The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
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michigan recruiting Denzel Ward Softens Commitment Michigan's second commitment in the 2014 class was a big one — all of 6-9, 295 pounds. Chicago Hales Franciscan offensive lineman Denzel Ward pledged to the Wolverines Oct. 20 on a visit to campus during which he took in the 12-10 victory over Michigan State. Citing his closeness with 2013 U‑M line commit Logan Tuley-Tillman, Ward announced for Michigan over offers from Purdue and Illinois, among others. Now other schools have wised up to what the athletic Ward has to offer as an offensive line prospect, and have followed through with offers. Other top-tier programs have begun to show serious interest in Ward. Unfortunately for Michigan fans, that could mean a wandering eye for the big man. "Michigan is always going to be my top school for now," Ward said. "The way things are looking — the way my mom wants things to go — we're just looking to tour a lot of the options. "We talked to the Michigan staff, and right now they're giving me a little time through spring ball to be sure I'm solid with my commitment. Until then, I'm just trying to make sure of my decision." Although the U-M coaching staff has established a policy of not allowing commitments to take visits to other schools' campuses, they've allowed Ward to leave the door open, since it's so early in the process. While he may not have a spot reserved for Ward, a 6-9, 295-pound offensive lineman from Chicago, still considers himself a U-M pledge, but he has expressed a desire to explore all his options. photo courtesy Rivals.com him if he takes visits, he'll be welcome until space in the class starts to dwindle. He took one visit to the University of Florida on his way home from the Under Armour Combine in St. Petersburg, Fla., in early January, at which time the Gators offered. Arizona State and Ohio State have also come through with offers. As of now, Ward considers himself a Michigan commit — as do the Wolverines' coaches — but he'll need to solidify things in order to remain that way until National Signing Day