Former Michigan defender raised NFL Draft stock in Reese’s Senior Bowl

The former Michigan linebacker made a solid impression on scouts according to multiple outlets.

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Michigan had the largest contingent of former players of any team at the Reese’s Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama on Saturday, a crucial week-long event culminating in a played showcase for NFL scouts.

While QB Shea Patterson completed 60% of his 10 passes for 131 yards, including a 75-yard touchdown — but also with one interception — was perhaps the most visible, as he led all passers in yardage and yards-per-attempt, it was on the defensive side of the ball that a former Wolverine has garnered the most attention.

All week long, SAM linebacker Josh Uche highlighted his versatility, considering his ability as a pass rusher as well as to drop into coverage. Game included, Uche made quite the impression on scouts, starting with those who spoke to ESPN after the game.

Players like Uche are tough to gauge because they don’t have a specific projected position at the next level. Uche showcased his versatility in Mobile, standing out when he got opportunities to rush the passer. His heavy, strong hands seemed to shock blockers at the contact point. Uche was also able to run with some of the running backs in coverage, which is good for his future in the NFL.

What they’re saying: “He won me over during Wednesday’s practice. He doesn’t have the typical edge-rusher build but likely projects as an outside ‘backer who can sustain pass-rushing downs in certain defenses. Loved how explosive his lower-body movement showed up in individuals. Great bend. They’ll call him a tweener in every draft profile you read, but he’s so versatile that every NFL team could find a role for a guy like this.”

But they weren’t alone.

The Athletic’s Dane Brugler put together a list of participants who ‘made money’ by playing in the Reese’s Senior Bowl, and Uche vindicated his earlier optimism heading into the week.

Joshua Uche, Edge, Michigan (6-1, 241)

After I post a mock draft or prospect rankings, I often hear from friends around the league with feedback about what they agree with or where they might disagree. After I posted my latest top-100 board earlier this month, I heard from two scouts who thought I had Uche too high at No. 60 overall, seeing him more as a late third-rounder. However, I received a text from one of those scouts late this week: “You might be right about that #6 at Michigan.” It was predictable that Uche would be a standout in one-on-one’s because of his explosive speed to undress blockers in space. But it was the way he progressed throughout the week dropping into coverage and playing the run that really left a lasting impression. Uche had a money-making week.

Uche had another year of eligibility on the table, but ultimately chose to forgo his redshirt senior year in favor of entering the NFL Draft. At this juncture, it looks as if he’s made the right choice.