Tag: Ben Bredeson

New Ravens G Ben Bredeson comes from an ultra-competitive family

Bredeson may have picked up his competitive nature and spirit from none other than his own mother.

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With the Baltimore Ravens selecting Michigan guard Ben Bredeson with the 143rd pick in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, they added a highly competitive player. So competitive in fact that Bredeson’s mother competes in dog shows and doesn’t take losing very kindly.

According to ESPN’s television coverage, Bredeson may have picked up his competitive nature and spirit from none other than his own mother. And when she got a ribbon for a non-first finish, it didn’t stick around long.

It’s a safe bet there weren’t any “participation trophies” on the mantle in the Bredeson household.

Apparently, Bredeson’s mom, Deb, was highly competitive in the national dog show circuit, treating second place ribbons with the same regard as used fast-food wrappers. If Ben Bredeson brings the same competitive edge to the Baltimore Ravens, settling for anything less than a Super Bowl victory would be a disgrace, nay, tragedy.

I fully support your mentality here, Ben (if that truly is your outlook), and hope your most competitive dreams come true. And if that indeed comes to pass, please give my thanks to your dear mother.

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Ravens earn ‘B’ grade for OL Ben Bredeson pick in 4th round

Bredeson, a top offensive line choice for the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, fills an immediate depth need at guard for the Ravens.

With their first selection of the fourth round, the Baltimore Ravens saw an opportunity to address an offseason need, taking Michigan guard Ben Bredeson with the 143rd overall pick of the 2020 NFL Draft. It’s a solid addition to Baltimore’s offensive line, earning a solid grade from us here at Ravens Wire.

Draft Grade: B

Bredeson, considered to be the best offensive lineman choice for the fourth round, fills an immediate depth need at guard for the Ravens, especially with the retirement of All-Pro stalwart Marshall Yanda. Bredeson also potentially brings some versatility to the offensive line. While he started all of his games at left guard for Michigan, he got snaps at center at the Senior Bowl as well.

As a stout and effective run-blocker, this choice makes a lot of sense for Baltimore’s power-heavy approach on offense. The Ravens’ offense features a stable of capable running backs that now includes second-round pick J.K. Dobbins, not to mention scrambling QB Lamar Jackson, so adding some blockers up front was a necessity.

Bredeson is a smart and strong blocker with experience in an RPO system. While very few fourth-round picks will start immediately upon coming into the NFL, Bredeson might actually have a shot to at least compete for the job with fellow draft pick Tyre Phillips and 2019 fourth-round selection Ben Powers, who is likely penciled in as the starter.

It’s also worth noting that Bredeson is going from one Harbaugh to another — Ravens coach John Harbaugh’s brother Jim coaches the Wolverines — something that may have helped facilitate this selection, dissuading the Baltimore from looking elsewhere.

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Instant analysis of Ravens’ 4th-round pick Michigan G Ben Bredeson

The Ravens now have taken two consecutive guards in the NFL Draft with the selection of Ben Bredeson out of Michigan.

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The Ravens now have taken two consecutive guards in the 2020 NFL Draft with the selection of Ben Bredeson out of Michigan in the fourth round.

Bredeson, at 6-foot-5 and 325 pounds, is an absolute bulldozer off the ball in the run game and we considered him to be the top guard in the fourth round for the Ravens. The four-year starter at Michigan was a team captain and started all 13 games at left guard as well as winning 3rd-team AP All-American and first-team All-Conference.

Bredeson’s technique is highly lauded by analysts, showing polish in both power and RPO systems. He’s able to stun defenders across from him with strong punches while blocking and has fluid enough hips to change direction in the case of twists. He maintains exceptional balance in both areas of his game and creates a ton of leverage while blocking. He’s a leader on the field and is someone who lets his play do the talking.

He isn’t that fast, though, and pulling is not his fortė. He still moves at a relative college speed, so the transition to the NFL could be tough and a little slower for him.

It’s also worth a note that Jim Harbaugh, John’s brother, is the head coach at Michigan.

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Ravens select Michigan G Ben Bredeson with No. 143 pick in 4th round

The Baltimore Ravens continue to add some talent in the trenches, bringing on board strong guard Ben Bredeson in the fourth round.

