2015 Season Countdown: #61 Jaron Dukes

Jaron Dukes

Name: Jaron Dukes
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 204 lbs.
High school: Columbus (OH) Marion Franklin
Position: Wide receiver
Class: Redshirt sophomore
Jersey number: #83
Last year: I ranked Dukes #81 and said he would be a backup wide receiver. He did not see game action.

Last season Michigan did not get great production from its wide receivers, but Dukes still did not manage to find his way onto the field. He is not particularly big or fast or athletic. But he has put on approximately seven pounds since he arrived on campus, and he is now approaching an appropriate weight for someone of his height. Additionally, he was targeted several times in the spring game, and he even notched the contest's only touchdown on a fade pattern from Shane Morris (over the head of 5'7" utility man Dennis Norfleet, who was unfairly deployed at cornerback after barely practicing there). Aside from abusing Norfleet in the spring game, I have yet to be convinced that Dukes can be an effective target - but his utilization in the spring game is more than Brady Hoke ever did with him. Dukes might be one of those guys who benefits from a coaching change. I doubt he'll start, but he could sub in when guys get winded or when the game gets out of hand.

Prediction: Backup wide receiver

2014 Season Countdown: #81 Jaron Dukes

Jaron Dukes (image via MGoBlog)

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Name: Jaron Dukes
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 200 lbs.
High school: Columbus (OH) Marion Franklin
Position: Wide receiver
Class: Redshirt freshman
Jersey number: #83
Last year: I ranked Dukes #80 and said he would redshirt. He redshirted.

Dukes came in a little light last year and doesn't have great speed, so he needed at least a year to bulk up. He has added three pounds. He is in essentially the same spot as he was last year despite the graduation of Jeremy Gallon, Jeremy Jackson, and Drew Dileo. The Wolverines brought in three pretty good receivers in the 2014 class, one of whom (Freddy Canteen) has already made waves with his play in the spring. I would expect a couple of the freshmen to shoot past Dukes on the depth chart on athleticism alone, so I believe he will watch from the sideline this year unless a blowout occurs.

Prediction: Backup wide receiver

Poll results: Who will be Michigan's leading receiver?

This is a poll I took over the summer, prior to the season. Then things got busy and I didn't have a chance to post the results.

Who do you think Michigan's leading receiver will be in 2013? All statistics are through seven games.

Jeremy Gallon: 79%
Gallon took a pretty commanding lead with his 369-yard performance against Indiana, but as of now, he has 45 catches for 831 yards and 7 touchdowns.

Amara Darboh: 10%
Darboh suffered a foot injury shortly before the season began, has not played, and is expected to miss the rest of the year.

Devin Funchess: 3%
Funchess has 23 catches for 492 yards and 4 touchdowns. He was pushing Gallon for the lead, but now he's 339 yards behind.

Drew Dileo: 1% (6 votes)
Dileo has 8 catches for 99 yards and 1 touchdown. I expect him to catch a few more passes down the stretch, but he's obviously out of the running.

Jehu Chesson: 1% (5 votes)
Chesson's 7 catches for 98 yards and 1 touchdown aren't particularly impressive, but the physical skills are there to be a leading receiver someday. He needs to work on his hands and on adjusting to balls in the air.

Jeremy Jackson: 1% (4 votes)
Jackson has notched 5 catches for 53 yards.

Da'Mario Jones: 1% (4 votes)
Jones has yet to see time on offense, although he has played on special teams.

Joe Reynolds: 1% (4 votes)
Reynolds has 3 catches for 56 yards after being passed up for playing time by Chesson.

Csont'e York: 1% (4 votes)
York has played sparingly this season and has yet to make a catch.

Other: 0% (2 votes)
I don't know who else might have received a vote. Maybe Dennis Norfleet's parents stopped by to vote.

Jaron Dukes: 0% (0 votes)
Yeah, nobody voted for him.

2013 Season Countdown: #80 Jaron Dukes

Jaron Dukes (right, with Khalid Hill and Jake Butt)

Name: Jaron Dukes
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 197 lbs.
High school: Columbus (OH) Marion-Franklin
Position: Wide receiver
Class: Freshman
Jersey number: #83
Last year: Dukes was a senior in high school. I gave him a TTB Rating of 59.

Dukes committed to Michigan in February 2012 after a pretty solid junior year. Never an upper echelon prospect, he had a mediocre senior year due to some iffy quarterback play.  Michigan fans did get a little excitement when Dukes had a good game against future Ohio State cornerback Cam Burrows, from Trotwood-Madison, but overall it was a pretty anticlimactic senior year.

Dukes enters college with a long frame and plenty of room to add weight, a kid that could easily reach 220-225 pounds.  The knock on him is somewhat limited athleticism and speed.  He could be the first receiver from the 2013 class to hit the field due to his size, because freshman receivers sometimes get in the game just due to how they might help in the running game; last year the coaches kept the slight Jehu Chesson on the bench while the physically developed Amara Darboh saw the field in limited action. However, even if he does see playing time, I doubt Dukes will be an integral part of the offense this season.

Prediction: Redshirt

Poll results: Best wide receiver in 2013 class?

Westland (MI) John Glenn wide receiver Da'Mario Jones

Last week I asked the readers to choose who would be the best wideout in the 2013 class.  Overwhelmingly, TTB readers chose Da'Mario Jones.  Here are the results:

Da'Mario Jones - WR - Westland (MI) John Glenn: 71%
Jones is a 6'2", 185 lb., 3-star prospect.  He has a little more speed than the other two receivers in the class, but he was under the radar, partly because he bounced from New Jersey to Michigan before his senior year.  Jones was my choice for the top receiver in the class.  Here's his commitment post.

Jaron Dukes - WR - Columbus (OH) Marion Franklin: 15%
Dukes is about 6'4" and around 200 lbs.  He did not have a great senior season, which has been partly blamed (according to observers, not Dukes) on a lack of quality quarterback play at Marion Franklin.  My biggest question about Dukes is his lack of speed, which might limit him to being an occasional target as a possession receiver; of course, he could also be a good red zone target due to his size.  He has some upside, but his athleticism leaves a little to be desired. (Commitment post.)

Csont'e York - WR - Harper Woods (MI) Chandler Park: 13%
If I were ranking these guys, I would have put York second and Dukes third.  While York lacks some of Dukes's length, I think York is a more natural pass catcher.  He's still not an explosive target, but he adjusts well to the ball in the air and catches the ball with his hands away from his body.  I think he will be a quality target on jump balls and near the sideline, somewhat like a Brandon Lloyd (minus some speed) who can contort himself into making some difficult catches. (Commitment post.)

