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Published on December 12, 2024
Michigan Standouts Will Johnson and Mason Graham Eye NFL Dreams as They Declare for DraftSource: Bobak Ha'Eri, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

After three solid seasons at the University of Michigan, All-American cornerback Will Johnson is setting his sights on the big leagues. In a move that's caused a ripple through the college football world, Johnson took to Instagram to announce his intention to enter the NFL Draft, waving farewell to another year of eligibility and, presumably, to study hall. According to WXYZ, the standout defensive player, who started four high school seasons at Grosse Pointe South High School and came to Michigan as a five-star recruit, has firmly placed himself in the queue for a top-ten pick, despite a limited showing this season due to a nagging toe injury.

Not to swiftly pivot to another rising star, but Johnson isn't the only Wolverine clawing his way to the draft. Defensive tackle Mason Graham has also decided to forgo his senior season in favor of a spot in the pro ranks, and both are expected to be snatched up in the first round, as reported by AP News. While Johnson's season was cut short to just six appearances, Graham showed up in all 12 games, contributing to Michigan's defense with 3 1/2 sacks and seven tackles for loss.

Despite injuries that sidelined him for significant stretches, Johnson leaves a record that speaks to his remarkable talent and potential at the next level. His stats rack up to 68 tackles, nine interceptions, and well, let's not forget the three touchdowns off of those interceptions. The 6-foot-2, 202-pound cornerback has all the traits expected of a first-round draft pick - size, skill, and the kind of statistical follow-through that gets professional teams to take notice, notes MLive. "Thank you to Coach Harbaugh for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to play at Michigan. It was a true honor," Johnson wrote, acknowledging the role his coaches and the Michigan community played in his journey so far.