The Baltimore Ravens are back for Day 3 of the 2020 NFL Draft. With their first pick of the day, No. 143 in the fourth round, the Ravens select Michigan G Ben Bredeson.

We came into this draft expecting the Ravens to add some mass upfront to their offensive line following the retirement of Marshal Yanda and with center Matt Skura still rehabbing after his season-ending knee injury. But the Ravens double-dip at guard after taking Mississippi State’s Tyre Phillips with the last pick in the third round.

We had actually pegged Bredeson as the best guard prospect expected to be available in the fourth round and apparently Baltimore agreed. He’s a determined and intelligent blocker with a ton of strength, all important features in the Ravens’ power-rushing attack.

Baltimore could have gotten a little inside information on Bredeson from coach John Harbaugh’s older brother, Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh. Bredeson started every game at left guard at Michigan over the last three seasons, getting playing time in all 13 games as a freshman too.

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Ben Bredeson picked by Ravens in fourth-round of NFL Draft

The former Wolverines team captain has earned his way into the NFL via the draft.

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It’s not often that you find a four-year starter at the college football level on the offensive line.

Offensive line is typically a position where those in the starting lineup, the most effective players, are upperclassmen, who get their first opportunities after a few years in the program.

But Michigan left guard Ben Bredeson was a difference maker from the beginning.

Though he wasn’t a starter on day one, midway through the 2016 season, Bredeson got his chance. He was embroiled all offseason as a true freshman in a battle for the left tackle position with eventual starter Grant Newsome. But, in Week Five when Newsome suffered a career-ending knee injury, Bredeson was called up, as then-left guard Ben Braden was shifted outside, while Bredeson worked his way in as a first-time starter in year one. He never relinquished his position, not only becoming entrenched as the left guard for the rest of his career, but he was a two-time team captain, to boot.

With his skill of play as well as leadership capabilities, it was enough for the Baltimore Ravens to select Bredeson with the No, 143overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft in the fourth-round on Saturday.

NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein graded Bredeson as a prototypical backup prospect at the pro-level, and broke down his game as follows, noting he could become an ‘average starter’ in the NFL:

Overview

Four-year starter who will get dinged for some athletic limitations, but possesses the body type, leadership and toughness necessary to play in the league. Bredeson is best-suited firing out in a power-based rushing attacking where his disadvantages in space can be mitigated. There are correctable elements in his game that should forge continued improvement, but there will be some bumpy roads against interior quickness. He should become an average starter.

Strengths

  • Burly with broad shoulders and an NFL guard’s frame
  • Peppery pass punch to stun defender
  • Sharp to snap and catch in response to twists
  • Looks for work when he’s uncovered
  • Maintains base width and generally on-balance in pass sets
  • Rugged mentality will appeal to O-line coaches
  • Plays with adequate bend in hips, knees and ankles
  • Able to unlock hips and create leverage in run game
  • Can match power across from him as drive blocker
  • Two-time team captain and highly regarded by teammates

Weaknesses

  • Athletic limitations limit his scheme flexibility
  • Below-average initial quickness
  • Effectiveness diminishes away from his phone booth
  • Heavy feet hinder lateral movements and second level climbs
  • Will struggle redirecting and adjusting to moving targets in space
  • Needs more accurate hand placement to improve block sustain
  • Room for improvement with anchor technique in pass sets
  • Could struggle to handle NFL rush counters

All-in-all, Baltimore got a solid prospect in Bredeson. Having taken him at No. 143 overall signifies, however, that it intends to groom him as a potential starter down the line — but he shouldn’t be expected to be an immediate contributor.

Regardless, it got a solid leader, a stalwart lineman, and a player who can make an impact sooner-that-later.

10 players for the Lions to consider on Day 3 of the NFL Draft

Identifying 10 players that the Detroit Lions should consider on Day 3 of the 2020 NFL Draft.

In what already looks like the best draft of general manager Bob Quinn’s career with the Detroit Lions, it appears that every glaring hole on the roster has been filled.

Now, on Day 3 of the draft, the Lions can focus on finding some key depth pieces and rotational contributors for the 2020 season.

