Michigan Football: Wolverines going all in on elite 2021 edge rusher

After a slew of commitments recently at linebacker, Michigan football is free to go all in on one of the top rush-linebackers in the 2021 recruiting class.

It’s sort of hard to believe that just a month or two ago, a segment of the Michigan football fanbase was really worried about the 2021 recruiting class, especially on the defensive side of the ball.

Since then, Michigan has added a number of key recruits on defense starting with three-star linebacker Tyler McLaurin and three-star safety Rod Moore, who many, myself included, feel is very underrated.

But still, some fans were hoping for more than just three-star commitments. Well, those started rolling in too.

Junior Colson, one of the country’s top outside linebackers, committed, followed by Jaydon Hood, a four-star linebacker and a four-star defensive end. Kechaun Bennett pledged to the Wolverines too this week.

Michigan is also in really solid position for four-star defensive end Quintin Somerville and four-star defensive tackle George Rooks. And that, along with all the commitments at linebacker, means Michigan football can focus a lot of resources on another linebacker/defensive end target — Dallas Turner.

Where Michigan football stands with Turner

According to the 247 sports composite rankings, Turner is 46th overall and 2nd among weak-side defensive ends in 2021. He’s 6-foot-4, 235 pounds and he plays at the same school Hood does. However, the competition will be tough as both 247 sports and Rivals have numerous projections for Georgia and Alabama each when it comes to Turner.

EJ Holland of Rivals ($) recently caught up with Turner and he reports that Michigan has been gaining some traction and that Turner likes the idea of being the next Josh Uche. The 10th-ranked player in the state of Florida would be absolutely perfect for that role. Here’s what Turner said directly to Holland about UM:

"“I like Michigan a lot. I like the way they would use me as a replacement for Josh Uche. I also like how they would move me around and drop me back into coverages, which would show my versatility. Also, I like the education, the business program and what they offer when it comes to life after football.”"

He’s athletic as all heck, which means he has versatility and under Don Brown, the Wolverines could find some really creative ways to use him. The nice thing though about a guy like Turner though, is that it doesn’t necessarily matter where you play him, he’s the kind of guy you just line up and let him attack.

Brian Jean-Mary has been an absolute stud since joining the coaching staff on the trail playing a key role especially in landing both Colson and Hood. He can concentrate his energies on trying to land Turner, which would be a major coup.

It seems like a long shot, but the odds are improving and with all the momentum the Wolverines have right now, it’s time to strike.