Scout: Class of 2013 Ohio Final State Rankings

Dymonte Thomas is the #2 player in the state of Ohio for the class of 2013

Scout finalized its state of Ohio rankings for the class of 2013.  Here are some notes for Michigan fans:

2. Dymonte Thomas - S - Alliance (OH) Marlington: Offered, committed to Michigan.
3. DeVeon Smith - RB - Warren (OH) Howland: Offered, committed to Michigan.
4. Evan Lisle - OT - Centerville (OH) Centerville: Offered, committed to Ohio State.
5. Cameron Burrows - CB - Trotwood (OH) Trotwood-Madison: Offered, committed to Ohio State.
6. Gareon Conley - CB - Massillon (OH) Washington: Offered, committed to Ohio State.
7. Jake Butt - TE - Pickerington (OH) North: Offered, committed to Michigan.
9. Ben Gedeon - LB - Hudson (OH) Hudson: Offered, committed to Michigan.
11. Taco Charlton - DE - Pickerington (OH) Central: Offered, committed to Michigan.
12. Billy Price - DT - Youngstown (OH) Fitch: Offered, committed to Ohio State.
14. Shane Jones - LB - Cincinnati (OH) Moeller: Offered, committed to Michigan State.
16. Rob Wheelwright - WR - Columbus (OH) Walnut Ridge: Offered, committed to Wisconsin.
19. Jayme Thompson - S - Toledo (OH) Central Catholic: Offered, committed to Ohio State.
20. Godwin Igwebuike - RB - Pickerington (OH) North: Teammate of TE commit Jake Butt.
22. Jacob Matuska - DE - Columbus (OH) Bishop Hartley: Offered, committed to Notre Dame.
24. Michael McCray II - LB - Trotwood (OH) Trotwood-Madison: Offered, committed to Michigan.
32. Jarrod Clements - DT - Trotwood (OH) Trotwood-Madison: Teammate of LB commit Michael McCray II, committed to Illinois.
37. Reon Dawson - CB - Trotwood (OH) Trotwood-Madison: Offered, committed to Michigan.
38. Ross Douglas - CB - Avon (OH) Avon: Offered, committed to Michigan.
39. Matt Miller - OG - Toledo (OH) St. John's: Brother of Michigan center Jack Miller, committed to Wisconsin.
40. Marcus Ball - S - Westerville (OH) South: Offered.
47. Jaron Dukes - WR - Columbus (OH) Walnut Ridge: Offered, committed to Michigan.
52. Kevin Gladney - WR - Akron (OH) Firestone: Offered, committed to Nebraska.
58. Dan Monteroso - WR - St. Clairsville (OH) St. Clairsville: Teammate of 2014 LB commit Michael Ferns.

Recruit Tracker: Jaron Dukes

Jaron Dukes

August 24, 2012:  Dukes' Columbus (OH) Marion-Franklin team beat Columbus Brookhaven by a score of 20-14.  Dukes described his performance as the "worst game I've ever had."  Marion-Franklin is now 1-0.

August 31, 2012:  Marion-Franklin lost to Michigan commitment Taco Charlton and Pickerington (OH) Pickerington Central by a score of 45-24.  Dukes caught 5 passes for 42 yards.  Marion-Franklin is now 1-1.

September 7, 2012:  Marion-Franklin beat Canal Winchester (OH) by a score of 28-3.  Dukes recorded "over 100 yards and 1 TD," according to his twitter account.  His team is now 2-1.

September 14, 2012:  Marion-Franklin routed Columbus (OH) Briggs, 72-6.  Dukes caught 4 passes for 107 yards and 2 touchdowns in the game.  Marion-Franklin is now 3-1.

September 21, 2012:  After a weather delay caused the game to be postponed to Saturday morning, Marion-Franklin took down Columbus (OH) Independence by a score of 36-30.  Dukes caught 2 passes for 24 yards.  Marion-Franklin is now 4-1.

September 28, 2012:  Marion-Franklin overcame five turnovers to beat Columbus (OH) Walnut Ridge by a score of 7-6.  Jaron Dukes "didn't see many passes thrown his way" but did make a nice play on the ball in the fourth quarter for a 10-yard game-winning touchdown reception.  His team is now 5-1.

October 5, 2012:  Marion-Franklin dominated Columbus (OH) Africentric Early College, 73-20.  Dukes had two catches for 30 yards and a touchdown.  His team is now 6-1.

October 12, 2012:  Marion-Franklin defeated Columbus (OH) West by a score of 53-14.  Dukes had one reception for 38 yards in the game.  Marion-Franklin is now 7-1.

October 19, 2012: Marion-Franklin beat Columbus (OH) Eastmoor Academy by a score of 6-0.  Marion-Franklin is now 8-1.

October 26, 2012: Marion-Franklin beat Columbus (OH) South by a score of 43-21.  Marion Franklin is now 9-1.

November 2, 2012: Marion-Franklin beat Licking Heights (OH) Licking Heights by a score of 46-14.  Marion Franklin is now 10-1.

November 9, 2012: Marion-Franklin beat Canal Winchester (OH) Canal Winchester by a score of 44-14.  Dukes had 3 receptions for 38 yards and 1 touchdown.  Marion-Franklin is now 11-1.

November 16, 2012: Marion-Franklin lost to New Albany (OH) New Albany by a score of 32-30.  Dukes caught 2 passes for 28 yards and a two-point conversion.  Marion-Franklin ends the year 11-2.

Final stats: 31 receptions, 553 yards, 9 touchdowns

ESPN 300 for 2013 Updated

ESPN released its updated top 300 list for the class of 2013.  Here's what it looked like back in July, and here's the movement for Michigan commits:

- Shane Morris fell from #26 to #54
- Gareon Conley jumped from #63 to #62
- Dymonte Thomas dropped from #94 to #97
- Logan Tuley-Tillman dropped from #102 to #105
- Mike McCray dropped from #108 to #111
- Chris Fox dropped from #112 to #113
- Patrick Kugler jumped from #116 to #115
- Taco Charlton jumped from #120 to #119
- Kyle Bosch fell from #126 to #127
- Jake Butt fell from #171 to #176
- Jaron Dukes fell from #224 to #233
- Ben Gedeon dropped from #278 to #282
- Henry Poggi dropped from #259 to #288