The team currently possesses one pick in each of the remaining rounds, so they will have plenty of options available to them.

Here are the top 10 players still available for Detroit to draft:

K.J. Hill, WR, Ohio State

The Lions could secure their slot receiver of the future by selecting Hill. He’s fast, shifty, and a solid route runner. On top of all of that, he’s known to make some spectacular catches. Detroit has the chance to nab a trustworthy target for Matthew Stafford in the fourth round.

Curtis Weaver, EDGE, Boise State

Though they already got themselves a pass rusher in the third round, it wouldn’t hurt the Lions to double-dip at the position. He’d be an instant contributor on defense by providing capable depth on the edge.

Bradlee Anae, EDGE Utah

Speaking of EDGE rushers, Anae could be an option if the Lions want an extra JACK linebacker in their rotation. He’s not as athletic as Weaver, but still fits the mold of what Detroit is looking for. The Lions spent a lot of time with him at the Senior Bowl, so expect him to be on their radar.

Troy Dye, ILB, Oregon

Dye was a four-year starter for the Ducks who excelled at dropping into coverage. The Lions have long struggled at finding linebackers who can cover both running backs and tight ends in space, and Dye could be that guy for them.

Jack Driscoll, OT, Auburn

Driscoll started two seasons at right tackle for Auburn, and the Lions have a battle going on at that very position. He’s a tremendous athlete who can use his mobility to his advantage. Whether he starts or serves as a backup, he’s a perfect match in Detroit.

Ben Bredeson, IOL, Michigan

Another position that Detroit could double up on is the interior offensive line. Bredeson is a big-bodied lineman who could come in and challenge Joe Dahl for the left guard spot or provide solid depth at the position.

Jason Strowbridge, IDL, UNC

After losing A’Shawn Robinson and Mike Daniels in free agency, the Lions are in desperate need of depth at the 3T and 5T spots. He’s an excellent run defender who can easily be a contributor in the defensive line rotation.

Leki Fotu, IDL, Utah

A former rugby player, Fotu was able to translate that athleticism into his defensive line play. At 330 pounds, he doesn’t lose easily against offensive lineman. He would bring a unique skill set to the Lions as a nose tackle with a knack for rushing the passer.

K’Von Wallace, S, Clemson

Wallace is an elite athlete who projects best as a contributor in three-safety sets. His best play is in the box, where he excels in coverage. He’d provide excellent depth at the position in 2020.

Braden Mann, P, Texas A&M

With longtime punter Sam Martin now in Denver, the Lions need a young guy who they can rely on for years to come. Mann is the best punter in this draft and would be a great pick for Detroit in the later rounds.

2020 NFL Draft Ranking: Guards

2020 NFL Draft Ranking: Guards

The Cleveland Browns are getting to be addressing the offensive tackle position early, but they are also going to be looking to add another contributor to the interior. This year’s guard class is weaker than most, but there are a few players who are ready to contribute immediately.

Just a reminder that I grade generously and optimistically.

Most writers only rank 20-25 first-round grades and that is probably more indicative of their talent rather than where they are selected. I rank prospects based on the highest I could possibly see them be snagged.

Just a reminder that I grade like I make love: generously

Most writers only rank 20-25 first-round grades and that is probably more indicative of their talent rather than where they are selected. I rank prospects based on the highest I could possibly see them be snagged.

1st Round

1. Robert Hunt, Louisiana-Lafayette, 6-5, 323 pounds

Hunt is an already large individual and he looks like he could potentially add even more weight while still maintaining his surprisingly quick feet. He also provides versatility as he could play tackle if need be. The biggest obstacle for Hunt is that he struggles against counter-moves.

2. Netane Muti, Fresno St., 6-3, 315 pounds

Muti is an absolute stud and showed off his versatility, dominating at both guard and tackle while in college. He has immense potential, but he is a polarizing prospect due to concerns about his health. Muti only played two games in 2018 due to an Achilles tear and three games in 2019 due to a Lisfranc injury.

