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The Wolverines looking to make a name for themselves ahead of the NFL Draft in April have a big week to do just that, given the Reese’s Senior Bowl practices have been underway with plenty of scouts in attendance.
But, it’s not all about the seniors who are departing Ann Arbor, but some of the juniors who don’t get to participate in such a showcase.
The prominent voice in all-things NFL Draft is ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr., who just released his first mock draft and big board for 2020. While no Michigan players made either the first round of 32 or Kiper’s top 25 players, he did separate the top ten players available by position, and four former Wolverines made those lists, including one at the very top.
The name that was highest for Kiper was former team captain Ben Bredeson, who headlined his top ten offensive guards available, coming in at the No. 1 spot. But he isn’t the only offensive lineman to get strong consideration as center Cesar Ruiz — who is forgoing his senior year to enter the pro ranks — came in as Kiper’s third-best center.
The other two players that Kiper is high on are both senior defensive players, as Josh Metellus came in as the No. 8 safety. Josh Uche had another year of eligibility, despite being in Ann Arbor for four years, and Kiper sees him as the 7th-best outside linebacker.
However, Uche can really make a name for himself at the Reese’s Senior Bowl, where he’s already made a strong impression during practices.
Notably absent in the lists are both senior QB Shea Patterson — who’s had an up-and-down go of things in the week-long preparation for the Reese’s Senior Bowl — but perhaps more notably wideout Donovan Peoples-Jones, who declared for the NFL Draft early, despite having another year of eligibility. Given that he had a year where he could improve his draft stock, that he isn’t on Kiper’s list of top ten wide receivers as of current means that Peoples-Jones will have to rely heavily on both the NFL Scouting Combine and his Pro Day workout to fly up draft boards.