3. Vernon Hargreaves III - CB - Florida (Florida)
4. Laremy Tunsil - OT - Florida
6. Eli Woodard - CB - New Jersey (Ohio State)
7. Montravius Adams - DT - Georgia
9. Jaylon Smith - LB - Indiana (Notre Dame)
10. Su'a Cravens - S - California (USC)
14. Kendall Fuller - CB - Maryland (Virginia Tech)
20. LaQuon Treadwell - WR - Illinois
28. Robert Foster - WR - Pennsylvania
29. Keith Ford - RB - Texas (Oklahoma)
32. Leon McQuay III - S - Florida
33. Eddie Vanderdoes - DT - California (USC)
34. Shaq Wiggins - CB - Georgia (Georgia)
39. Cameron Burrows - CB - Ohio (Ohio State)
40. Jonathan Allen - DE - Virginia (Alabama)
41. Derrick Green - RB - Virginia
43. Maquedius Bain - DT - Florida
46. Joey Bosa - DE - Florida (Ohio State)
50. Priest Willis - CB - Arizona
51. Jordan Cunningham - WR - Florida
53. Michael Hutchings - LB - California (USC)
54. Shane Morris - QB - Michigan (Michigan)
56. Jake Raulerson - OT - Texas (Texas)
62. Gareon Conley - CB - Ohio (Michigan)
64. Alex Anzalone - LB - Pennsylvania (Notre Dame)
66. Adam Breneman - TE - Pennsylvania (Penn State)
67. Kevin Olsen - QB - New Jersey (Miami)
70. Ty Isaac - RB - Illinois (USC)
71. Alvin Bailey - WR - Florida (Florida)
72. Chris Hawkins - CB - California (USC)
73. Demore'ea Stringfellow - WR - California (Washington)
74. Ethan Pocic - OT - Illinois (LSU)
75. Dorian O'Daniel - LB - Maryland (Clemson)
76. Matt Rolin - LB - Virginia (South Carolina)
82. Elijah Daniel - DE - Indiana (Clemson)
83. Maurice Smith - CB - Texas (Alabama)
86. Colin McGovern - OT - Illinois (Notre Dame)
87. David Dawson - OG - Michigan (Michigan)
88. Justin Manning - DT - Texas
92. Jourdan Lewis - CB - Michigan (Michigan)
95. Alquadin Muhammad - DE - New Jersey
97. Dymonte Thomas - S - Ohio (Michigan)
98. James Quick - WR - Kentucky
99. Hunter Bivin - OT - Kentucky (Notre Dame)
105. Logan Tuley-Tillman - OT - Illinois (Michigan)
111. Mike McCray - LB - Ohio (Michigan)
112. Ebenezer Ogundeko - DE - New York
113. Chris Fox - OT - Colorado (Michigan)
115. Patrick Kugler - C - Pennsylvania (Michigan)
119. Taco Charlton - DE - Ohio (Michigan)
122. Tray Matthews - S - Georgia (Georgia)
126. Tashawn Bower - DE - New Jersey (Auburn)
127. Kyle Bosch - OG - Illinois (Michigan)
130. Josh Augusta - DE - Illinois
132. Greg Webb - DT - New Jersey (North Carolina)
133. Marquez North - WR - North Carolina
142. Isaac Rochell - DE - Georgia (Notre Dame)
145. Evan Lisle - OT - Ohio (Ohio State)
149. Antwuan Davis - CB - Texas (Texas)
150. Sebastian LaRue - WR - California (USC)
167. Eldridge Massington - WR - Texas (USC)
176. Jake Butt - TE - Ohio (Michigan)
177. Darrell Daniels - WR - California (Washington)
182. Jason Hatcher - DE - Kentucky (USC)
183. Shane Jones - LB - Ohio (Michigan State)
186. Justin Davis - RB - California (USC)
187. Devin Butler - CB - Washington, DC (Notre Dame)
188. Richard Benjamin - WR - Florida
205. Brendan Mahon - OG - New Jersey (Penn State)
211. Riley Ferguson - QB - North Carolina (Tennessee)
212. Elijah Qualls - DT - California (Washington)
213. Jake Oliver - WR - Texas (Texas)
214. Michael Hill - DT - South Carolina (Ohio State)
217. Jayme Thompson - CB - Ohio (Ohio State)
219. Kyle Hicks - RB - Texas (Texas)
231. Nadir Barnwell - ATH - New Jersey (Rutgers)
233. Jaron Dukes - WR - Ohio (Michigan)
234. Jordan Wilkins - RB - Tennessee (Auburn)
236. Larenz Bryant - LB - North Carolina (South Carolina)
242. Billy Price - DT - Ohio (Ohio State)
247. Marcell Ateman - WR - Texas (Oklahoma State)
250. Uriah LeMay - WR - North Carolina (Georgia)
251. Joe Mathis - DE - California
261. Chase Abbington - ATH - Missouri (Missouri)
265. Scott Pagano - DT - Hawaii (Clemson)
278. Peter Kalambayi - LB - North Carolina (Stanford)
281. Darius Latham - DT - Indiana
282. Ben Gedeon - LB - Ohio (Michigan)
288. Henry Poggi - DT - Maryland (Michigan)
291. E.J. Levenberry, Jr. - LB - Virginia (Florida State)

Visitors: Michigan vs. UMass

Malik McDowell

Pickerington (OH) North TE Jake Butt: Butt committed to Michigan back in February.

Avon (OH) Avon CB Ross Douglas: Douglas committed to Michigan in July.

Columbus (OH) Marion-Franklin WR Jaron Dukes: Dukes committed to Michigan back in February.

Detroit (MI) East English Village TE Khalid Hill: Hill committed to Michigan back in February.

Detroit (MI) Cass Tech RB/LB Gary Hosey: Hosey is a 6'0", 215 lb. athlete from the 2014 class.  He might be physical enough to play fullback, but he does not have the speed to be an FBS tailback.

Westland (MI) John Glenn WR Da'Mario Jones: Jones is a 6'2", 185 lb. wideout who committed to Central Michigan over offers from BGSU and Toledo.  He transferred to John Glenn from Montgomery (NJ) Montgomery.  With LaQuon Treadwell delaying his decision longer and longer - and Michigan appearing to fall back to the pack with him - Michigan might need to offer more receivers in the near future, so Jones might be a guy watch. (Highlights.)

