona Shores to D-2 state runner-up last season, verbal to WMU), Cyntell Williams-6-0, 175-Battle Creek Central (named to Battle Creek Enquirer All-City first team last year, 4.5 40), Jakkar Jackson-5-10, 175-Farmington (Verbal to CMU), Navon Mosley-6-0, 180-West Bloomfield (Verbal to Purdue), Jake Martin-5-10, 175-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Northern (Grand Rapids All-East pick last season, three interceptions, also 3,000 all-purpose yards on offense), Alonzo McCoy-5-10, 175-Redford Thurston (Detroit Free Press All-West first team a year ago, with seven interceptions and 56 tackles, verbal to Toledo), Jared Stephens-6-0, 190-Canton, Tru Wilson-5-11, 180-Warren DeLaSalle (returning starter for D-2 state champions), Tyler Bradfield-6-0, 185-Rockford (earned Michigan Associated Press Division 1-2 All-State first team honors last season), Dontre Boyd-5-11, 175-Detroit King (Verbal to WMU), Marlon Dorsey-6-1, 170-East Kentwood, Lucas Thompson-6-0, 175-Grand Rapids Christian, Justin Myrick-5-10, 180-Orchard Lake St. Mary's (helped lead St. Mary's to D-3 state championship last season, also talented RB), Tyler Cochran-6-2, 180-Orchard Lake St. Mary's (teamed with Myrick in talented backfield for state champion Eaglets), Corrin Jones-6-0, 175-Detroit Mumford (named to Associated Press Division 3-4 All-State first team a year ago), Tee'Ondre Harvey-6-1, 175-Detroit Mumford (teams with Corrin Jones for one of state's most dynamic corner combos, verbal to CMU), James Cesear-6-0, 185-Detroit East English Village, Jelani Taylor-5-11, 185-Flint Beecher (Flint Journal Dream Team pick, five interceptions and 72 tackles last season, 4.5 40), Jacarius Scott-6-0, 165-Muskegon (returning starter for D-3 state runner-up), Amaan Payne-6-0, 200-Holt (4.5 40), Jaylen Wiggins-6-0, 165-Lake Orion (Verbal to Toledo), Jesse Johnson-5-11, 190-Detroit Pershing (Illinois offer), Brandon Beane-6-2, 190-Baldwin (also D-I level WR prospect, one of northern Michigan's best), Kistin Branson-5-10, 190-Lansing Sexton (returning starter for D-4 state runner-up), DeQuan Kendle-6-2, 185-Hamtramck (4.5 40), Dante Razzano-6-2, 190-Edwardsburg, Raymond Blevins-5-10, 165-Detroit Southeastern (runs 4.4 40, arguably best prospect out of Southeastern since Spartans William Gholston and Ed Davis), Otis Jackson-6-0, 175-Saginaw Heritage (Big corner with 4.4 speed, also talented WR), Khylin Barton-6-3, 185-Zeeland East, Samaad Ali-6-1, 190-Birmingham Groves, Justin Clark-5-11, 165-West Bloomfield (Verbal to Toledo), Evan Foster-6-1, 190-West Bloomfield (Verbal to Bowling Green State).
Friday, July 17, 2015
Michigan's top 10 linebackers for the class of 2016
From NFL legends Brad Van Pelt (Owosso, MSU), Carl Banks (Flint Beecher, MSU), Thomas "Pepper" Johnson (Detroit Mackenzie, Ohio State) and Dan Currie (Detroit St. Anthony, MSU, No. 3 overall pick in 1958 NFL draft, three-time All-Pro and two-time NFL champion with the Green Bay Packers in 1961 and 1962) to current NFL standouts David Harris (Grand Rapids Ottawa Hills, U-M, NY Jets), Connor Barwin (U-D Jesuit, Cincinnati, Philadelphia Eagles), Brad Jones (East Lansing, Colorado, Philadelphia Eagles) and LaMarr Woodley (Saginaw, U-M, Arizona Cardinals), the state of Michigan has produced some of the finest linebackers ever to play the game.
The class of 2016 in Michigan is overflowing with Division I college football talent and skill at the linebacker position. With size, speed and ability in abundance, each player listed below is a D-I recruit, in my opinion. Here are Michigan's top 10 linebacker prospects for the class of 2016.
Top 10 linebackers for Michigan's class of 2016--
1. Daelin Hayes-6-3, 245-Ann Arbor Skyline-Freakish athletic talent, with elite size/speed combo. Runs 4.5 40. Michigan's No. 2 overall recruit. Verbal to USC.
2. Eric Rogers-6-1, 235-Warren DeLaSalle-Tackling machine in the middle for defending D-2 state champions. Plays some of the top competition in the nation week after week in the rugged Detroit Catholic League. Verbal to WMU.
3. Jalen Cochran-6-4, 230-Canton-Big, lanky suburban Detroit player with speed off the edge. Detroit Free Press All-West first team last season. Could bulk up to play DE at next level.
4. David Reese-6-1, 230-Farmington-Physical, powerful player with agility. Also top FB. Could play either LB or FB at next level. 4.6 40. Verbal to U-M.
5. Brandon Randle-6-2, 215-Battle Creek Central-From legendary program, Randle is latest D-I Bearcat. Talented WR, as well. Never stops, high motor player. Speed to burn for size. 4.6 40. Also has long jumped 22-2. Will easily add 10 to 20 pounds at next level. Verbal to MSU.
6. Armani Posey-6-2, 205-Detroit King-All-around talent. Just a pure football player. Also big time WR. Runs 4.5-4.6 40 range. Detroit News All-Detroit first team last season. Like Brandon Randle, will add weight at next level.
7. Kumehnnu Gwilly-6-2, 205-Utica-Very intriguing player, in my opinion. Top flight tailback (1,944 yds, 15 TDs last season), but I like him as outside LB at next level. Could also make nice safety prospect. Runs 4.6 40. Detroit News All-Metro East first team last year. The Chippewas are getting a good one. Verbal to CMU.
8. Eddie Rhodes-6-4, 240-Detroit Consortium-Amazing physical specimen. Will more than likely bulk up to play DL at next level. Punishing player at the HS level.
9. Nolan Meekhof-6-1, 225-Grandville-One of the Grand Rapids area's best, Meekhof has good speed and instincts. Runs 4.6 40. Also bruising RB.
10. Lawrence Bryant-6-1, 220-Detroit King-Roams sideline to sideline making plays. Was three-year starter at Grosse Pointe North before transferring to King for senior season. Will form dynamic duo with teammate Armani Posey this upcoming season.