3. Ben Bredeson, Michigan, 6-5, 315 pounds

Bredeson was the true star in the Wolverine offense as he rarely had a bad game as a four-year starter. His strength and size allow him to thrive on the inside and this should allow him to see time sooner rather than later. A few teams maybe turned off by Bredeson due to his lack of ideal athleticism.

4. John Simpson, Clemson, 6-4, 321 pounds

The All-American dominates in the run game and loves to find work in the second level. He looks like how a GM would create a mauling guard and he plays with that style as well. Simpson has missed one or two blocks, but that can likely be chalked up to sloppiness, but there are athletic concerns too.

5. Damien Lewis, LSU, 6-2, 327 pounds

Lewis is a former JUCO stud that once he found his footing at LSU started 27 games in a row at right guard. All-SEC player who was vital in helping the Tigers win the Joe Moore Award for the nation’s best line. Lewis has the ideal body size for an immovable object. Lewis is a bit rough in the passing game and that will need work at the next level.

2nd Round

6. Shane Lemieux, Oregon, 6-4, 310 pounds

Lemieux loves to drive opponents into the dirt, but also has quick enough feet to work in space and can be special when asked to pull as a lead blocker. Like Lewis, Lemieux is not the most ideal pass protector and this will need to improve for him to start at the next level.

7. Solomon Kindley, Georgia, 6-3, 337 pounds

Kindley is a three-year starter with 32 starts under his belt. He was recruited as a tackle, but made the transition early in his college career and saw extensive minutes on both the left and right side. He loves looking for working until the whistle blows. Kindley is still fairly raw as he often just needed his strength to win in college. He may need a red-shirt season.

8. Logan Stenberg, Kentucky, 6-6, 317 pounds

Stenberg is arguably the best in the class in working in close quarters and has the ideal strength that should allow that trait to transition to the NFL. He has a powerful initial punch. Stenberg would be ranked higher on this list, but he is not the ideal athlete teams look for.

9. Ezra Cleveland, Boise St., 6-6, 311 pounds

Cleveland is a three-year starter at tackle for an extremely fast-paced offense and he only helped himself with a fantastic Senior Bowl week. He also has great size with the potential to add more weight. Cleveland had a very impressive combine, but I don’t see that athleticism on film and believe he gets beat by more athletic edge rushers if he remains at tackle.

10. Ben Bartch, St. Johns, 6-6, 309 pounds

Bartch thrives when moving to the second level and maybe the best in the class at attacking downfield. This is likely due to his tight end roots as he only made the transition to tackle in college. Bartch is still a raw prospect with a ton of room to grow, but he is still learning the position and his level of competition did him no favors.

11. Jonah Jackson, Ohio St., 6-3, 306 pounds

Jackson has impressive hands with the strength to hold onto a defender as long as needed. His hands are also very active and quick and he can reset them when needed, especially against counter-moves. He also has excellent ability to mirror defenders. Jackson is not the best athlete.

12. Tremayne Anchrum, Clemson, 6-2, 314 pounds

Anchrum was All-ACC this past season and has been the starter at right tackle for the Tigers the last two years. He has been a vital part of the team’s 29-1 record the last two seasons and his versatility will help at the next level as well. Anchrum best projects to guard due to his severe lack of length.

3rd Round

13. Simon Stepaniak, Indiana, 6-4, 313 pounds

Stepaniak has a ton of experience as he started 31 games for the Hoosiers and has obvious leadership qualities as he was named team captain. He also provides versatility as he played extensively on both the left and right sides. He does have the ideal size to go with the requisite strength, but lacks the length most teams are wanting and is not an option as tackle.

14. Calvin Throckmorton, Oregon, 6-5, 317 pounds

Throckmorton is arguably the most consistent and versatile lineman in this class as he has taken snaps all across the line. He has a good frame to land on the inside at the next level. Throckmorton doesn’t have the explosive initial get off needed to stay at tackle and this isn’t ideal at guard either. Browns fans will remember former 2016 fifth round selection, Spencer Drango and Throckmorton shares a lot of the same traits as Drango, but with a tad higher ceiling.

15. Kevin Dotson, Louisiana-Lafayette, 6-4, 310 pounds

There is a lot to like about Dotson, he is built like the prototypical guard and he plays with ideal strength. He also has the length needed to play at the next level and can thrive in space and land body blows when on the move. Dotson likes his job and takes joy in putting dudes in the dirt. The problem with Dotson is he is not the smoothest pass protector.

