Such is the time of year, when college football programs start shoring up their rosters with the non-scholarship players who hope to eventually earn a spot in the 85 who are on scholarship.
Michigan football is certainly not immune to such things, and has added many preferred walk-ons throughout the years who have eventually earned scholarships.
Among them, last year, Jess Speight and Andrew Vastardis became scholarship players, with the former starting against Alabama and the latter playing significant minutes against Ohio State. Running back Tru Wilson, who converted to tailback from defensive back, was once a walk-on before earning a scholarship and significant minutes. Plenty others have moved up and made a significant impact — including former safety Jordan Kovacs who eventually was drafted into the NFL and played for multiple seasons before becoming a coach.
So you never know who will emerge from those ranks. And it’s always good to get solid in-state talent. And Michigan got a commitment from a Lake Orion wideout who will come aboard as a 2020 preferred walk-on.
Taking go Twitter to announce his pledge, 2020 Lake Orion (MI) wide receiver Sam Staruch will continue his career in Ann Arbor as a Wolverine.
I am very honored to say that I will be continuing my education and athletic career at The University of Michigan as a PWO!! Big thanks to @John_cmu29 and @Mr_Burden_LO Go Blue!! @Coach_Casula @CoachJim4UM pic.twitter.com/CSOx1a3zCE
— Sam Staruch (@sam_staruch) February 5, 2020
Watch his senior highlights below:
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