The Wolverine

September 2016

The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports

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52 THE WOLVERINE SEPTEMBER 2016 WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Brian Cole, WR/DB: Cole is an outstanding athlete, and reports had him vying for playing time after moving to safety from wide receiver, but off-the-field transgressions did him in. He was kicked off the team last year and transferred to Kentucky, initially — it was later reported he'd spend the year at junior college pow- erhouse East Mississippi this fall. ❏ REPORT CARD — INC. Lower numbers mean less con- tributors, and while there's not much star power in the group, there are enough players who could make the class a success when it's all said and done. Much of that depends on how the guys on the cusp make the most of their opportunities the next couple of years, but it ap- pears many are in good shape to make a move and putting in the time necessary to succeed. Name Pos. Recruiting Stars Andrew David PK 2 Is waiting his turn behind fifth-year senior Kenny Allen and probably won't get a shot to play until next season. Zach Gentry TE 4 The former quarterback has great potential at his new position and started to show it in the spring. He still needs to add weight and strength, but he should play. Karan Higdon RB 3 Showed some flashes as a true freshman but also missed some opportunities. He'll need a good camp to compete for signifi- cant carries in a crowded backfield. Reuben Jones DE 3 Spent some time at linebacker in the spring, but moved back to defensive end. A physical specimen who is still learning. Shelton Johnson DE 3 Has shown flashes, but needs to bear down both on and off the field if he hopes to contribute. Tyree Kinnel DB 4 Played sparingly on special teams last year and had an up- and-down spring. U-M needs safety depth, so he needs to step up this fall. Alex Malzone QB 3 Waiting his turn behind a number of others and isn't expected to compete for the starting job in the near future. Name Pos. Recruiting Stars Grant Newsome OT 4 Played as a true freshman, including a start against Minnesota, and is now the frontrunner to take over at left tackle with junior Mason Cole's move to center. Grant Perry WR 3 Surprised as a true freshman contributor and is ready to take the next step forward as a sophomore. A steady slot receiver with good hands. Jon Runyan Jr. OL 3 Up to 304 pounds and starting to come into his own. He'll provide depth on the line and compete for a starting spot next year. Nolan Ulizio OL 2 Starting to make strides and will add depth to the line this year; he should be ready to compete for a starting job next season. Keith Washington CB 3 Still learning the position but has instincts and is very fluid. He's vying for the No. 4 cornerback spot. Tyrone Wheatley Jr. TE 4 A man-child at 276 pounds. He'll play a key role this season as an extra blocker on running plays, but he can also catch the ball. 2015 CLASS OVERVIEW Players In Class: 14 Rivals.com Team Ranking: No. 51 Players Still At Michigan: 13 The presence of sophomore Grant Newsome (pictured) gave the coaches confidence to move two-year starter Mason Cole from left tackle to center this spring; Newsome should line up on the blind side in the fall. PHOTO BY PER KJELDSEN

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