The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/213966
football recruiting Cornerback Jai Eugene Destrehan (La.) • 2006 • LSU Eugene's commitment to Louisiana State was a particularly harsh blow for Michigan, because he had previously been committed to the Wolverines. He picked U-M at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl in 2006, but a few days before National Signing Day the four-star member of the Rivals250 switched to the home-state school. Unlike previous recruiting losses for Michigan, Eugene had an up-and-down career at LSU. He redshirted as a true freshman and never started more than half the Tigers' games during his tenure. He never signed with an NFL team. Athlete Ronald Johnson Muskegon (Mich.) • 2007 • USC Johnson was the top in-state player for U-M in the 2007 cycle and the No. 8 overall player in the country. Although he was long thought to be a Michigan lean, shortly before National Signing Day he shockingly opted for USC, which was offering him the chance to play primarily offense, whereas Michigan liked him at cornerback. In four years at USC, Johnson caught 138 passes for 1,750 yards (12.7 yards per reception) and 20 touchdowns. He also contributed on special teams, notching a punt return touchdown as a senior. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 2011, but has not seen NFL action. Quarterback Terrelle Pryor Jeannette (Pa.) • 2007 • Ohio State Pryor was the country's top prospect, and his dual-threat nature made him a perfect fit for Rich Rodriguez's incoming spread offense. However, his longstanding relationship with Ohio State's coaching staff made OSU the choice following an official visit to Ann Arbor and extending his decision after National Signing Day. Pryor played for three years at Ohio State, emerging as the Buckeyes' starter midway through his freshman year. He threw 57 touchdown passes and ran for 17 scores during his time in Columbus. He was ruled ineligible for his senior year after committing NCAA violations and declared for the NFL Draft. He has emerged as the starting quarterback for the Oakland Raiders. Defensive end Nick Perry Detroit King • 2007 • USC Perry was a four-star prospect and the No. 56 player nationally in 2007. He was considered a Michigan lean, but when Rich Rodriguez's staff arrived in Ann Arbor, his comfort with the Wolverines diminished and he picked USC instead.