It’s no secret that Michigan’s offense flows through the tight end.
Luke Schoonmaker was a difference-maker last season, and this year Colston Loveland and AJ Barner are two of the top four receivers on the team. Harbaugh simply loves to use the position in any way he can.
In the run game, Michigan’s scheme relies on tight ends to seal off the edge or occasionally get outside and block a linebacker or defensive back. Meanwhile, the passing attack features a lot of routes that attack the middle of the field or leak the tight end out late as a checkdown. Needless to say, securing the future of that position is crucial to the success of the offense moving forward.
Fortunately, Michigan signed two top-tier tight ends this cycle. Both players are capable of blooming into impressive talents and should help solidify the position once Colston Loveland leaves for the NFL.
Let’s take a look at them.