Maitland (FL) Orangewood Christian FB/LB Jimmy Martin: Martin is a 5'11", 205 lb. prospect from the class of 2015.  He claims a 4.62 forty (but was timed at 4.84 at a national combine) and had 111 tackles, 4 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, and 3 fumble recoveries as a freshman in 2011.  Keep in mind that Orangewood is a small Christian school that doesn't play the best competition.  However, he was named to the Maxpreps Freshman All-American Second Team.  His head coach was previously the head coach at Orlando (FL) Dr. Phillips and Orlando (FL) Edgewater, the latter of which sent wide receiver Greg Mathews and linebacker Mike Jones to Michigan. (Freshman highlights.)

Detroit (MI) Loyola DE Malik McDowell: McDowell is a 2014 prospect with offers from Michigan, Michigan State, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Oregon, Stanford, and Wisconsin, among others.  He has been considered to be a heavy Michigan lean, but he's also interested in Michigan State and Ohio State.  He is expected to visit MSU for their game against Notre Dame after he visits Ann Arbor in the afternoon.  McDowell stands 6'6" and weighs 292 lbs., and I think he'll eventually end up at defensive tackle rather than end.

Plantation (FL) American Heritage RB Sony Michel: A 2014 prospect, he already has offers from Alabama, Florida, Florida State, Georgia, Miami, and Notre Dame.  His older brother Marken is the leading receiver for UMass, which is likely the biggest reason for visiting Michigan.  The younger Michel is coming off an ACL tear he suffered during his sophomore year.


Detroit (MI) Southwestern RB Romello Ross: Ross is a 5'11", 180 lb. running back from the class of 2015.  As a freshman in 2011, he had 1,312 yards rushing, 46 tackles, and 6 interceptions.  He doesn't have any offers yet, but that's not unusual for a kid at the beginning of his sophomore season. (Highlights.)

Novi (MI) Catholic Central RB Wyatt Shallman: Shallman committed to Michigan back in February.

Ottawa (IL) Marquette LS Scott Sypniewski: Sypniewski committed to Michigan back in June.

Detroit (MI) Cass Tech CB Damon Webb: Webb is a 5'11", 170 lb. wide receiver/cornerback with offers from LSU, Michigan, Michigan State, Ohio State, and others.  LSU and Michigan appear to be the front runners in his recruitment.

Detroit (MI) Cass Tech LB William White: White is a 6'1", 215 lb. linebacker from the 2014 class.  Of the Cass Tech trio of linebackers, I think White is the second-most talented player behind Deon Drake. (Highlights of White.)

Harper Woods (MI) Chandler Park Academy WR Csont'e York: York committed to Michigan back in May.

Recruit Tracker: Junior season stats for class of 2013

DeVeon Smith's statistics were outstanding in 2011

Wheaton (IL) St. Francis OT Kyle Bosch: No stats available.

Pickerington (OH) North TE Jake Butt: 27 receptions, 424 yards, 7 touchdowns; 17.5 tackles for loss, 10 sacks

Pickerington (OH) Central DE Taco Charlton: No stats available.

Massillon (OH) Washington CB Gareon Conley: 26 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 4 interceptions; 3 receptions for 10 yards; 3 punt returns for 39 yards; 4 kickoff returns for 142 yards

Detroit (MI) Cass Tech OG David Dawson: No stats available.

Columbus (OH) Marion-Franklin WR Jaron Dukes: 36 receptions, 670 yards (18.6 yards per catch), 7 touchdowns

Parker (CO) Ponderosa OT Chris Fox: No stats available.

Hudson (OH) Hudson LB Ben Gedeon: 1,600 yards rushing, 27 touchdowns; 120 tackles, 5 tackles for loss

Detroit (MI) Crockett TE Khalid Hill: 29 catches, 448 yards (15.4 yards per catch), 6 touchdowns; 55 tackles, 9 tackles for loss, 6 sacks

Westwood (MA) Xaverian Brothers DT Maurice Hurst, Jr.: 61 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, 9 sacks; 27 carries, 440 yards (16.3 yards per carry), 3 touchdowns

Wexford (PA) North Allegheny OG Patrick Kugler: No stats available.

Detroit (MI) Cass Tech CB Jourdan Lewis: 52 tackles, 8 interceptions; 6 touchdown receptions, 2 punt return touchdowns, 3 kickoff return touchdowns

Trotwood (OH) Trotwood-Madison LB Mike McCray: 132 tackles, 5 interceptions (3 touchdowns), 2 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery

Warren (MI) De La Salle QB Shane Morris: 121/235 passing, 1684 yards, 19 touchdowns, 7 interceptions; 150 rushing yards, 6 touchdowns

Baltimore (MD) Gilman DT Henry Poggi: 49 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 10 sacks

Novi (MI) Catholic Central RB Wyatt Shallman: No stats available.

Warren (OH) Howland RB DeVeon Smith: 160 carries, 2200 yards (13.75 yards per carry)

Ottawa (IL) Marquette LS Scott Sypniewski: No stats available.

Alliance (OH) Marlington S Dymonte Thomas: 118 carries, 837 yards (7.1 yards per carry), 13 touchdowns; 5 receptions, 105 yards (21 yards per catch), 1 touchdown; 102 tackles, 1 fumble recovery

Peoria (IL) Manual OT Logan Tuley-Tillman: No stats available.

Harper Woods (MI) Chandler Park Academy WR Csont'e York: 36 receptions, 587 yards (16.3 yards per catch), 11 touchdowns

Rivals: Ohio pre-season top 60 for 2013

Mike McCray is the #3 player in Ohio, according to Rivals

Last Friday, Rivals released its top 60 prospects in Ohio for the class of 2013.  Normally, I wouldn't care much about what goes on in Ohio, but several Michigan commits are on the list:

3. Mike McCray - LB - Trotwood (OH) Trotwood-Madison
4. Dymonte Thomas - S - Alliance (OH) Marlington
7. Jake Butt - TE - Pickerington (OH) North
11. Taco Charlton - DE - Pickerington (OH) Central
16. Ben Gedeon - LB - Hudson (OH) Hudson
24. DeVeon Smith - RB - Warren (OH) Howland
27. Jaron Dukes - WR - Columbus (OH) Marion Franklin
39. Gareon Conley - CB - Massillon (OH) Washington

By comparison, Ohio State has #1, #2, #5, #9, #12, and #36.

ESPN 300 for 2013 updated

ESPN released its top 300 players for the class of 2013.  Here's what the top 150 looked like back in April.