Other top LB prospects (all D-I at some level, in my opinion)-Tim Walton-6-2, 225-Detroit Cass Tech (Verbal to Illinois), Anthony Fitzpatrick-5-11, 240-Detroit Loyola (returning two-way starter for defending D-7 state champions), Hunter Buczkowski-6-0, 225-Mount Pleasant (big-time athlete, also All-State baseball player for top program, verbal to CMU), Luke Harris-6-3, 235-New Lothrop, Marcus Wright-6-0, 210-Flint Beecher, Tyler Lamica-6-1, 225-Grand Rapids Christian, Demond Young-6-0, 220-Farmington Hills Harrison, Kane Wendling-6-1, 210-Bay City Western (Bay City Times Dream Team selection), Cornelius Brown-6-1, 215-Lansing Sexton (returning starter for D-4 state runner-up), Trevor Tank-6-2, 225-South Lyon, Brent Brock-6-2, 230-Munising (returning two-way starter for D-8 state runner-up, one of the Upper Peninsula's best), Dennis Fitzsimmons-6-0, 230-Marine City (Division 5-6 All-State last year), Aaron Rahn-6-2, 225-Holland, Tarrion Hill-Mckay-6-1, 210-Muskegon (returning starter for D-3 state runner-up), David Williams-6-3, 225-Holland Christian, Austin Wood-6-1, 220-Berkley, Jeremiah Tyler-6-3, 205-Detroit Country Day (CMU, WMU, Ball State offers), Jalen Wilkerson-6-1, 205-Monroe (Monroe News Defensive Player of the Year last season, 4.6 40), Nate Jones-6-1, 220-Muskegon Catholic Central (will be three-year, two-way starter for defending D-8 state champions), Chris Upright-6-0, 220-Marshall, Spencer Trapiss-6-3, 210-Richmond, Hunter Ward-6-3, 230-Madison Heights Lamphere (Explosive, raw talent, 4.5 40 reported, member of school's 400-meter relay team).
Sunday, May 3, 2015
Michigan's top 10 running backs for the class of 2016
The state of Michigan has produced some of football's greatest running backs. From Heisman Trophy winners Pete Dawkins (1958, Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook, Army) and Mark Ingram Jr. (2009, Flint Southwestern, Alabama, NFL) to Detroit Public School League legends Marion Barber (Detroit Chadsey, Minnesota, NFL), Harlan Huckleby (Detroit Cass Tech, U-M, NFL) and John "Frenchy" Fuqua (Detroit Eastern, Morgan State, NFL) to Tyrone Wheatley (Dearborn Heights Robichaud, U-M, NFL and the best HS player I've ever seen compete in person) to Hall-of-Famer Jerome Bettis (Detroit Mackenzie, Notre Dame, NFL) the Great Lakes State has produced its fair share of big-time running back performers throughout the decades.
Add to that impressive list current NFL running backs Joique Bell (Benton Harbor, Wayne State, Detroit Lions), Jonas Gray (Detroit Country Day, Notre Dame, New England Patriots), George Winn (U-D Jesuit, Cincinnati, Detroit Lions), Glenn Winston (Detroit Denby, Northwood University, Cleveland Browns), Edwin Baker (Oak Park, MSU, New Orleans Saints), Zurlon Tipton (Sterling Heights Parkway Christian, CMU, Indianapolis Colts), recently drafted Jeremy Langford (Westland John Glenn, MSU, Chicago Bears) and Ingram (Flint Southwestern, Alabama, New Orleans Saints) and one can see quite clearly Michigan is one of the country's best at developing running back talent.
As in year's past, Michigan's class of 2016 is loaded with Division I college football running back prospects. Here are Michigan's top 10 running back recruits for the class of 2016 (all are D-I recruits)--
1. Matt Falcon-6-1, 215-Southfield-Combines speed, with power. Total package. 4.4 40 speed. Verbal to U-M.
2. Martell Pettaway-5-9, 205-Detroit King-Speed and quick feet. I think a bit similar to recent Detroit Lions draft pick Ameer Abdullah (Nebraska). 4.5 40. Iowa and MSU offers. Verbal to West Virginia.
3. Ba Blamo-6-0, 205-Grand Ledge-Could be a standout at LB at the next level, as well. One of state's top sprinters (10.9 100 meters) and wrestlers. 4.4 40. Has brute power and raw talent. Is physical and runs angry. Not well known, but a bonafide D-I talent. One of the Lansing area's best.
4. Nolan Eriksen-5-9, 195-Clarkston-Led Wolves to Division 1 state championship last season. Game-breaker and ankle-breaker with shifty, quick moves and speed. 4.4 40. Rushed for 1,700 yds. and 26 TDs last year.
5. Emanuel Jackson-6-0, 180-Novi-One of the most versatile players in Michigan. Could play RB, WR, DB at the next level. Rushed for 1,061 yds. and 16 TDs, caught 43 passes for 624 yds. and 5 TDs, plus had 2 kickoff returns for TDs a season ago. Detroit News first team All-Metro North. Verbal to WMU.
6. Dre'on Kemp-5-10, 185-Battle Creek Lakeview-Rushed for 1,512 yds. and 22 TDs last season. 4.5 speed. Battle Creek Enquirer Dream Team. No. 2-ranked recruit in the Cereal City behind LB Brandon Randle (6-2, 215, Battle Creek Central).
7. Trent Stone-5-11, 190-Holt-Rushed for 1,642 yds. and 21 TDs, including 7 TDs in one game last season (one off the state record). Selected to Lansing State Journal Dream Team.
8. Monterio Smith-5-10, 190-Comstock Park-Grand Rapids area standout. Threat running and receiving. Rushed for 1,303 yds. and 13 TDs and had 35 rec. for 506 yds, and 5 TDs last year. Tons of speed. Named to Grand Rapids All-North squad.
9. Corey Pryor II-5-11, 180-Jackson-Top prospect on either side of the football at RB or DB. Jackson Citizen-Patriot Dream Team pick. 4.4 speed. Has run 22.1 200 meters and 14.6 110-meter hurdles. Father Corey played RB at MSU in late 1980s.
10. (Tie) Cedric Boswell-5-11, 175-Birmingham Groves- Speed, speed and more speed. Runs 4.3 40, rushed for over 1,300 yards last season, finished second in state in 100 meters, running a 10.7. Verbal to Iowa; Austin Petrie-5-10, 210-Livonia Stevenson-Power runner with break-away speed. 4.5 40. Also a hard-hitting strong safety prospect. Detroit News All-Metro West selection.
Other top running back prospects- Isaiah Miller-5-10, 185-Edwardsburg (Detroit Free Press Division 4 All-State, rushed for 1,727 yds. and 26 TDs last year), Brandon Adams-5-11, 185-Orchard Lake St. Mary's (returning starter for D-3 state champions, also talented receiver and kicker, Detroit News All-Metro North pick), D.J. Jones-6-2, 240-Hillsdale, Steve Linton-5-8, 165-St. Johns (4.4 40, 22.2 200 meters, 48.9 400-meter run, track/football standout for St. Johns, 2015 state champion in 400-meter run), Hulas Givan-5-10, 205-Saginaw Arthur Hill, Joey Clifford-6-1, 220-Brighton (4.6 40), Kyle Brunson-6-1, 205-Farmington, Quentin Taylor-6-2, 210-New Lothrop (power runner, also talented LB prospect, Div. 7-8 All-State), Reid Burton-6-2, 220-East Lansing, Michael Marston-6-0, 195-Lapeer (Flint Journal Dream Team, rushed for 1,506 yds. and 21 TDs last season).
Add to that impressive list current NFL running backs Joique Bell (Benton Harbor, Wayne State, Detroit Lions), Jonas Gray (Detroit Country Day, Notre Dame, New England Patriots), George Winn (U-D Jesuit, Cincinnati, Detroit Lions), Glenn Winston (Detroit Denby, Northwood University, Cleveland Browns), Edwin Baker (Oak Park, MSU, New Orleans Saints), Zurlon Tipton (Sterling Heights Parkway Christian, CMU, Indianapolis Colts), recently drafted Jeremy Langford (Westland John Glenn, MSU, Chicago Bears) and Ingram (Flint Southwestern, Alabama, New Orleans Saints) and one can see quite clearly Michigan is one of the country's best at developing running back talent.
