Michigan Football: 3 players set for breakout seasons in 2021

Cornelius Johnson, WR

Michigan’s wide receiver room is loaded with talent, albeit much thinner than it has been in recent years. Michigan returns Ronnie Bell, Cornelius Johnson, Mike Sainristil, A.J. Henning, Roman Wilson, and brings in Cristian Dixon and Andrel Anthony.

Bell has led the team in receiving the previous two seasons and should be expected to do so again in 2021. Michigan football will need some other receivers to step up, though, and Cornelius Johnson is the most likely candidate.

Johnson had a decent season in 2020, with 16 receptions for 254 yards and 3 touchdowns. Perhaps his most memorable play from last season was his 37-yard touchdown reception from former Michigan quarterback Joe Milton against Indiana. Johnson stands at 6-foot-3 and weighs just over 200 pounds, so he has a similar frame as former Michigan receiver Nico Collins.

Johnson doesn’t exactly fit the ‘Speed in Space’ offense that Josh Gattis has been trying to implement, but the sophomore receiver can be used as a deep ball threat when needed. Because of his big frame and his long-ball ability, expect Cornelius Johnson to lead the team in 20-yard receptions this fall.

If Johnson, Hill, and Corum can all play to their full potential, and a handful of other players improve as well, Michigan Football will be much more exciting to watch than it was in 2020.