Movement for Michigan players:
- Shane Morris jumped from #37 to #32
- Gareon Conley fell from #63 to #64
- Jourdan Lewis jumped from #107 to #92
- Mike McCray fell from #75 to #104
- Chris Fox fell from #105 to #108
- Patrick Kugler jumped from #123 to #112
- Taco Charlton stepped up from #115 to #114
- Kyle Bosch fell from #112 to #120
- Jaron Dukes appears at #216
- Jake Butt appears at #232
- Ben Gedeon appears at #271

5-stars:
3. Laremy Tunsil - OT - Florida
4. Vernon Hargreaves III - CB - Florida

4-stars:
11. Eli Woodard - CB - New Jersey (Ohio State)
13. Montravius Adams - DT - Georgia
14. Su'a Cravens - S - California
19. Cameron Burrows - CB - Ohio (Ohio State)
20. Jaylon Smith - LB - Indiana (Notre Dame)
23. Robert Foster - WR - Pennsylvania
28. Kendall Fuller - CB - Maryland

32. Shane Morris - QB - Michigan (Michigan)

33. Keith Ford - RB - Texas (Oklahoma)
35. Shaq Wiggins - CB - Georgia (Georgia)
38. LaQuon Treadwell - WR - Illinois
39. Leon McQuay III - S - Florida
40. Maquedius Bain - DT - Florida
42. Adam Breneman - TE - Pennsylvania (Penn State)
44. Joey Bosa - DE - Florida
45. Jordan Cunningham - WR - Florida
50. Alvin Bailey - WR - Florida
54. Darrell Daniels - WR - California
57. Eddie Vanderdoes - DT - California
58. Derrick Green - RB - Virginia
59. Michael Hutchings - LB - California
60. James Quick - WR - Kentucky
61. Priest Willis - S - Arizona
64. Gareon Conley - CB - Ohio (Michigan)
66. Alex Anzalone - LB - Pennsylvania
67. Kevin Olsen - QB - New Jersey (Miami)
70. Ty Isaac - RB - Illinois (USC)
71. Chris Hawkins - CB - California (USC)
72. Jonathan Allen - DE - Virginia (Alabama)
73. Demorea Stringfellow - WR - California
75. Ethan Pocic - OT - Illinois (LSU)
76. Dorian O'Daniel - LB - Maryland (Clemson)
79. Matt Rolin - LB - Virginia (South Carolina)
81. Jake Raulerson - OT - Texas (Texas)
85. Elijah Daniel - DE - Indiana
88. Colin McGovern - OT - Illinois (Notre Dame)
89. David Dawson - OG - Michigan (Michigan)
91. Justin Manning - DT - Texas
92. Jourdan Lewis - CB - Michigan (Michigan)
94. Hunter Bivin - OT - Kentucky (Notre Dame)
97. Logan Tuley-Tillman - OT - Illinois (Michigan)

98. Dymonte Thomas - S - Ohio (Michigan)

104. Mike McCray - LB - Ohio (Michigan)
105. Ebenezer Ogundeko - DE - New York

108. Chris Fox - OT - Colorado (Michigan)

112. Patrick Kugler - C - Pennsylvania (Michigan)
114. Taco Charlton - DE - Ohio (Michigan)
115. Tray Matthews - S - Georgia (Georgia)
119. Tashawn Bower - DE - New Jersey
120. Kyle Bosch - OG - Illinois (Michigan)
122. Greg Webb - DT - New Jersey (Penn State)
127. Josh Augusta - DE - Illinois
129. Marquez North - WR - North Carolina
134. Standish Dobard - TE - Louisiana (Miami)
140. Isaac Rochell - DE - Georgia
145. Evan Lisle - OT - Ohio (Ohio State)
147. Alquadin Muhammad - DE - New Jersey
149. Antwuan Davis - CB - Texas(Texas)
150. Sebastian Larue - WR - California
163. Eldridge Massington - WR - Texas (USC)
174. Shane Jones - LB - Ohio (Michigan State)
177. Justin Davis - RB - California (USC)
179. Devin Butler - CB - Washington, D.C. (Notre Dame)
180. Richard Benjamin - WR - Florida
195. Brendan Mahon - OG - Massachusetts (Penn State)
199. Riley Ferguson - QB - North Carolina
201. Billy Price - DT - Ohio (Ohio State)
202. Jayme Thompson - S - Ohio (Ohio State)
214. Nadir Barnwell - ATH - New Jersey
216. Jaron Dukes - WR - Ohio (Michigan)
217. Jordan Wilkins - RB - Tennessee
222. Kyle Hicks - RB - Texas (Texas)
227. Michael Hill - DT - South Carolina
231. Marcell Ateman - WR - Texas (Oklahoma State)
232. Jake Butt - TE - Ohio (Michigan)
233. Jake Oliver - WR - Texas (Texas)
235. Uriah LeMay - WR - North Carolina (Georgia)
236. Joe Mathis - DE - California
249. Scott Pagano - DT - Hawaii
250. Henry Poggi - DT - Maryland (Michigan)
270. Darius Latham - DT - Indiana
271. Ben Gedeon - LB - Ohio (Michigan)
281. Jason Hatcher - DE - Kentucky
284. E.J. Levenberry - LB - Virginia (Florida State)
286. Larenz Bryant - LB - North Carolina
289. John Montelus - OG - Massachusetts (Notre Dame)
298. Peter Kalambayi - LB - North Carolina

Initial TTB Ratings for 2013

Here's an update on the TTB Ratings for the 2013 recruits:

S Dymonte Thomas, 92
The combination of Thomas's athleticism with Greg Mattison's defensive system makes me think that Thomas should fill up the stat sheet for Michigan in a couple years.

OT Chris Fox, 90
I really like Fox's attitude as a defensive player, and he's a good athlete, too.  I think he could be a dominant right tackle or even play left tackle in college.

QB Shane Morris, 89
Morris would be rated higher if he had some more quality receivers, but right now his receiving corps looks somewhat average.

OG Kyle Bosch, 88
Bosch looks like a left guard to me.  He seems like a smart, quality kid and could compete for playing time rather early, depending on which position Kyle Kalis plays in the class ahead of him.

CB Jourdan Lewis, 86
Lewis has similar skills to Terry Richardson, whom I also like.  But Lewis is a little bigger, so I'm giving him a slight edge.

TE Jake Butt, 82
Butt isn't the speedy freak of an athlete that seems to be dominating college and NFL football these days, but he's a very good prospect and might look especially good with Morris throwing him the ball.

LB Ben Gedeon, 82
Gedeon could probably play any of the three linebacker positions, but he's an old school player who should be pretty good wherever he plays.

OT Logan Tuley-Tillman, 79
Tuley-Tillman could be great if he adjusts to the college game, or he could struggle to acclimate himself to the finer points of the game.

