Michigan Football: 3 2021 signees who can start immediately

Michigan football signed an impressive recruiting class in 2021 and here are three recruits who can start immediately next season for the Wolverines. 

Now that the 2021 recruiting class is in the books for Michigan football, it’s time to take a look at how these recruits will impact the Wolverines next season.

Obviously, not every freshman is going to come in and play right away. That’s just not how things work, especially with a program like Michigan and even though the Wolverines were just 2-4 a year ago, there is more talent than people realize on this roster.

But with six recruits signed and coming ranked in the top 200 of the 247 sports composite rankings for 2021, there will be chances to make an impact, and here are the three signees with the best chance to start for Michigan football in 2021.

Junior Colson — hybrid/outside linebacker

While many Michigan football fans will want to focus on five-star quarterback J.J. McCarthy or 247 sports five-star running back Donovan Edwards, one newcomer that doesn’t get talked about enough is outside linebacker Junior Colson.

Not only is Colson ranked 88th overall but he’s coming at a position of need for the Wolverines and should fit perfectly in the new scheme run by Mike Macdonald.

My best guess is that Macdonald uses the 4-3 under defense, which is essentially a front where you have three defensive lineman, three linebackers and a hybrid guy.

As far as the hybrid pass-rushing type, Colson could be the best option on the roster next season. He’s 6-foot-2, 228 pounds and is a former wide receiver. He can cover and was credited with 14 sacks in 2019. He can blitz, cover and rush. He’s also a dynamic athlete.

That’s why it wouldn’t be at all surprising if he was starting in game one next season, especially since he’s already enrolled.