NFL Draft 2017: Top Prospects from Michigan

Offensive Tackle: Erik Magnuson

Erik Magnuson will be starting for the third straight year at right tackle this fall. While he didn’t make Lance Zierleins Top 10 list, he is ranked in the top 10 for tackles in the 2017 class by CBSsports.com. Like most members of Michigan’s offensive line, Magnuson will need to improve his consistency in order to be drafted.

Interior offensive line: Mason Cole (Center), Kyle Kalis and Ben Braden

Mason Cole is Lance Zierlein’s #6 interior offensive lineman:

"Cole has the talent to man the left-tackle spot for Jim Harbaugh, but he’ll be moving inside to center, where he still figures to shine. Cole enters his junior season as a two-year starter at left tackle for the Wolverines. He has the athleticism to get to linebackers at difficult angles and he should be a factor in space as a combination blocker. He can be bull-rushed when he doesn’t maintain a wide base, but he has power as a run blocker and should be a scheme fit with all offenses in the pros"

Junior center Mason Cole is easily the best offensive lineman on Michigan’s roster. He started day one as a freshman at left tackle because of his talent level. That being said, Cole’s game is best suited on the interior of the offensive line. Center is an incredibly valuable position and there has been a recent trend by college teams to move their best lineman into that role.  As a junior, Cole may not declare for the NFL after this season, but with such a priority at the position he could make the choice to declare early.

Michigan guards Kyle Kalis (right) and Ben Braden (left), are both returning starters for the third straight year. Like Magnuson, they have experience and NFL size, yet have been too inconsistent and will need to show improvement as seniors if they hope to be drafted.

Next are the players that make up the best defensive line in college football.

Next: Defensive Line