WR Csont'e York, 79
York is a solid route runner with good size and decent speed.  He should be a solid player but maybe not a future superstar.

DE Taco Charlton, 75
I really like Charlton's athleticism, but he doesn't use his hands well, which concerns me because it's a bit of an instinctual thing.

CB Gareon Conley, 75

WR Jaron Dukes, 70
Dukes could be a mover if he turns out to be faster than he's looked so far.  The ceiling is a little bit low for big, possession receivers.

TE Khalid Hill, 68
The position Hill will play somewhat limits his upside.  He could be a very good role player from the U-back position.

OG David Dawson, 67
With the guards in this class and the one ahead of him, Dawson might get lost in the shuffle for a few years.


RB Wyatt Shallman, 65
Shallman looks like a running back who could put up a lot of scores in short yardage situations.  He's a high floor, low ceiling type of player.

RB Deveon Smith, 63

C Patrick Kugler, Inc.
I have yet to see film on Kugler.

Recruiting Update: March 26, 2012

Cornerback Devin Butler visited Michigan this past weekend

OFF THE BOARD
Owensboro (KY) Apollo offensive tackle Hunter Bivin committed to Notre Dame over the weekend.  The 6'7", 288 lb. lineman forged a friendship with Michigan's incoming safety Jeremy Clark, who played high school football nearby in Kentucky.  But with a full offensive line class, Michigan was no longer an option for Bivin.

Philadelphia (PA) William Penn Charter offensive tackle Mike McGlinchey committed to Notre Dame over the weekend.  The 6'9", 280-pounder also held offers from Florida, Florida State, Miami, Penn State, Pitt, and Wisconsin, among others.  Much like Bivin, Michigan has no more room for offensive linemen at this point.

New Lenox (IL) Lincoln-Way West offensive tackle Colin McGovern committed to Notre Dame over the weekend, too.  It's the chic thing to do.  McGovern also had offers from Alabama, Nebraska, Ohio State, Wisconsin, and several others.  See Bivin and McGlinchey above.

WEEKEND VISITORS
I was out of town this weekend, so I didn't get a chance to put together a list of weekend visitors on Friday.  However, there were a handful of kids in town:

• Washington (DC) Gonzaga cornerback Devin Butler
• Pickerington (OH) North tight end Jake Butt (already committed)
• Detroit (MI) Cass Tech quarterback Jayru Campbell (2015)
• Columbus (OH) Marion Franklin wide receiver Jaron Dukes (already committed)
• Detroit (MI) Cass Tech defensive back Johnny Miggins (2014)
• Detroit (MI) Cass Tech wide receiver Damon Webb (2014)

Butler is the most significant of those recruits, since he's a 6'1", 185 lb. cornerback and Michigan needs a player like him in this class.  The coaching staff struck out on some big corners in the 2012 class and are pursuing guys who are 6'0" or taller to pair with 2013 commit Jourdan Lewis.

Initial Scout 300 Released for 2013

Patrick Kugler is Michigan's top-rated 2013 recruit, according to Scout

The initial Scout 300 was released on Wednesday.  Twelve of Michigan's current commits appear on the list, with three of them nabbing 5-star ratings.  A total of 84 (or 28% of them) have been on the receiving end of Michigan offers. Here you'll find the Michigan commits (highlighted in blue) along with the rest of the 2013 offerees:

5-stars:
3. Robert Foster - WR - Pennsylvania
4. Laremy Tunsil - OT - Florida
6. Vernon Hargreaves III - CB - Florida
9. Su'a Cravens - S - California
11. Montravius Adams - DT - Georgia
13. Ty Isaac - RB - Illinois
14. Keith Ford - RB - Texas (Oklahoma)
15. Eddie Vanderdoes - DT - California
16. Jaylon Smith - LB - Indiana
17. Justin Davis - RB - California
21. Justin Manning - DT - Texas
22. Adam Breneman - TE - Pennsylvania
24. Joey Bosa - DE - Florida
25. Patrick Kugler - OG - Pennsylvania (Michigan)
26. James Quick - WR - Kentucky
27. Michael Hutchings - LB - California
28. Shane Morris - QB - Michigan (Michigan)
31. Kendall Fuller - CB - Maryland
33. Priest Willis - S - Arizona
35. Dymonte Thomas - S - Ohio (Michigan)

4-stars:
37. Jason Hatcher - DE - Kentucky
39. Darrell Daniels - WR - California
40. Elijah Daniel - DE - Indiana
42. Jake Raulerson - OT - Texas (Texas)
47. Sebastian LaRue - WR - California
49. Kyle Bosch - OT - Illinois (Michigan)
50. John Montelus - OG - Massachusetts
53. Jake Oliver - WR - Texas (Texas)
57. Ethan Pocic - OT - Illinois
58. DeVeon Smith - RB - Ohio
68. Evan Lisle - OT - Ohio (Ohio State)
73. Marquez North - WR - North Carolina
74. Cam Burrows - CB - Ohio (Ohio State)
76. Laquon Treadwell - WR - Illinois
77. Greg Webb - DT - New Jersey
79. Standish Dobard - TE - Louisiana
80. E.J. Levenberry - LB - Virginia
82. Colin McGovern - OT - Illinois
86. Alquadin Muhammad - OLB - New Jersey
90. Eli Woodard - CB - New Jersey (Ohio State)
92. Chris Hawkins - CB - California
93. Peter Kalambayi - LB - North Carolina
94. Joe Mathis - DE - California
96. Leon McQuay - S - Florida
99. Steve Elmer - OT - Michigan (Notre Dame)
102. Jonathan Allen - DE - Virginia
104. Tray Matthews - S - Georgia (Georgia)
110. Michael Hill - DT - South Carolina
111. Billy Price - DT - Ohio (Ohio State)
113. Cole Luke - CB - Arizona
116. Kyle Hicks - RB - Texas (Texas)
118. Kevin Olsen - QB - New Jersey
124. Derrick Green - RB - Virginia
131. Devon Allen - WR - Arizona
132. Larenz Bryant - LB - North Carolina
134. Henry Poggi - DT - Maryland
136. Rob Wheelwright - WR - Ohio
137. Chris Fox - OG - Colorado (Michigan)
141. Shaq Wiggins - CB - Georgia (Georgia)
142. Tashawn Bower - DE - New Jersey
144. Elijah Qualls - DT - California
147. Jake Butt - TE - Ohio (Michigan)
149. Alex Anzalone - LB - Pennsylvania
152. Dorian O'Daniel - LB - Maryland
153. Logan Tuley-Tillman - OT - Illinois (Michigan)
159. Ben Gedeon - LB - Ohio
167. Hunter Bivin - OT - Kentucky
171. Ishmael Thomas - OG - Texas (Texas A&M)
173. Ryan White - CB - Kentucky (Louisville)
177. Eldridge Massington - WR - Texas
179. Wyatt Shallman - FB - Michigan (Michigan)
182. J.J. Gustafson - OT - Texas (Texas A&M)
193. Chase Abbington - OLB - Missouri (Missouri)
202. Mike McCray - OLB - Ohio (Michigan)
204. Christian Lacouture - DT - Texas
208. Darius Latham - DT - Indiana
223. Mike McGlinchey - OT - Pennsylvania
227. Gareon Conley - CB - Ohio
230. Matt Rolin - LB - Virginia