16. Jon Runyan, Michigan, 6-4, 306 pounds

Runyan plays like a prospect with NFL bloodlines as he is a fairly technical player and he provides instant versatility considering that he played tackle in college. Runyan can play in the NFL for ten seasons as he has the football IQ to remain on rosters. He projects best at guard though due to his struggles in the passing game.

17. Terence Steele, Texas Tech, 6-6, 312 pounds

Steele was red-shirted in 2015 and immediately became the starting left tackle in 2016 and eventually started 37 games in a row at right tackle. Don’t let the lack of post-season honors fool you. Steele was one of the better linemen in the Big -12 and has the ideal length with a wingspan of 85 1/8 inches and 35 7/8 inch arms, which were some of the best numbers at the combine and Senior Bowl.

Steele is a waist bender and this bad habit needs to change and makes it hard to project him at tackle as edge rushers will eat that up. Steele has a similar profile to that of former Houston Texan, Chris Clark. That has made this a common comparison, but Steele has a higher ceiling than the ten-year veteran.

18. Steven Gonzalez, Penn St., 6-4, 341 pounds

Gonzalez plays with great strength and was named All-Big 10 after having another dominating season. He has plenty of experience as he has been the starter at left guard the last three seasons for the Nittany Lions. Gonzalez doesn’t have the quickest feet even for someone of his size they are a bit underwhelming.

19. Daishawn Dixon. San Diego St., 6-5, 330 pounds

Dixon is a prime candidate to be an immediate impact player and is the potential sleeper in this group. Dixon has dominated his competition as a three-year starter at left guard in a pro-style offense and has the right body type; all these combined means an easy transition to the NFL. Dixon isn’t ranked higher due to his lack of ideal athleticism and time will tell how much this hinders him.

4th Round

20. Gage Cervenka, Clemson, 6-3, 325 pounds

21. Marcus Keyes, Oklahoma St., 6-4, 315 pounds

22. Kyle Murphy, Rhode Island, 6-3, 316 pounds

23. Tre’Vour Wallace-Simms, Missouri, 6-5, 330 pounds

24. Michael Onwenu, Michigan, 6-3, 344 pounds

25. John Phillips, Boston College, 6-6, 305 pounds

26. Scott Frantz, Kansas St., 6-5, 303 pounds

7th Round

27. Zack Johnson, North Dakota St., 6-6, 310 pounds

28. Dallas Warmack, Oregon, 6-2, 310 pounds

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Best OL prospect for the Ravens in each round of the 2020 NFL Draft

An offensive lineman in each round of the NFL Draft to interest the Baltimore Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens could stand to improve their offensive line in the 2020 NFL Draft, particularly in light of certain developments concerning their 2019 personnel.

While the Ravens are returning 10 of their 11 offensive starters from last season, their lone loss is a massive one. Long-time guard Marshal Yanda called it a career this offseason, creating a big hole in their offensive line that they’ll have to fill. While Ben Powers shouldn’t be forgotten and should be penciled in as the starter there, Baltimore could turn to the 2020 NFL Draft to find more competition for the now-vacant role.

In addition to right guard, the Ravens could use more depth along their entire offensive line. Though Patrick Mekari filled in well and Matt Skura appears to be rehabilitating nicely from the torn ACL, MCL, PCL and dislocated knee cap that sent him to injured reserve last season, there’s no clear timetable for his return. With Baltimore’s offense being so run-heavy and an emphasis on protecting mobile MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson, the offensive line could be one area the Ravens focus in on for the 2020 NFL Draft.

With all of that in mind, here’s how Baltimore could fill their offensive line needs in each round of the 2020 NFL Draft.

Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

1st Round – C/G Lloyd Cushenberry, LSU

Skura was good in 2019 before suffering his injury and Mekari filled in well. But in Cushenberry, the Ravens have a chance to nab the top center prospect in this draft class. Cushenberry was a member of the LSU line that won the Joe Moore Award for the best line in college football last season, also helping propel quarterback Joe Burrow as the sure-fire No. 1 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.