As in year's past, Michigan's class of 2016 is loaded with Division I college football running back prospects. Here are Michigan's top 10 running back recruits for the class of 2016 (all are D-I recruits)--
1. Matt Falcon-6-1, 215-Southfield-Combines speed, with power. Total package. 4.4 40 speed. Verbal to U-M.
2. Martell Pettaway-5-9, 205-Detroit King-Speed and quick feet. I think a bit similar to recent Detroit Lions draft pick Ameer Abdullah (Nebraska). 4.5 40. Iowa and MSU offers. Verbal to West Virginia.
3. Ba Blamo-6-0, 205-Grand Ledge-Could be a standout at LB at the next level, as well. One of state's top sprinters (10.9 100 meters) and wrestlers. 4.4 40. Has brute power and raw talent. Is physical and runs angry. Not well known, but a bonafide D-I talent. One of the Lansing area's best.
4. Nolan Eriksen-5-9, 195-Clarkston-Led Wolves to Division 1 state championship last season. Game-breaker and ankle-breaker with shifty, quick moves and speed. 4.4 40. Rushed for 1,700 yds. and 26 TDs last year.
5. Emanuel Jackson-6-0, 180-Novi-One of the most versatile players in Michigan. Could play RB, WR, DB at the next level. Rushed for 1,061 yds. and 16 TDs, caught 43 passes for 624 yds. and 5 TDs, plus had 2 kickoff returns for TDs a season ago. Detroit News first team All-Metro North. Verbal to WMU.
6. Dre'on Kemp-5-10, 185-Battle Creek Lakeview-Rushed for 1,512 yds. and 22 TDs last season. 4.5 speed. Battle Creek Enquirer Dream Team. No. 2-ranked recruit in the Cereal City behind LB Brandon Randle (6-2, 215, Battle Creek Central).
7. Trent Stone-5-11, 190-Holt-Rushed for 1,642 yds. and 21 TDs, including 7 TDs in one game last season (one off the state record). Selected to Lansing State Journal Dream Team.
8. Monterio Smith-5-10, 190-Comstock Park-Grand Rapids area standout. Threat running and receiving. Rushed for 1,303 yds. and 13 TDs and had 35 rec. for 506 yds, and 5 TDs last year. Tons of speed. Named to Grand Rapids All-North squad.
9. Corey Pryor II-5-11, 180-Jackson-Top prospect on either side of the football at RB or DB. Jackson Citizen-Patriot Dream Team pick. 4.4 speed. Has run 22.1 200 meters and 14.6 110-meter hurdles. Father Corey played RB at MSU in late 1980s.
10. (Tie) Cedric Boswell-5-11, 175-Birmingham Groves- Speed, speed and more speed. Runs 4.3 40, rushed for over 1,300 yards last season, finished second in state in 100 meters, running a 10.7. Verbal to Iowa; Austin Petrie-5-10, 210-Livonia Stevenson-Power runner with break-away speed. 4.5 40. Also a hard-hitting strong safety prospect. Detroit News All-Metro West selection.
Other top running back prospects- Isaiah Miller-5-10, 185-Edwardsburg (Detroit Free Press Division 4 All-State, rushed for 1,727 yds. and 26 TDs last year), Brandon Adams-5-11, 185-Orchard Lake St. Mary's (returning starter for D-3 state champions, also talented receiver and kicker, Detroit News All-Metro North pick), D.J. Jones-6-2, 240-Hillsdale, Steve Linton-5-8, 165-St. Johns (4.4 40, 22.2 200 meters, 48.9 400-meter run, track/football standout for St. Johns, 2015 state champion in 400-meter run), Hulas Givan-5-10, 205-Saginaw Arthur Hill, Joey Clifford-6-1, 220-Brighton (4.6 40), Kyle Brunson-6-1, 205-Farmington, Quentin Taylor-6-2, 210-New Lothrop (power runner, also talented LB prospect, Div. 7-8 All-State), Reid Burton-6-2, 220-East Lansing, Michael Marston-6-0, 195-Lapeer (Flint Journal Dream Team, rushed for 1,506 yds. and 21 TDs last season).
Friday, April 24, 2015
Michigan's top 10 wide receivers for the class of 2016
With three of the all-time top 30 in receptions in NFL history hailing from the state of Michigan (No. 13 Derrick Mason, MSU, Detroit Mumford; No. 16 Muhsin Muhammad, MSU, Lansing Waverly; No. 26 Andre Rison, MSU, Flint Northwestern), the Great Lakes State is routinely one of the country's best when it comes to cultivating and developing big-time Division I college football talent at the wide receiver position.
With players such as U-M recruit Brian Cole (6-2, 210, 4.3 40) of Saginaw Heritage, WMU signee Anton Curtis (6-3, 195, 4.5) of Detroit East English Village, CMU recruit Rayshawn Wilborn (6-4, 215, 4.5) out of Lansing Sexton and U-M recruit Grant Perry (6-0, 185, 4.4) of Birmingham Brother Rice leading last season's wide receiver group, the class of 2015 had some of Michigan's best receiver prospects in years. Add in CMU QB recruit (and All-State basketball player, Class D Player of the Year and a high D-I recruit in hoops) Brandon Childress (6-3, 195) out of Baldwin, a small northern Michigan high school, who I believe, if he isn't quarterbacking the Chippewas someday, could become an All-American-type level receiver at the next level, and the Great Lakes State was absolutely stacked at the wideout position last year.
For Michigan's class of 2016, the riches at the receiver position just keep pouring out. Incredibly, this season's group of receivers, from top to bottom and pound-for-pound, might be the state's best in years, if that's even conceivable, considering the depth of top-flight talent Michigan has produced at the position throughout recent seasons. That being said, here are the top 10 wide receivers for the class of 2016 in Michigan. I think it goes without saying each player is a high Division I college football talent.
Top 10 wide receivers for Michigan's class of 2016 --
1. Donnie Corley-6-2, 190-Detroit King-No. 6 overall player in Michigan, caught 62 passes for 1,100 yds. and 16 TDs last year. Also a talented CB, had 11 ints., seven ints. returned for TDs and 38 tackles. MSU, U-M, Notre Dame, OSU, Alabama, Ole Miss, Tennessee, LSU a few of the schools who have offered.
2. Jalen Martin-6-3, 200-Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy-Top flight basketball recruit, unbelievable athlete, speed, size, leaping ability. MSU, U-M recruiting. WMU, EMU already offered.
3. Dez Fitzpatrick-6-3, 190-Waterford Mott-Silky smooth receiver. U-M, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Wake Forest all offered. Verbal to Louisville.
4. Kaleb Perry-6-2, 180-Mount Pleasant-Another D-I level basketball recruit, premier athlete, one of state's top high jumpers. Nightmare for defensive backs to cover -- can outrun, out jump and out-athlete most, if not all, DBs assigned to cover him. 36 rec., 900 yds, 9 TDs a year ago. Verbal to WMU. MSU, U-M also recruited.
