BY JOHN BORTON
R
edshirt freshmen just don't top The Wolverine's annual
preseason rankings of the top 25 performers on the
upcoming squad. It never happens.
Until this year.
Safety Jabrill Peppers claimed the top spot this season, despite
performing in only three career games to this point. He has all of
three tackles and one six-yard punt return to his credit.
Obviously, that doesn't begin to tell the story. The former Ri-
vals.com five-star performer has turned the heads of the entire
Michigan coaching staff, just like he did their predecessors.
In fact, head coach Jim Harbaugh noted Peppers will have a
chance to be a three-way player this season. He'll man a safety
spot on defense, return kicks on special teams and get a look as
a playmaker on offense.
"It's rare that they'll play offense, defense and special teams,"
Harbaugh said. "They're the rare three-way player. It's exciting
when somebody can do that."
Make no mistake, Harbaugh insisted — Peppers can do it.
He'll get a chance to lead the way on the field, just like he does
on this preseason list.
Here then is the top 25, with highlighted performers and a
complete rundown of the list itself.
MICHIGAN'S
TOP 25
Young Leader Tops Our Annual List
Of The Wolverines' Best Players