Cushenberry took snaps at both center and guard for LSU, so he offers some positional versatility. He is an excellent pass protector but could stand to develop a nastier edge in the ground game. He is a good run blocker, but with some development, he could become great.

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Scouting breakdown: The 11 best interior offensive linemen in the NFL draft

Tackles get the attention, but interior offensive linemen are critical. Who are the 11 best interior line prospects in the 2020 NFL Draft?

Sure, offensive tackles grab the headlines, and prospects that have a chance to be drafted on the edge of the offensive line want to make that stick in the NFL. Because that is going to translate to a bigger contract when it is time for your second deal in the league.

But there are only two tackle spots up front, and three in the interior line. Yes, perhaps guards and centers are devalued a bit come draft time, as well as in free agency, but study Tom Brady sometime and ask yourself this: What bothers him more, pressure off the edge, or pressure in the interior?

Guards and centers matter schematically. So you better have some good ones. Teams looking to address these positions would be wise to keep these eleven players in mind.

1. Cesar Ruiz, IOL, Michigan

(AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

Height: 6’3″ Weight: 307
40-Yard Dash: 5.08 seconds
Bench Press: 28 reps
Vertical Jump: 33 inches
Broad Jump: 9 feet 6 inches
3-Cone Drill: 7.91 seconds
20-Yard Shuttle: 4.64 seconds
60-Yard Shuttle: N/A

Bio: Cesar Ruiz was the top center prospect in the country coming out of IMG Academy, and had no list of suitors. Ruiz joined IMG Academy after starting his high school career in Camden, growing up in a very tough neighborhood. Almost 30 schools gave Ruiz a scholarship offer, including Florida, Auburn and North Carolina, but he chose to play for Michigan.

Ruiz was pressed into action early, starting in Week 10 of his freshman year and finishing the season as the Wolverines’ starting right guard. He was moved to center for the 2018 season and started every game for Michigan that season. He locked down that spot for the Wolverines again last season.

Ruiz’s story is also one of personal tragedy. His father passed away in December of 2007, when Cesar was only eight years old. His father, Cesar Edwin Ruiz, had pulled over to the side of the road to help another driver with a flat tire. A driver then collided with both the elder Ruiz and the stranded motorist, killing Ruiz’s father. It was two years later that Ruiz turned to the sport of football, putting him on a path towards the NFL. As he told the media during the Scouting Combine, everything he does, he does with his father on his mind.

Stat to Know: Ruiz allowed just three sacks on 2,116 snaps while at Michigan.

Strengths: Ruiz is a versatile offensive lineman, given his experience at both guard and center. On film he displays good lateral quickness with fast hands, and he is usually the first to initiate contact in pass protection and starts with the advantage as a result. His athleticism is something to behold, as his impressive 20-yard shuttle (95th percentile) illustrates. He is quick when asked to long pull to the outside, and shows the athleticism, footwork and vision to consistently climb to the second level and take on linebackers.

In pass protection, Ruiz is extremely aware, constantly scanning for loopers or twisters and if uncovered, he is always looking for work. He displays good awareness and recognition of blitzers, whether early or late in the snap, and he is adept at handling/passing off interior stunts and twists. He also maintains control of the situation when a defensive lineman attempts a secondary pass rushing move, and is able to counter those attempts with ease. He also fights hard to maintain his anchor, or reanchor his base, against slanting bull rushers who have a leverage advantage pre-snap.

Ruiz is also a finisher. He will block his assignment until the whistle – or a little longer if he wants to – and loves to get his guy to the turf. Ruiz does a solid job of continuing to chug his feet post-contact, leading to his reputation as a finisher. He also has what you can describe as textbook “secondary” technique. For example on some zone running schemes he uses a rip technique of his own to counter the initial contact from the defender and get himself to the outside.

Weaknesses: Ruiz tends to drop his eyes before contact, which leads to some whiffs either at the point of contact or in space when he is pulling or working to the outside on a zone running design. There are questions about his athleticism, and therefore his ability to fit in a zone-heavy scheme, but on film he displayed to me the athleticism and technique to operate in such an offense.