5. Daryn Snow-6-3, 190-Portage Northern-One of my top sleepers in Michigan. In a recurring theme, Snow is a talented hoops player (school's leading scorer as soph.). Last season caught 48 passes for 617 yards and 8 TDs. With great size, another match-up problem for opposing DBs. Flying a bit under the radar at the moment, but a legit D-I Big Ten-level wide receiver prospect. Where are Indiana, Purdue, Iowa, Illinois, etc. on this guy?
6. Bailey Edwards-6-2, 185-Chelsea-Ann Arbor All-Area last season, 25 rec., 629 yds., 9 TDs, 4.4 40, little brother of WR Braylon (Harper Wood Bishop Gallagher, U-M, NFL) and RB Berkley (Chelsea, Minnesota). Father Stan played at Detroit Kettering, U-M and the NFL as RB. Minnesota offer. Wisconsin, Purdue also recruiting.
7. Trishton Jackson-6-3, 185-West Bloomfield-Detroit News All-Metro pick as a basketball player this past season. D-I prospect in hoops (varsity starter as frosh). Explosive athlete. Has started at QB since freshman year for West Bloomfield. Threw for over 2,000 yds. and rushed for over 1,000 yds. last season. Could play either QB or WR at next level. One of those freak athletes that can do it all. Verbal to MSU.
8. Simeon Kemp-6-0, 175-Flint Hamady-Flint Journal Dream Team, 35 rec., 1,080 yds., 14 TDs, 2 KO return TDs, 4.4 40. Another player not getting as much publicity statewide or nationally as he deserves. Electric performer on the football field. Small school, big-time talent.
9. Gabe Steed-6-1, 175-Lowell-Maybe most exciting player for the state power Red Arrows since "Mr. Football" Mark Catlin in the early 2000s. Caught 34 passes for 818 yards and 10 TDs a year ago.
10. (tie) Mike Robb-6-6, 200-Midland Dow-Saginaw News Dream Teamer, 47 rec., 606 yds., 9 TDs; Zach Kohn-6-3, 180-Gibraltar Carlson-Detroit Free Press first team All-West, 42 rec., 575 yds., 8 TDs.
Other top wide receivers for Michigan's class of 2016 -- Lindrell Mitchell-5-9, 170-Detroit East English Village (Detroit News All-Metro Detroit), Kobe Burse-6-2, 190-Muskegon Mona Shores (Muskegon Chronicle Dream Team, two-way starter for D-2 state runner-up, verbal to Miami (OH)), Rodney Graves-6-2, 180-Detroit Cody (Big Ten-type talent, runs 4.4 40 and 22.2 200 meters, also shutdown-type cornerback on defense, Purdue, Indiana, Maryland, etc. where are you on this guy?), Tony Palmer-6-0, 180-Lansing Catholic Central (Lansing State Journal Dream Team, starter for D-5 state runner-up), Adam Farah-6-2, 185-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Northern (Verbal to Air Force), Connor Nemmers-6-2, 190-Grand Rapids West Catholic (41 rec., 748 yds., 9 TDs for D-5 state champions, Grand Rapids All-North), Marcel Paul-6-1, 175-Detroit Cass Tech (4.4 40, verbal to Cincinnati), Chris Cartier-6-2, 175-Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes (Detroit News Div. 7-8 All-State), Cooper Cecchini-6-1, 175-Hudsonville (30 rec., 492 yds., 5 TDs, Grand Rapids All-West), Matt Sexton-5-11, 170-Clinton (Verbal to EMU), Dylan Otolski-6-1, 180-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central (38 rec., 729 yds., 7 TDs, Grand Rapids All-East), Gourney Sloan-6-0, 180-East Grand Rapids, Luke DeLong-6-3, 185-Midland, Cortez Chisolm-6-0, 170-Detroit Osborn, Jeb Palka-5-11, 170-Saline (77 rec., 980 yds., 9 TDs for D-1 state runner-up), Jacob Lefevre-6-2, 200-Jackson County Parma Western (Jackson Citizen-Patriot Dream Team, AP Div. 3-4 All-State, 42, rec., 808 yds., 12 TDs), Myles Charley-6-0, 170-Warren DeLaSalle (starter for defending D-2 state champions), Tamarion Johnson-6-4, 195-Southfield Bradford Academy (Verbal to Miami (OH)), Wyatt Plate-5-10, 170-Jackson Lumen Christi (4.3 40, verbal to Ball State), Tyrone Lyte-5-11, 175-Southfield, Chad Gailliard-6-4, 190-Dearborn Edsel Ford, Alex Bock-6-0, 195-Detroit Catholic Central (also top DB prospect, three-year starter at national powerhouse program), James Cooper III-6-3, 185-Muskegon Oakridge, Spence DeMull-6-3, 180-Ithaca (Lansing State Journal Dream Team, 66 rec., 1,193 yds., 16 TDs for D-6 state runner-up).
With players such as U-M recruit Brian Cole (6-2, 210, 4.3 40) of Saginaw Heritage, WMU signee Anton Curtis (6-3, 195, 4.5) of Detroit East English Village, CMU recruit Rayshawn Wilborn (6-4, 215, 4.5) out of Lansing Sexton and U-M recruit Grant Perry (6-0, 185, 4.4) of Birmingham Brother Rice leading last season's wide receiver group, the class of 2015 had some of Michigan's best receiver prospects in years. Add in CMU QB recruit (and All-State basketball player, Class D Player of the Year and a high D-I recruit in hoops) Brandon Childress (6-3, 195) out of Baldwin, a small northern Michigan high school, who I believe, if he isn't quarterbacking the Chippewas someday, could become an All-American-type level receiver at the next level, and the Great Lakes State was absolutely stacked at the wideout position last year.
For Michigan's class of 2016, the riches at the receiver position just keep pouring out. Incredibly, this season's group of receivers, from top to bottom and pound-for-pound, might be the state's best in years, if that's even conceivable, considering the depth of top-flight talent Michigan has produced at the position throughout recent seasons. That being said, here are the top 10 wide receivers for the class of 2016 in Michigan. I think it goes without saying each player is a high Division I college football talent.
Top 10 wide receivers for Michigan's class of 2016 --
1. Donnie Corley-6-2, 190-Detroit King-No. 6 overall player in Michigan, caught 62 passes for 1,100 yds. and 16 TDs last year. Also a talented CB, had 11 ints., seven ints. returned for TDs and 38 tackles. MSU, U-M, Notre Dame, OSU, Alabama, Ole Miss, Tennessee, LSU a few of the schools who have offered.
2. Jalen Martin-6-3, 200-Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy-Top flight basketball recruit, unbelievable athlete, speed, size, leaping ability. MSU, U-M recruiting. WMU, EMU already offered.
3. Dez Fitzpatrick-6-3, 190-Waterford Mott-Silky smooth receiver. U-M, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Wake Forest all offered. Verbal to Louisville.
4. Kaleb Perry-6-2, 180-Mount Pleasant-Another D-I level basketball recruit, premier athlete, one of state's top high jumpers. Nightmare for defensive backs to cover -- can outrun, out jump and out-athlete most, if not all, DBs assigned to cover him. 36 rec., 900 yds, 9 TDs a year ago. Verbal to WMU. MSU, U-M also recruited.
