Pro Football Focus ranked the Wolverines the third on their list of college football team’s returning the most in 2016-17.
For those following PFF all spring and summer, it’s no surprise to see Michigan on the list. They have the nation’s best defensive line which include four players who played at least 330 snaps and graded at 83.0 or higher (DT Maurice Hurst, DT Ryan Glasgow, DT Chris Wormley, DE Taco Charlton). Jabrill Peppers is slotted to play more linebacker this year after posting a strong 85.5 grade as a safety/slot hybrid a year ago and let’s not forget CB Jourdan Lewis whose 89.1 grade is the best of all returning cornerbacks. While the defense is the clear strength of the team, the offense has strong skill position players in WR Jehu Chesson (78.4) and one of the nation’s top receiving tight ends in Jake Butt (80.9). RB De’Veon Smith is coming off a strong year while former OT Mason Cole moves to center to anchor the offensive line. Michigan is looking for a game-managing quarterback to feed their playmakers and let the defense win games.
