The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/315684
MICHIGAN RECRUITING assuring that Michigan is where he wants to be. He talked to Coach [Greg] Mattison [about the Notre Dame visit], and they want us to talk to Coach Hoke later on. They haven't said any- thing about pulling his commit." Crawford is Michigan's second- highest-rated commit behind fellow cornerback Garrett Taylor (the No. 6 corner and No. 41 overall prospect nationally). While it does seem likely that Michigan will hold onto him, the process is far from over. NUMBERS GAME With seven commitments in the class of 2015, Michigan's group is al- ready more than half full for the cur- rent allotment of scholarships. The Wolverines have 13 scholarships avail- able at this time, and seven commit- ments. However, that number is certain to grow between now and National Sign- ing Day in February. Over the past 15 years, an average of 4.9 players per recruiting class have left U-M before exhausting their eligibility (though only Kaleb Ringer, a linebacker in the 2012 class, has departed from U-M's 2012-14 classes to date). A normal amount of yearly attrition would see about two to three additional open- ings by the time the 2015 class signs, and possibly more depending on fac- tors like early entry to the NFL Draft or unforeseen injuries. Michigan currently has three defen- sive backs, a quarterback, one line- backer, an offensive lineman and a kicker in the fold, and has needs at defensive end, offensive line, tight end and wide receiver. Running back is also a need after the Wolverines didn't take one in the 2014 class, though two true freshmen from the 2013 class played this fall. They likely won't take any pledges from defensive tackles, after landing large groups at the posi- tion in the 2012 and 2013 classes. The priorities may also still be changing. Depending on which posi- tions see attrition, the needs on the current roster are subject to change. Class Of 2015 Football Commitments Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Hometown (High School) Shaun Crawford DB 5-9 165 Lakewood, Ohio (St. Edward) Andrew David K 5-8 170 Massillon, Ohio (Washington) Tyree Kinnel DB 6-0 190 Huber Heights, Ohio (Wayne) Darrin Kirkland Jr. LB 6-1 233 Indianapolis (Lawrence Central) Alex Malzone QB 6-2 205 Bloomfield Hills, Mi. (Brother Rice) Jon Runyan Jr. OL 6-4 250 Philadelphia (St. Joseph's) Garrett Taylor DB 6-1 188 Richmond, Va. (St. Christopher's) Class Of 2016 Football Commitment Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Hometown (High School) Erik Swenson OL 6-5 289 Downers Grove, Ill. (Downers Grove South)