5. Daryn Snow-6-3, 190-Portage Northern-One of my top sleepers in Michigan. In a recurring theme, Snow is a talented hoops player (school's leading scorer as soph.). Last season caught 48 passes for 617 yards and 8 TDs. With great size, another match-up problem for opposing DBs. Flying a bit under the radar at the moment, but a legit D-I Big Ten-level wide receiver prospect. Where are Indiana, Purdue, Iowa, Illinois, etc. on this guy?
6. Bailey Edwards-6-2, 185-Chelsea-Ann Arbor All-Area last season, 25 rec., 629 yds., 9 TDs, 4.4 40, little brother of WR Braylon (Harper Wood Bishop Gallagher, U-M, NFL) and RB Berkley (Chelsea, Minnesota). Father Stan played at Detroit Kettering, U-M and the NFL as RB. Minnesota offer. Wisconsin, Purdue also recruiting.
7. Trishton Jackson-6-3, 185-West Bloomfield-Detroit News All-Metro pick as a basketball player this past season. D-I prospect in hoops (varsity starter as frosh). Explosive athlete. Has started at QB since freshman year for West Bloomfield. Threw for over 2,000 yds. and rushed for over 1,000 yds. last season. Could play either QB or WR at next level. One of those freak athletes that can do it all. Verbal to MSU.
8. Simeon Kemp-6-0, 175-Flint Hamady-Flint Journal Dream Team, 35 rec., 1,080 yds., 14 TDs, 2 KO return TDs, 4.4 40. Another player not getting as much publicity statewide or nationally as he deserves. Electric performer on the football field. Small school, big-time talent.
9. Gabe Steed-6-1, 175-Lowell-Maybe most exciting player for the state power Red Arrows since "Mr. Football" Mark Catlin in the early 2000s. Caught 34 passes for 818 yards and 10 TDs a year ago.
10. (tie) Mike Robb-6-6, 200-Midland Dow-Saginaw News Dream Teamer, 47 rec., 606 yds., 9 TDs; Zach Kohn-6-3, 180-Gibraltar Carlson-Detroit Free Press first team All-West, 42 rec., 575 yds., 8 TDs.
Other top wide receivers for Michigan's class of 2016 -- Lindrell Mitchell-5-9, 170-Detroit East English Village (Detroit News All-Metro Detroit), Kobe Burse-6-2, 190-Muskegon Mona Shores (Muskegon Chronicle Dream Team, two-way starter for D-2 state runner-up, verbal to Miami (OH)), Rodney Graves-6-2, 180-Detroit Cody (Big Ten-type talent, runs 4.4 40 and 22.2 200 meters, also shutdown-type cornerback on defense, Purdue, Indiana, Maryland, etc. where are you on this guy?), Tony Palmer-6-0, 180-Lansing Catholic Central (Lansing State Journal Dream Team, starter for D-5 state runner-up), Adam Farah-6-2, 185-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Northern (Verbal to Air Force), Connor Nemmers-6-2, 190-Grand Rapids West Catholic (41 rec., 748 yds., 9 TDs for D-5 state champions, Grand Rapids All-North), Marcel Paul-6-1, 175-Detroit Cass Tech (4.4 40, verbal to Cincinnati), Chris Cartier-6-2, 175-Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes (Detroit News Div. 7-8 All-State), Cooper Cecchini-6-1, 175-Hudsonville (30 rec., 492 yds., 5 TDs, Grand Rapids All-West), Matt Sexton-5-11, 170-Clinton (Verbal to EMU), Dylan Otolski-6-1, 180-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central (38 rec., 729 yds., 7 TDs, Grand Rapids All-East), Gourney Sloan-6-0, 180-East Grand Rapids, Luke DeLong-6-3, 185-Midland, Cortez Chisolm-6-0, 170-Detroit Osborn, Jeb Palka-5-11, 170-Saline (77 rec., 980 yds., 9 TDs for D-1 state runner-up), Jacob Lefevre-6-2, 200-Jackson County Parma Western (Jackson Citizen-Patriot Dream Team, AP Div. 3-4 All-State, 42, rec., 808 yds., 12 TDs), Myles Charley-6-0, 170-Warren DeLaSalle (starter for defending D-2 state champions), Tamarion Johnson-6-4, 195-Southfield Bradford Academy (Verbal to Miami (OH)), Wyatt Plate-5-10, 170-Jackson Lumen Christi (4.3 40, verbal to Ball State), Tyrone Lyte-5-11, 175-Southfield, Chad Gailliard-6-4, 190-Dearborn Edsel Ford, Alex Bock-6-0, 195-Detroit Catholic Central (also top DB prospect, three-year starter at national powerhouse program), James Cooper III-6-3, 185-Muskegon Oakridge, Spence DeMull-6-3, 180-Ithaca (Lansing State Journal Dream Team, 66 rec., 1,193 yds., 16 TDs for D-6 state runner-up).
Saturday, April 18, 2015
Michigan's top 10 defensive linemen for 2016 class
For anyone who checks out this blog, one would know I consider the big fellas in the trenches on both sides of the line of scrimmage as the most important players on the football field. Yesterday, I listed the top offensive linemen in the state for the class of 2016, so today I'll list my top 10 defensive linemen in Michigan for '16.
As usual, defensive line talent in Michigan is off-the-charts good. If a college coach is looking for pass rush help, the Great Lakes State is a must stop this upcoming season. Michigan is loaded with long, lanky, quick defensive ends with pass rush abilities this year. What's intriguing, however, about this season's class of D-line prospects, is the potential of most of the DE prospects to add substantial weight to their frames and bulk up and be combo-type linemen who can switch from outside to inside and vice-versa at the next level. Add to those prospects, an impressive group of pure defensive tackles and space-eaters up front, and a college coach has all he would need to form a dominating D-line right here in the Great Lakes State.
Top 10 defensive linemen for Michigan's class of 2016 --
1. Lawrence Gordon-6-6, 255-DE-Saginaw Arthur Hill-Unlimited potential. State's next Robaire Smith (Flint Northern, MSU, 11-year NFL career)?
2. Michael Onwenu-6-2, 315-DT-Detroit Cass Tech-Alabama, Ohio State, Miami (Fla.) all offered. Verbal to U-M.
3. Khalid Kareem-6-4, 250-DE-DT-Farmington Hills Harrison-Ohio State, MSU, U-M, Northwestern, Notre Dame all offered. Had 18 sacks last season. Verbal to Alabama.
4. Mark Brooks-6-7, 250-DE-Portland-Huge upside. I see him possibly being a Tyler Hoover (Novi, 6-7, 295 former starting DT for MSU, Rose Bowl champ, currently with NFL's Indianapolis Colts)-type player at the next level eventually. Verbal to WMU.
5. Adetokunbo Ogundeji-6-5, 225-DE-Walled Lake Central-Size, speed, length make Ogundeji a top tier D-I prospect. Oregon, Cal offered. Verbal to Notre Dame.
6. Patrick Mayrand-6-4, 280-DT-Dexter- Big Ten size, with athletic ability. One of the Ann Arbor area's top college prospects.
7. Darrick Gibson-6-2, 305-DT-Chippewa Valley (transfer from Clintondale)- One of the best pure defensive tackle/nose guards in the state. Suburban Detroit potential star at next level. 4.9 40. Best D-line prospect from Clintondale since 2015 Pittsburgh Steelers sixth round draft pick L.T. Walton (6-5, 320, DT, CMU).