3-stars:
251. Jourdan Lewis - CB - Michigan (Michigan)
258. James Onwualu - WR - Minnesota
264. David Dawson - OG - Michigan (Michigan)
265. Marcell Ateman - WR - Texas
267. Cameron Walker - CB - California
283. Demorea Stringfellow - WR - California
287. Jaron Dukes - WR - Ohio (Michigan)
294. Tim Harris - CB - Virginia
300. Josh Augusta - TE - Illinois

Jaron Dukes, Wolverine

Columbus (OH) Marion Franklin WR Jaron Dukes committed to Michigan on Wednesday

Columbus (OH) Marion Franklin wide receiver Jaron Dukes committed to Michigan on Wednesday.  He picked the Wolverines over offers from Illinois and Toledo.

He's a 6'5", 197 lb. wideout who claims a 4.6 forty.  As a junior in 2011, he caught 36 passes for 670 yards (18.6 yards per catch) and 7 touchdowns.

Ratings:
ESPN: Unranked WR
Rivals: Unranked WR
Scout: Unranked WR
247 Sports: 3-star WR, 87 grade

Shortly after Dukes was offered, he admitted that Michigan was his prohibitive favorite.  He grew up as a Michigan fan despite living in Columbus.  Raise your hand if you're surprised he committed.

Put your hand down, smartass.

Considering Dukes's highlight film consists of about four clips, there's not a whole lot to go on.  He's 6'5", which is tall.  The 6'3" Jehu Chesson recently said the coaches want him playing at 210-215 lbs., so I wouldn't be surprised to see Dukes up around 230 or 235 lbs. eventually.  That means Dukes will likely be a jump ball nightmare for opposing teams.

Dukes lists a 4.6 forty, which is probably a fib.  He's not very fast.  First of all, you can see it on film.  Secondly, if you're 6'5", 200 lbs., and actually fast, then your offer list consists of more teams than Illinois and Toledo.

I've said before that Dukes reminds me a bit of Ernest Wilford, the former Virginia Tech and Jacksonville Jaguars receiver.  He's not going to outrun anyone unless they try to tackle him and bounce harmlessly to the turf.  It's easy to outrun people when they're lying on the ground.  But hey, those kinds of skills turned into some big-time receptions for Junior Hemingway because Denard Robinson would just chuck the ball downfield and the 6'1", 225-ish Hemingway would outmuscle smaller and weaker defensive backs.  Dukes probably isn't in danger of becoming the next Calvin Johnson, but if Michigan gets some red zone touchdowns or Hail Mary receptions out of him, it will be worth it.

Michigan is expected to take two or three wide receivers in the 2013 class.  This takes care of the jump ball/possession role.  Now it would be nice to see Michigan put the full court press on a guy who can stretch the field with his speed and/or catch some underneath passes and run after the catch.

This is Michigan's first ever recruit out of Marion Franklin High School.

Weekend Visitors: February 10-12, 2012

Laquon Treadwell will be in Ann Arbor this weekend
(image via 247 Sports)

Four juniors and one sophomore prospect are expected to visit Michigan this weekend:

St. Louis (MO) DeSmet OT Andy Bauer (2014)
Bauer is only a sophomore in high school, but he was named a sophomore All-American and First Team All-Missouri.  He's 6'5" and 290 lbs., benches 315 lbs., and reports a 500 lb. squat.  Those are amazing numbers for a high school sophomore.  Bauer has not yet been offered by the Wolverines, but a verbal offer might be forthcoming.  Class of 2012 wide receiver Durron Neal, who was offered by Michigan but chose Oklahoma, also goes to DeSmet.


Columbus (OH) Marion Franklin WR Jaron Dukes
Despite growing up in the heart of Buckeye country, Dukes grew up as a Michigan fan.  The 6'4", 195 lb. Dukes received a Michigan offer last week and has been rumored to be a candidate to make an early commitment to the Wolverines.

Parker (CO) Ponderosa OT Chris Fox
Much like Dukes (except without living in such a horrible state), Fox grew up as a Michigan fan.  He's 6'6", 297 lbs. and really impressed at several camps last summer.  Colorado, Iowa, Ohio State, and Purdue have also offered Fox.  He looks like a guard or perhaps a right tackle to me, but either way, 247 Sports rates him the #44 player nationally and Rivals rates him at #46.


Novi (MI) Catholic Central RB Wyatt Shallman
Shallman's recruitment has been well documented here (a scouting report, for example).  Most experts believe he'll be a Wolverine sooner or later.  Meanwhile, Shallman was recently named the 160th-best prospect in the country, according to Rivals.

Crete (IL) Crete-Monee WR Laquon Treadwell
Treadwell is a 6'3", 183 lb. wideout whose teammate is former Michigan commit Anthony Standifer.  Treadwell had 75 catches for 1,400 yards and 18 touchdowns as a junior, and Michigan was the first school to offer him.  He has since earned offers from Ohio State and USC, along with several others.

Peoria (IL) Manual OT Logan Tuley-Tillman
Tuley-Tillman is a 6'7", 280 lb. offensive tackle who mentioned several times that Michigan was a childhood favorite.  He has since been offered by Alabama (and many others) and recently stated that the Wolverines and Crimson Tide are neck-and-neck on top of his offer list.  He's the #84 player overall to 247 Sports and #109 overall to Rivals.

Recruiting Update: February 6, 2012

Columbus (OH) Marion Franklin wide receiver Jaron Dukes
(image via Columbus Dispatch)

Because this post was getting so long, here you'll find mostly class of 2013 developments.  All of last week's developments with class of 2012 kids, National Signing Day, etc. are encapsulated in Friday's post.

