Michigan Football: 3 players ranked in top 50 by PFF

In a recent ranking of the best players in college football, Pro Football Focus (PFF) ranked three Michigan Wolverines in the top 50. Here’s what Michigan football fans should expect from them for the upcoming season.

Michigan Football representing well in latest PFF college football player rankings

Blake Corum — No. 4

As a surprise to no one, running-back Blake Corum was ranked the No. 4 player in the country. He was also the highest-ranked running back — the next highest being Quinshon Judkins at No. 22.

Corum received a remarkable PFF grade of 96.2 last season, marking the highest grade achieved by a Power Five player since 2014. It’s important to mention that Corum sustained an injury before three of the most significant games of the season: Ohio State, the Big Ten Championship, and the College Football Playoff.

Last season, Corum rushed for over 1,400 yards and 18 touchdowns. In the historic season he was having, many predicted Corum to win the Heisman until his injury took him out of contention.

Blake Corum has unfinished business and is looking to have an even stronger year this upcoming season.

Will Johnson — No. 21

Sophomore cornerback Will Johnson also secured a spot in the top 25. He held the third-highest ranking among cornerbacks on the list and claimed the No. 21 overall ranking after an exceptional freshman year.

Johnson earned an impressive 91.1 grade in man coverage, leading all Power Five cornerbacks in this category. His overall grade stood at 88.2, which tied for the highest grade among Power Five true freshmen.

Johnson broke out towards the end of the season, playing his best in the final few games. In total, Johnson had three interceptions and 25 solo tackles in 14 games played. 

With the outstanding freshman year he had, Michigan fans are excited about his bright future. He could be the best cornerback in college football by the end of the 2023-2024 season.

Kris Jenkins — No. 45

Last but certainly not least, senior defensive lineman Kris Jenkins was ranked No. 45 overall. After a breakout junior season, Jenkins was sure to earn recognition by PFF.

According to PFF, his 31 run-defense stops made him tied for most in the nation among interior defensive linemen. His run-defense rate was third among all interior defensive linemen as well.

Last season, Jenkins led all Wolverine defensive linemen with 29 solo tackles and 25 assisted tackles.

All three of these Wolverines are going to make a huge impact each and every game this upcoming season. While only three names made this preseason top 50 list, expect even more Wolverines to make the rankings as the season progresses.