8. Gabe Bauman-6-3, 245-DE-Rockford-Grand Rapids area stud from top flight program.
9. Chauncey Golston-6-6, 240-DE-Detroit East English Village-Similar to Arthur Hill's Gordon with huge wingspan and crazy athleticism. Runs 4.7 40. Verbal to Iowa.
10. Dan Perry-6-2, 265-DT-Lapeer-Big time talent. Division 1 (Michigan's large school division) heavyweight state champion wrestler this past winter. Three-year starter on D-line. I project him to 6-2, 295-305 range at next level, with great balance, feet, hands.
--Other top defensive line prospects (all D-I at some level) for Michigan's class of 2016 - Austin Simpson-6-2, 295-DT-Livonia Churchill (4.9 40), Brayton Rzepka-6-5, 270-DT-Coldwater (also top baseball prospect as P-1B), Matthew Lloyd-6-3, 285-DT-NG-Grand Ledge (also one of Michigan's best wrestlers, finished fourth in state as heavyweight last season), Malcolm Strickland-6-4, 250-DE-DT-Belleville, Ronathan Elmore-6-4, 230-DE-Belleville (teams with Malcolm Strickland to form dynamic duo for Tigers), Colin Emmendorfer-6-4, 240-DE-Flushing, Zach VanValkenburg-6-4, 235-DE-Zeeland West (three-year starter, started as soph. on D-3 state title team), Jonathan Brys-6-6, 245-DE-Jackson Lumen Christi (EMU offer, also talented TE), Eyioma Uwozunke-6-5, 255-DE-Southfield Lathrup (from same school as EMU, Detroit Lions starting DE Jason Jones), Dylan Pasquali-6-4, 285-DT-Trenton, Kamar Graves-6-4, 240-DE-Detroit Douglass (also talented TE, Illinois offer), Christian Boyd-6-2, 270-DT-Muskegon Mona Shores (returning starter for D-2 state runner-up), Tyler Shreve-6-4, 255-DE-Walled Lake Western, Carl Myers-6-3, 245-DE-Grand Rapids West Catholic (returning two-way starter for D-5 state champions), Tim Stevens-6-2, 265-DT-Temperance Bedford, Ian McInnis-6-2, 280-DT-Munising (U.P. Dream Team, monster in trenches, returning starter for D-8 state runner-up), Brian Mack-6-3, 225-DE-Grosse Pointe South (All-Detroit Metro East), Brendon Bott-6-4, 255-DT-Grand Rapids Kenowa Hills (All-Grand Rapids North), Kyle Soderberg-6-2, 235-DE-Crystal Falls Forest Park (U.P. Dream Team selection), Blake Roe-6-2, 290-DT-Haslett, Alvin Clemons-6-1, 265-DT-Detroit Cass Tech, Jaylen Browder-6-5, 265-DT-Saginaw Arthur Hill, Britt Swaenepoel-6-2, 280-DT-Napoleon (Jackson Citizen-Patriot Dream Team), Nathan Fox-6-3, 240-DT-Johannesburg-Lewiston (dominant D-lineman "Up North," plus a talented kicker), Jean Paul Nkolo-6-3, 220-DE-East Kentwood, Michael Tabor-6-4, 285-DT-Holland, Jake Tumele-6-3, 230-DE-Muskegon Orchard View (runs 4.8 40), Dylan Swanson-6-4, 270-DT-Detroit King, Andy Maschke-6-2, 275-DT-Hartland, Leon Page-6-3, 220-DE-Detroit King (Verbal to CMU), Eldrick Matthews-6-4, 280-DE-Detroit Cass Tech, Blake Brady-6-2, 220-DE-Macomb Dakota, Wallace Hall-6-4, 250-DT-Ypsilanti, Matt Jelinek-6-4, 230-DE-Suttons Bay (4.7 40, returned fumble 33 yards for TD last year, another "Up North" lineman who will cause havoc all season long), Kevin Koenig-6-4, 235-DE-Laingsburg (one of my top sleepers in Michigan, Division 4 state runner-up wrestler at 215, also plays QB for Laingsburg, great all-around athlete from small school near Lansing).
As usual, defensive line talent in Michigan is off-the-charts good. If a college coach is looking for pass rush help, the Great Lakes State is a must stop this upcoming season. Michigan is loaded with long, lanky, quick defensive ends with pass rush abilities this year. What's intriguing, however, about this season's class of D-line prospects, is the potential of most of the DE prospects to add substantial weight to their frames and bulk up and be combo-type linemen who can switch from outside to inside and vice-versa at the next level. Add to those prospects, an impressive group of pure defensive tackles and space-eaters up front, and a college coach has all he would need to form a dominating D-line right here in the Great Lakes State.
Top 10 defensive linemen for Michigan's class of 2016 --
1. Lawrence Gordon-6-6, 255-DE-Saginaw Arthur Hill-Unlimited potential. State's next Robaire Smith (Flint Northern, MSU, 11-year NFL career)?
2. Michael Onwenu-6-2, 315-DT-Detroit Cass Tech-Alabama, Ohio State, Miami (Fla.) all offered. Verbal to U-M.
3. Khalid Kareem-6-4, 250-DE-DT-Farmington Hills Harrison-Ohio State, MSU, U-M, Northwestern, Notre Dame all offered. Had 18 sacks last season. Verbal to Alabama.
4. Mark Brooks-6-7, 250-DE-Portland-Huge upside. I see him possibly being a Tyler Hoover (Novi, 6-7, 295 former starting DT for MSU, Rose Bowl champ, currently with NFL's Indianapolis Colts)-type player at the next level eventually. Verbal to WMU.
5. Adetokunbo Ogundeji-6-5, 225-DE-Walled Lake Central-Size, speed, length make Ogundeji a top tier D-I prospect. Oregon, Cal offered. Verbal to Notre Dame.
6. Patrick Mayrand-6-4, 280-DT-Dexter- Big Ten size, with athletic ability. One of the Ann Arbor area's top college prospects.
7. Darrick Gibson-6-2, 305-DT-Chippewa Valley (transfer from Clintondale)- One of the best pure defensive tackle/nose guards in the state. Suburban Detroit potential star at next level. 4.9 40. Best D-line prospect from Clintondale since 2015 Pittsburgh Steelers sixth round draft pick L.T. Walton (6-5, 320, DT, CMU).
8. Gabe Bauman-6-3, 245-DE-Rockford-Grand Rapids area stud from top flight program.
9. Chauncey Golston-6-6, 240-DE-Detroit East English Village-Similar to Arthur Hill's Gordon with huge wingspan and crazy athleticism. Runs 4.7 40. Verbal to Iowa.
10. Dan Perry-6-2, 265-DT-Lapeer-Big time talent. Division 1 (Michigan's large school division) heavyweight state champion wrestler this past winter. Three-year starter on D-line. I project him to 6-2, 295-305 range at next level, with great balance, feet, hands.
