Michigan football freshman earns interesting praise from ESPN

The 2023 recruiting class was not Jim Harbaugh’s best on paper. While it hardly ranked among the nation’s top 20, the Wolverines still got some absolute studs, including Michigan football freshman running back Cole Cabana, who recently earned some very specific praise from ESPN ahead of the fall opener on September 2nd.

Michigan football freshman earns very specific praise from ESPN

Cole Cabana, the No. 1-ranked recruit in the 2023 Michigan football freshman class, is expected to be a major contributor for the Maize and Blue for years to come. While he may not see as much action soon due to the presence of other top performers, such as Donovan Edwards, Blake Corum, CJ Stokes, and more, Cabana has all the tools needed to continue Michigan’s streak of elite running backs.

According to ESPN, who recently graded 39 college football freshmen with different skill sets, this Michigan football freshman is the best pass-catching running back among the 2023 freshmen. Here is what they had to say about this new Wolverine:

“Cabana has excellent ball skills and is very polished as a pass receiver He can line up in the slot and be just as effective given his hands and route-running savvy. He’s a difficult matchup in space and will most likely be moved around the backfield in Ann Arbor. The Wolverines have one of the top backfields this season, and it will take time before we see major production from Cabana.”

A unique role for Cole Cabana in 2023?

Right now, Cole Cabana is battling an injury, which he suffered during the Wolverines’ spring period earlier this year. However, he is still expected to see some action in 2023, which is a great early sign for the Maize and Blue.

Considering that Michigan football is looking a bit thin out wide, it’s possible that Cole Cabana will come in and showcase his skills, proving ESPN right about his specific skillset this fall. If he can demonstrate his exceptional pass-catching abilities, he could be a valuable asset for the team as they chase another Big Ten title and this season’s national championship.

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