The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/262939
BY TIM SULLIVAN M ichigan's smaller than av- erage recruiting class ranks just No. 31 nationally ac- cording to Rivals.com, but on a per-signee basis, the average star rankings are good for a No. 15 mark. Some of the new Wolverines will be expected to contribute from day one, while others will require more seasoning before they're ready to see the field in Big Ten play. The following is The Wolverine's ranking of the class in order of their probability of contributing this fall. The rankings are from Rivals.com. 1. Cornerback Jabrill Peppers Paramus (N.J.) Catholic Five-star recruit, No. 3 overall prospect nationally, No. 1 cornerback in the land and No. 1 player in New Jersey Peppers, at No. 3 nationally, matches 1998 quarterback signee Drew Hen- son as the highest-ranked player to sign with the Wolverines. The 6-1, 210-pounder has the physical build to step onto the field immediately and make an impact in the secondary. His speed — 10.51 in the 100-meter dash as a junior — and stature will allow him to step right into the Michigan lineup. Thanks to his explosiveness with the ball in his hands, he should also work in on special teams and possibly even offense early in his career. 2. Wide receiver Drake Harris — early enrollee Grand Rapids (Mich.) Christian Four-star recruit, No. 115 overall pros- pect nationally, No. 14 wide receiver in the country and No. 3 player in Michigan Harris missed his entire senior sea- son of high school football, but showed during a 2,019-yard junior year that he has the skills to make an impact right away, if healthy. At 6-4 and 170 pounds, he has the size that allows him to be a deep threat even before considering his above-average speed. With a spring practice under his belt, he should be good to go immediately in the fall. After the graduations of Jeremy Gallon, Jer- emy Jackson and Drew Dileo, he should be needed. 3. Linebacker Michael Ferns – early enrollee St. Clairsville (Ohio) IMPACT FRESHMEN Several Future Wolverines Have A Chance To See Early Playing Time