--Other top defensive line prospects (all D-I at some level) for Michigan's class of 2016 - Austin Simpson-6-2, 295-DT-Livonia Churchill (4.9 40), Brayton Rzepka-6-5, 270-DT-Coldwater (also top baseball prospect as P-1B), Matthew Lloyd-6-3, 285-DT-NG-Grand Ledge (also one of Michigan's best wrestlers, finished fourth in state as heavyweight last season), Malcolm Strickland-6-4, 250-DE-DT-Belleville, Ronathan Elmore-6-4, 230-DE-Belleville (teams with Malcolm Strickland to form dynamic duo for Tigers), Colin Emmendorfer-6-4, 240-DE-Flushing, Zach VanValkenburg-6-4, 235-DE-Zeeland West (three-year starter, started as soph. on D-3 state title team), Jonathan Brys-6-6, 245-DE-Jackson Lumen Christi (EMU offer, also talented TE), Eyioma Uwozunke-6-5, 255-DE-Southfield Lathrup (from same school as EMU, Detroit Lions starting DE Jason Jones), Dylan Pasquali-6-4, 285-DT-Trenton, Kamar Graves-6-4, 240-DE-Detroit Douglass (also talented TE, Illinois offer), Christian Boyd-6-2, 270-DT-Muskegon Mona Shores (returning starter for D-2 state runner-up), Tyler Shreve-6-4, 255-DE-Walled Lake Western, Carl Myers-6-3, 245-DE-Grand Rapids West Catholic (returning two-way starter for D-5 state champions), Tim Stevens-6-2, 265-DT-Temperance Bedford, Ian McInnis-6-2, 280-DT-Munising (U.P. Dream Team, monster in trenches, returning starter for D-8 state runner-up), Brian Mack-6-3, 225-DE-Grosse Pointe South (All-Detroit Metro East), Brendon Bott-6-4, 255-DT-Grand Rapids Kenowa Hills (All-Grand Rapids North), Kyle Soderberg-6-2, 235-DE-Crystal Falls Forest Park (U.P. Dream Team selection), Blake Roe-6-2, 290-DT-Haslett, Alvin Clemons-6-1, 265-DT-Detroit Cass Tech, Jaylen Browder-6-5, 265-DT-Saginaw Arthur Hill, Britt Swaenepoel-6-2, 280-DT-Napoleon (Jackson Citizen-Patriot Dream Team), Nathan Fox-6-3, 240-DT-Johannesburg-Lewiston (dominant D-lineman "Up North," plus a talented kicker), Jean Paul Nkolo-6-3, 220-DE-East Kentwood, Michael Tabor-6-4, 285-DT-Holland, Jake Tumele-6-3, 230-DE-Muskegon Orchard View (runs 4.8 40), Dylan Swanson-6-4, 270-DT-Detroit King, Andy Maschke-6-2, 275-DT-Hartland, Leon Page-6-3, 220-DE-Detroit King (Verbal to CMU), Eldrick Matthews-6-4, 280-DE-Detroit Cass Tech, Blake Brady-6-2, 220-DE-Macomb Dakota, Wallace Hall-6-4, 250-DT-Ypsilanti, Matt Jelinek-6-4, 230-DE-Suttons Bay (4.7 40, returned fumble 33 yards for TD last year, another "Up North" lineman who will cause havoc all season long), Kevin Koenig-6-4, 235-DE-Laingsburg (one of my top sleepers in Michigan, Division 4 state runner-up wrestler at 215, also plays QB for Laingsburg, great all-around athlete from small school near Lansing).
Top 10 offensive line prospects for Michigan's class of 2016
Only four times in the history of the NFL draft has an offensive lineman been selected as the No. 1 overall pick. Two of those four players are native Michiganders. In 2008, Lapeer East's Jake Long (Michigan) was chosen as the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL draft by the Miami Dolphins, while Rochester Stoney Creek's Eric Fisher (Central Michigan) was selected No. 1 overall by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2013. The other two O-linemen picked No. 1 overall in the draft were USC's Ron Yary (California) in 1968 by the Minnesota Vikings and Ohio State's Orlando Pace (Ohio) in 1997 by the St. Louis Rams.
My point is, if history is any indication, the state of Michigan is one of the top states in the country when it comes to churning out top quality offensive linemen. The class of 2016 is no different -- it's chock full of high level Division I college football talent. Is there another future NFL No. 1 overall draft pick in the following group? I guess only time will tell -- though out of any state in the Union (if history is used as a measurement), Michigan appears to be the place to look/recruit for the next future NFL No. 1-er at the offensive line position.
Here are the top 10 offensive line prospects for Michigan's class of 2016 --
1. Michael Jordan-6-6, 280-OT-Plymouth-Notre Dame, MSU, U-M all offered. Verbal to Ohio State.
2. Thiyo Lukusa-6-5, 300-OT-Traverse City West (decided to transfer to high school in New Jersey for senior season)-Wisconsin, Georgia, Tennessee, Nebraska, OSU, U-M all offered. Verbal to MSU.
3. Juanye Johnson-6-4, 285-OT-Muskegon-MSU, U-M recruiting. Powerful drive blocker for state powerhouse program.
4. Tom Kowalkoski-6-4, 280-OG-C-Detroit Catholic Central-Purdue, Iowa, Northwestern all heavily recruited. Verbal to Boston College.
5. Jake Cerny-6-5, 285-OT-Traverse City West-Excellent feet, technique for a big man. Verbal to Illinois.
6. Alaric Jackson-6-7, 285-OT-Detroit Renaissance-Nebraska, Kentucky, Illinois, Kansas, MSU offers. Has played only one year of organized football. Hoops standout.
7. Ostell Martin-6-6, 300-OT-OG-Detroit Cass Tech-Syracuse, U-M, Alabama have shown interest.
8. Muad Motan-6-4, 315-OT-OG-Ann Arbor Pioneer-Top O-lineman in Ann Arbor area. All-Area performer a year ago. Somewhat of a sleeper. Rugged run blocker.
9. Trenton Fincher-6-7, 315-OT-East Kentwood-Big Ten size, pedigree. Father played at Michigan State.
10. Mike VanHoeven-6-5, 305-OT-Paw Paw-Next great from small southwest Michigan school. Current MSU All-Big Ten OT Jack Conklin played a few miles over in Plainwell. From same school as NFL All-Pro DE Jason Babin (WMU, New York Jets currently). Verbal to EMU.
