Linebacker is one spot where an incoming freshman can make an impact. What will Devin Bush Jr., do for Michigan football in 2016?
The Michigan football team is going to be one of the deepest in the country in 2016, so there will be little room for freshmen trying to earn their way onto the field. However, one player that could end up seeing significant time next season in linebacker Devin Bush Jr.
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Michigan football should be strong on defense at all three levels, but if there is a question mark anywhere, it might be at linebacker. The Wolverines graduated three veterans at the position in Joe Bolden, James Ross and Desmond Morgan.
I wouldn’t necessarily call any of those players irreplaceable by any means, however all three were among the Wolverines‘ top-10 tacklers. Bolden actually led the team with 83, while also registering 6.5 tackles for loss and two sacks. Morgan also had 71 tackles, two tackles for loss, a sack, an interception and three fumbles recovered.
So none of the three are superstars, but still, there is no debate that Michigan will need to replace some production. Having Jabrill Peppers playing at linebacker some will help, but he’s also needed in the secondary and will remain more of a hybrid player.
That leaves Bush Jr., as another player filled with promise, who can potentially earn some playing time at linebacker.
Here’s a look at Bush Jr. if you want to see him in action.
At 5-11 and in the 220 to 230-pound range, he has good size and although some others may run better, when it’s time to play football, Bush Jr. tends to shine.
“When you’re at a T-shirt camp and everyone’s out there trying to be track stars, he may not be your first pick,” 247sports’ director of scouting Barton Simmons said. “But as soon as the pads come on, and the lights turn on for a Friday night or Saturday afternoon, I think that’s where he shines.
“I think he’s really one of the top in-game linebackers in the southeast. He’s a kid who’s best when the pads are on.”
Bush Jr. will have work to do in order to beat out Ben Gideon and will have to compete with others such as Mike McCray, Reuben Jones, Chase Winovich, Noah Furbush and Jared Wagnler among others.
Yet, many scouts believe Bush Jr. is ready to contribute right away and after getting a taste of college football in spring practice, he will be given every chance to compete for playing time this fall.
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Regardless, Bush Jr. should see the field this season, even if its in a reserve role or on special teams, but whether it’s this year or next, he should make an impact for the Wolverines, sooner rather than later.