The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/315684
MICHIGAN RECRUITING QB FOCUS SHIFTS TO 2016 With a 2015 quarterback now in the fold, the U-M coaching staff can end its pursuit in that class, but the year- round nature of recruiting means that they won't stop looking at quarter- backs. In fact, offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Doug Nuss- meier (along with the rest of Michi- gan's assistants) can fast-forward a year and begin to take an in-depth look at the 2016 crop. Westlake Village (Calif.) Westlake dual-threat passer Malik Henry is one to watch in the class. Although Michigan projects to run primarily a pro-style offense, the coaching staff has evaluated several dual-threat op- tions in the 2015 and now 2016 classes, and it's clear that some variety in skill sets at the position is desired. The 6-1, 177-pound Henry is no slouch as a passer, either, throwing for 2,362 yards and 21 touchdowns as a sophomore. The opposite coast could also be an area Michigan mines for a quarterback in the 2016 class. Oradell (N.J.) Bergen Catholic's Jarrett Guarantano is listed as a pro-style passer, but he also has the ability to move the ball with his feet. The 6-2, 190-pounder comes from a power program in New Jersey, and the Wolverines' presence in that state is more visible than ever after landing five-star Jabrill Peppers out of the Gar- den State in 2014. Another dual-threat passer has also visited, and although Shreveport (La.) Calvary Academy's Shea Patterson has already committed to Arizona, he took in the Ohio State game in Michigan Stadium last fall. The 6-2, 190-pounder is keeping his options open, and family connections to Ohio could see a return to the Midwest hap- pen in the end. While there is still plenty of time for the 2016 class to consider the recruit- ing process, that Michigan is already focusing on that class could help the Wolverines make decisions on offers early enough to wrap up a signal- caller quickly in the process. TOP TARGETS PLAN RETURN VISITS AND EARLY DECISIONS U-M's 2015 class could see a sum- mer boost. While mid-May brought quarterback Alex Malzone and line- backer Darrin Kirkland Jr. into the fold, late June to early July will see two top prospects make their commit- ments, and both have Michigan high on the list. Avon (Conn.) Old Farms tight end For regular reports on football recruiting, plus videos of all the top prospects in the nation and Michigan's commitments, visit www.TheWolverine.com. Get The Wolverine Mobile App and stay up-to-date with recruiting news on the go!