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Michigan football has long had a solid pass rush, but it went to another level this past year. So much so that some of the recent greats are now being somewhat overshadowed by Aidan Hutchinson — the new single-season sack leader in Wolverines’ history — and David Ojabo; both expected to be first-round NFL draft picks next month.
But, with their departure, there are a lot of questions as to who will fill their shoes this coming year. If you ask Aidan Hutchinson, though, he’s not terribly concerned.
Speaking to reporters as the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis, Hutchinson doesn’t think it will be an easy road for the defensive side of the ball — though he thinks the offense will take a step forward — but he has no concerns as to where the defense will end up when all is said and done.
“Offense, they’re getting almost everybody back, but defensively, I know we’re losing six dudes out of 11 starters,” Hutchinson said. “It’s definitely going to be hard for them, but it’s Michigan and we get a lot of talent. We’ll be able to reload. Those boys will be fine.”
That said, who will be the players who will take that big step forward? Also speaking to reporters, David Ojabo elucidated on who he thinks will step up.
“They’re in good hands, man. Michigan’s always done a good job with their pass rushers,” Ojabo said. “Taylor Upshaw, Jaylen Harrell, Mike Morris, all of them. They’re in good hands.”
While the Michigan contingent takes part in the NFL combine, the Wolverines still in Ann Arbor are currently with the week off from spring ball due to spring break. They are set to return next week with eyes on the April 2 spring game.
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