-- Other top offensive linemen for Michigan's class of 2016- (all are D-I prospects - high, mid, low)- Alex Angeles-6-2, 315-OG-Northville (three-year starter, benches school record 350 pounds), Tommy Roush-6-4, 270-OT-Traverse City West, Colin Shock-6-2, 275-C-Macomb Dakota (will be three-year starter for state power), Jordan Asbury-6-4, 265-OT-Warren DeLaSalle (starter for D-2 state champions, verbal to WMU), Carmen Kolwich-6-4, 280-OT-Orchard Lake St. Mary's (starter for D-3 state champions, verbal to Northwestern), Brendan Thompson-6-5, 260-OT-Lake Orion, Kyle Augustine-6-3, 315-OG-Gaylord, Mike Birkenhauer-6-4, 260-OG-Birmingham Brother Rice, Jaylin Jones-6-4, 265-OT-Ypsilanti Lincoln, Nick Edney-6-2, 280-C-OG-Garden City (school's best D-I prospect since U-M two-time captain OG Kirk Lewis in 1970s), Sam Hartwig-6-5, 280-OT-Menominee (will be three-year starter at U.P. power), Zak Hill-6-4, 315-OT-Roseville, Mike Bordeaux-6-3, 265-OG-Muskegon Mona Shores (two-way starter for D-2 state runner-up Sailors), Karson Murley-6-2, 265-OG-Lowell, Jaleel Jones-6-3, 290-OG-Lansing Everett, Marshaun Blake-6-2, 240-OT-Lansing Sexton (returning starter for D-4 state runner-up), Cobe Bryant-6-5, 315-OT-Rochester, Jack Hensley-6-4, 325-OT-Sterling Heights Parkway Christian, Jacob Lechner-6-3, 255-OG-C-Harbor Springs, Jacob Donnellon-6-5, 265-OT-Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard (Verbal to EMU), Mason Penix-6-6, 305-OT-Charlotte, Liam Lamke-6-5, 245-OT-Lansing Catholic Central (starter for D-5 state runner-up Cougars), James Haverkamp-6-7, 265-OT-Grand Rapids Christian, Jake Boonstra-6-3, 285-OG-Grand Rapids Kenowa Hills, Darren Johnson-6-4, 290-OT-Dearborn Heights Robichaud, Cody Witzgall-6-3, 270-OG-Bay City Western, Keegan Golder-6-5, 270-OT-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Eastern, Isaac Weir-6-4, 270-OT-Stevensville-Lakeshore, J.R. Sheriff-6-2, 290-C-Bridgman, Andrew McLeod-6-3, 265-C-OT-Farmington, Matt Blair-6-1, 240-C-North Farmington (three-year starter for Raiders), Dan Collins-6-3, 280-OG-Howell, Colton Overway-6-3, 265-C-Zeeland West, Jacob Jenkins-6-3, 305-OG-Redford Thurston, Jack Steinhauer-6-3, 270-OG-Grosse Pointe South, Mike Kibzey-6-4, 265-OT-Madison Heights Madison, Adam Audette-6-2, 250-C-Climax-Scotts.
My point is, if history is any indication, the state of Michigan is one of the top states in the country when it comes to churning out top quality offensive linemen. The class of 2016 is no different -- it's chock full of high level Division I college football talent. Is there another future NFL No. 1 overall draft pick in the following group? I guess only time will tell -- though out of any state in the Union (if history is used as a measurement), Michigan appears to be the place to look/recruit for the next future NFL No. 1-er at the offensive line position.
Here are the top 10 offensive line prospects for Michigan's class of 2016 --
1. Michael Jordan-6-6, 280-OT-Plymouth-Notre Dame, MSU, U-M all offered. Verbal to Ohio State.
2. Thiyo Lukusa-6-5, 300-OT-Traverse City West (decided to transfer to high school in New Jersey for senior season)-Wisconsin, Georgia, Tennessee, Nebraska, OSU, U-M all offered. Verbal to MSU.
3. Juanye Johnson-6-4, 285-OT-Muskegon-MSU, U-M recruiting. Powerful drive blocker for state powerhouse program.
4. Tom Kowalkoski-6-4, 280-OG-C-Detroit Catholic Central-Purdue, Iowa, Northwestern all heavily recruited. Verbal to Boston College.
5. Jake Cerny-6-5, 285-OT-Traverse City West-Excellent feet, technique for a big man. Verbal to Illinois.
6. Alaric Jackson-6-7, 285-OT-Detroit Renaissance-Nebraska, Kentucky, Illinois, Kansas, MSU offers. Has played only one year of organized football. Hoops standout.
7. Ostell Martin-6-6, 300-OT-OG-Detroit Cass Tech-Syracuse, U-M, Alabama have shown interest.
8. Muad Motan-6-4, 315-OT-OG-Ann Arbor Pioneer-Top O-lineman in Ann Arbor area. All-Area performer a year ago. Somewhat of a sleeper. Rugged run blocker.
9. Trenton Fincher-6-7, 315-OT-East Kentwood-Big Ten size, pedigree. Father played at Michigan State.
10. Mike VanHoeven-6-5, 305-OT-Paw Paw-Next great from small southwest Michigan school. Current MSU All-Big Ten OT Jack Conklin played a few miles over in Plainwell. From same school as NFL All-Pro DE Jason Babin (WMU, New York Jets currently). Verbal to EMU.
-- Other top offensive linemen for Michigan's class of 2016- (all are D-I prospects - high, mid, low)- Alex Angeles-6-2, 315-OG-Northville (three-year starter, benches school record 350 pounds), Tommy Roush-6-4, 270-OT-Traverse City West, Colin Shock-6-2, 275-C-Macomb Dakota (will be three-year starter for state power), Jordan Asbury-6-4, 265-OT-Warren DeLaSalle (starter for D-2 state champions, verbal to WMU), Carmen Kolwich-6-4, 280-OT-Orchard Lake St. Mary's (starter for D-3 state champions, verbal to Northwestern), Brendan Thompson-6-5, 260-OT-Lake Orion, Kyle Augustine-6-3, 315-OG-Gaylord, Mike Birkenhauer-6-4, 260-OG-Birmingham Brother Rice, Jaylin Jones-6-4, 265-OT-Ypsilanti Lincoln, Nick Edney-6-2, 280-C-OG-Garden City (school's best D-I prospect since U-M two-time captain OG Kirk Lewis in 1970s), Sam Hartwig-6-5, 280-OT-Menominee (will be three-year starter at U.P. power), Zak Hill-6-4, 315-OT-Roseville, Mike Bordeaux-6-3, 265-OG-Muskegon Mona Shores (two-way starter for D-2 state runner-up Sailors), Karson Murley-6-2, 265-OG-Lowell, Jaleel Jones-6-3, 290-OG-Lansing Everett, Marshaun Blake-6-2, 240-OT-Lansing Sexton (returning starter for D-4 state runner-up), Cobe Bryant-6-5, 315-OT-Rochester, Jack Hensley-6-4, 325-OT-Sterling Heights Parkway Christian, Jacob Lechner-6-3, 255-OG-C-Harbor Springs, Jacob Donnellon-6-5, 265-OT-Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard (Verbal to EMU), Mason Penix-6-6, 305-OT-Charlotte, Liam Lamke-6-5, 245-OT-Lansing Catholic Central (starter for D-5 state runner-up Cougars), James Haverkamp-6-7, 265-OT-Grand Rapids Christian, Jake Boonstra-6-3, 285-OG-Grand Rapids Kenowa Hills, Darren Johnson-6-4, 290-OT-Dearborn Heights Robichaud, Cody Witzgall-6-3, 270-OG-Bay City Western, Keegan Golder-6-5, 270-OT-Grand Rapids Forest Hills Eastern, Isaac Weir-6-4, 270-OT-Stevensville-Lakeshore, J.R. Sheriff-6-2, 290-C-Bridgman, Andrew McLeod-6-3, 265-C-OT-Farmington, Matt Blair-6-1, 240-C-North Farmington (three-year starter for Raiders), Dan Collins-6-3, 280-OG-Howell, Colton Overway-6-3, 265-C-Zeeland West, Jacob Jenkins-6-3, 305-OG-Redford Thurston, Jack Steinhauer-6-3, 270-OG-Grosse Pointe South, Mike Kibzey-6-4, 265-OT-Madison Heights Madison, Adam Audette-6-2, 250-C-Climax-Scotts.
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