ADDED TO THE BOARD (2012, 2013)
Owensboro (KY) Apollo defensive tackle Hunter Bivin, a 2013 prospect, was offered by Michigan late last week.  He's a 6'7", 288 lb. kid with offers from Auburn, Indiana, Kentucky, Miami, Mississippi State, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Tennessee, and Wisconsin, among others.  Bivin has developed a bit of a connection with his former high school opponent Jeremy Clark, the 2012 safety commit.  I'm afraid this one might go in Ohio State's direction.

Avon (IN) Avon defensive end Elijah Daniel, a 2013 prospect, grabbed an offer from Michigan last week.  He's a 6'4", 253 lb. strongside end with offers from Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan State, Minnesota, Ohio State, Oklahoma, and Tennessee, among others.  His older brother Armonze is a linebacker at Marshall, but Elijah is likely to attend a bigger program.

Sicklerville (NJ) Timber Creek defensive end Dajuan Drennon, a 2013 prospect, received a Michigan offer last week.  He's a 6'4", 227 lb. kid with offers from Florida State, Iowa, Penn State, and Washington, along with several others.

Columbus (OH) Marion Franklin wide receiver Jaron Dukes, a 2013 prospect, got an offer from Michigan last week.  He's 6'3", 195 lbs. and also holds an offer from Toledo.  His favorite team as a kid was Michigan, despite living in the Buckeyes' home city.

Cincinnati (OH) Moeller linebacker Shane Jones, a 2013 prospect, was offered by Michigan.  He's 6'1", 220 lbs. and looks like a future weakside linebacker or perhaps a MIKE.  As a junior he had 89 tackles, 2 sacks, and 1 interception.  Jones also has offers from Cincinnati and Indiana.

Wexford (PA) North Allegheny offensive guard Patrick Kugler, a 2013 prospect, was offered by Michigan this past week.  He's a 6'5", 265-pounder with offers from Florida State, Miami, Michigan State, Penn State, Stanford, Tennessee, and many others.

Bloomfield (NJ) Bloomfield offensive tackle Marcell Lazard, a 2013 prospect, received a Michigan offer.  He's a 6'6", 293 lb. lineman with offers from Miami, Virginia, West Virginia, and others.

Detroit (MI) Cass Tech cornerback Jourdan Lewis, a 2013 prospect, was offered by Michigan on Wednesday.  Lewis is 5'11" and 170 lbs., skinny like seemingly every Cass Tech cornerback.  Michigan seems to be the early favorite, and they have obviously developed a pipeline to Cass Tech (Terry Richardson, Royce Jenkins-Stone, William Campbell, Thomas Gordon, etc.).  His only other offer is from Toledo.

Columbus (OH) Bishop Hartley tight end Jacob Matuska, a 2013 prospect, received a Michigan offer on Wednesday.  He's a 6'5", 240-pounder with offers from Cincinnati, Illinois, North Carolina State, and Toledo.

Trotwood (OH) Trotwood-Madison linebacker Mike McCray, a 2013 prospect, received an offer from Michigan.  He's a 6'4", 230 lb. kid who looks like a future SAM linebacker.  He has also been offered by Boston College, Illinois, Kentucky, Purdue, Syracuse, Tennessee, and a few others.

NewLenox (IL) Lincoln-Way West offensive tackle Colin McGovern, a 2013 prospect, was offered by Michigan last Thursday.  McGovern is a lanky 6'7", 280 lb. kid with offers from Illinois, Northwestern, Tennessee, and Wisconsin

Ashburn (VA) Briar Woods linebacker Matt Rolin, a 2013 prospect, got an offer last week.  He's a 6'4", 205-pounder who would likely be pegged to play SAM linebacker.  He also holds offers from Tennessee, Virginia Tech, and Washington, among others.

Sicklerville (NJ) Timber Creek defensive tackle Greg Webb, a 2013 prospect, was offered during Michigan's blitz of New Jersey this past week.  He's a 6'2", 290 lb. future nose tackle with a 335 lb. bench and a 635 lb. squat, both of which are pretty impressive for a kid who's just a high school junior.

Columbus (OH) Walnut Ridge wide receiver Rob Wheelwright, a 2013 prospect, got an offer from Michigan, too.  Wheelwright is 6'1", 174 lbs. and is the younger brother of Ernie Wheelwright, who played wide receiver for the Minnesota Gophers and now plays for the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the CFL.  Rob had 12 touchdowns as a junior, and he holds offers from Boston College, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Nebraska, Syracuse, and Wisconsin.

Louisville (KY) Trinity cornerback Ryan White, a 2013 prospect, picked up an offer from Michigan last week.  The 5'10", 178-pounder is the teammate of fellow Michigan targets James Quick and Jason Hatcher, a wide receiver and defensive end, respectively.  While not quite as coveted as those teammates, White has also been offered by Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, and Louisville.

Dallas (TX) Bishop Dunne offensive guard Ishmael Wilson, a 2013 prospect, was offered by Michigan this past weekend.  He's a 6'5", 275 lb. kid with offers from Cal, Nebraska, and Vanderbilt.

Voorhees (NJ) Eastern cornerback Eli Woodard picked up an offer for the class of 2013.  He's a 6'1", 185 lb. kid whose skills indicate that he could stay at cornerback, despite being fairly tall for a corner.  He's a big-time recruit with offers from Alabama, Cal, Miami, Nebraska, Notre Dame, and Wisconsin, among others.  The early returns suggest he's leaning toward Ohio State.

OFF THE BOARD
Chicago (IL) Simeon offensive tackle Jordan Diamond committed to Auburn on Friday night.  Diamond was considered to be a heavy Michigan lean last winter and spring, largely because his former high school teammate Chris Bryant is an offensive guard for the Wolverines.  But the longer Diamond's recruitment dragged out, the more murky it looked.  It became pretty apparent at some point that this would not go Michigan's way . . . it just wasn't clear whether he would pick Arkansas or Auburn.

Celina (TX) Celina offensive tackle Jake Raulerson, a 2013 prospect, committed to Texas.  While Michigan was recruiting him for offensive line, many other schools were recruiting him to play defensive end.  That might not be a bad place for a 6'4", 250-pounder.

Toledo (OH) Central Catholic safety Jayme Thompson, a 2013 prospect, committed to West Virginia.  It's somewhat unclear whether Thompson actually received an offer from the Wolverines.  He reported to Michigan blog Tremendous  that he did indeed receive a verbal offer from the Wolverines, but the other recruiting sites have refuted that notion.  Either way, he's currently inclined to become a Mountaineer, but he said early on that he would be a Wolverine if Michigan offered, so this one might be something to watch between now and signing day.