Michigan Football: Cameron McGrone is making a name for himself

Michigan football’s redshirt freshman linebacker is making a name for himself in a field of up-and-coming stars.

Cameron McGrone – the 6-foot-1-inch, 228 pound sophomore from Indiana –  has been making an impression on the Michigan football coaches since his arrival last year.

“He’s a young kid – eager, eager to learn,” former Wolverine linebackers coach Al Washington said. “Eager to assume the role (of) being a big time backer in our defense. Very impressed with his approach and his effort on a consistent basis. Because it’s a lot – being a freshman coming into a new environment, and then being a leader of 10 guys when you’re not sure exactly what you’re doing all the way yet. There’s a lot of effort that goes into that, and he’s approached it the right way.”

https://twitter.com/McGrone_Strong/status/1053764164848676865

As a senior at Lawrence Central High School, McGrone registered 84 tackles and four sacks in seven games and yet his off-the-field dedication is even more impressive.

Off-the-field efforts

His parents, Lynn and David, shared a story of Cam’s breathtaking empathy.

"Off the field, Cameron is thoughtful, compassionate, and kind. His relationship with his little brother is the best example we could think of to describe Cameron’s character and demeanor when he’s not playing football. Aaron, our 8-year old son, is on the Autism Spectrum. Until recently, Aaron did not attend Cameron’s sporting events due to the anxiety many kids on the spectrum experience when they’re over-stimulated by large crowds and loud noises. Although Cameron was disappointed, he understood Aaron’s situation and made it a priority to help us help him overcome his fear and anxiety. He allowed his little brother to tag along with him and his friends to smaller sporting events where he would introduce him to buzzer sounds, starting pistol bangs, and loud music, which ultimately prepared him to join our entire family in the stadium at Lawrence Central High School during Cameron’s senior season. We couldn’t have done it without Cameron’s help!."

The No. 1 player from Indiana last year is also as intelligent as he is athletic. He was the recipient of Academic All-State honors and his high school coach reported Cam’s GPA around 3.8.

Both of McGrone’s qualities – intelligence and athleticism – were recognized by Michigan football’s defensive coordinator.

“Cam McGrone is fast,” Don Brown said of the sophomore. “Now I’m finally saying Cam McGrone is fast, and that means his brain is on, knows where he’s got to go, what to do. Now his ability to play fast is being met with concept understanding.”

Playing time

McGone faces some stiff competition at linebacker. Josh Ross, Devin Gil and Khaleke Hudson are expected to start at their respective positions. Cam will likely be competing with Jordan Glasgow and Jordan Anthony for backup duties but the backup spot might get plenty of time on the field in 2019.

With the offense moving to a much faster-paced scheme, the defense will see the field more and therefore they would be switching personnel consistently to give the starters a breather.

Having McGrone in the mix with his speed and hard hitting abilities could make the difference this season and for years to come for the D. Or who knows, he could end up at running back or on the offensive line with the way Michigan football has been moving around their talent. Either way, McGrone is a special talent on and off the field.