Conclusion: Ruiz has the experience, athleticism, strength and mental approach to be a stout interior offensive lineman in any NFL system. He uses his hands and feet well, he wants to finish plays on every snap, he is always looking for work and fights to the whistle every chance he gets. Set to turn 21 this summer, the sky could be the limit for this Michigan offensive lineman.

Comparison: Pro Football Focus compared him to Maurkice Pouncey, and that seems apt given what Ruiz offers as a prospect. There are some flaws but he is a very complete player.

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The Athletic’s latest NFL mock draft sees two first-round Michigan picks

Dane Brugler released his fifth mock draft, a full seven-rounds, and saw 8 Wolverines selected, including two in the first-round.

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This is the first time we’ve seen this in 2020 mock drafts, but the theme is consistent with recent years when Michigan has put several players into the NFL.

In 2016, when Michigan led all of college football with 11 NFL draft picks, Taco Charlton and Jabrill Peppers were both selected in the first-round. In 2019, the Wolverines put Devin Bush Jr. and Rashan Gary into the league with the No. 10 and No. 12 picks, respectively.

According to The Athletic’s Dane Brugler in his NFL mock draft 5.0 ($), the maize and blue again had two first-round selections.

While many have prognosticated that early entrant, center Cesar Ruiz, would sneak into the tail end first-round, Brugler sees things similarly, but also says another Michigan teammate will join him, albeit several picks earlier.

It’s part of a seven-round mock that sees eight Wolverines selected, with a few changes compared to some of the usual suspects we’ve seen picked in other multiple-round mocks.

  • No. 27 (1) – Josh Uche – Seattle Seahawks

The Seahawks are always a wild card on draft day so I wouldn’t be surprised to see a stunner here like Wisconsin’s Jonathan Taylor. But I’m going with Uche, who gives Seattle an explosive edge threat and a player just scratching the surface of his ability.

  • No. 31 (1) – Cesar Ruiz – San Francisco 49ers

With the 49ers not picking again until the fifth round, good bet they look to trade back (maybe for a team looking to trade up for Jordan Love?). But if they stay put, upgrading the interior offensive line is on the priority list and Ruiz has big upside as a center-guard.

  • No. 107 (4) – Ben Bredeson – Cincinnati Bengals
  • No. 115 (4) – Donovan Peoples-Jones – Cleveland Browns
  • No. 161 (5) – Josh Metellus – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
  • No. 188 (6) – Jon Runyan Jr. – Buffalo Bills (from Cleveland)
  • No. 205 (6) – Michael Onwenu – Minnesota Vikings
  • No. 245 (7) – Sean McKeon – San Francisco 49ers

This is the first mock draft from a major publication that includes Michael Onwenu and Sean McKeon and we’ve found very few that have had Josh Metellus — though none this high. But it’s rare that we haven’t seen VIPER Khaleke Hudson, who had a solid showing in the NFL Scouting Combine, be selected in a seven-round mock, and we’d anticipate that CB Lavert Hill and DE Mike Danna could also be picks.

There has been ample speculation in recent weeks that former five-star QB Shea Patterson could go undrafted, such as this from Rivals’ Mike Farrell:

Overview: Patterson played in only 10 games over two seasons at Ole Miss as he dealt with injuries and then he transferred to Michigan to re-spark his career. Rated as the third-best prospect in the 2016 class, Patterson posted good numbers in Ann Arbor but he hardly showed elite passing ability and there’s a decent possibility that he will go undrafted. He finished his college career with 8,800 passing yards with 68 touchdowns and 27 interceptions, only 52 fewer yards than Joe Burrow in two fewer games. An early Arizona pledge who then ended up at Ole Miss, only Rashan Gary and Dexter Lawrence were ranked higher than Patterson in the 2016 class.

Farrell’s take: Patterson had everything you wanted in a quarterback coming out of high school. He was mobile, his arm strength was solid and he had that moxie and confidence you want. It never really showed consistently on the field at either Ole Miss or Michigan, and that’s surprising. Size was the main question about him in high school, but now there are many more questions surrounding him.

The 2020 NFL Draft is slated to begin virtually on April 23.