Michigan Football: The 5 Most Underappreciated Players in School History

Countless great players have played at Michigan throughout the years. Some are well-known and respected, while others may not necessarily always get the attention they deserve.

Some great players who are well-known do appear on this list, but it's because their greatness isn't necessarily recognized enough.

The list of underrated players can be endless, but here's a look at who I think are the five most. Let the debating begin.

5. Thom Darden (S)

Thom Darden played at Michigan from 1969 to 1971.

Not only did he receive All-Big Ten honors in 1970, but he also received All-American honors as well in 1971.

Darden also returned punts for Michigan, and he still ranks near the top of the list of all-time punt return yards for the Wolverines.

Perhaps Darden's most memorable play at Michigan came in The Game of 1971, when he recorded two interceptions, the second of which caused Woody Hayes to go off in an embarrassing tirade.

4. Ron Simpkins (LB)

Ron Simpkins received All-American honors at Michigan and is considered by some to be one of the best linebackers to ever play at Michigan.

Simpkins was born right in Detroit and eventually went on to play eight seasons in the NFL.

He remained in the Midwest throughout his entire playing career, as he played for Michigan, the Packers and the Bengals.

Simpkins is currently coaching at his alma mater high school in Detroit.

3. Ron Kramer (TE)

The list of achievements for Ron Kramer while at Michigan is unbelievable. He lettered in football, basketball and track while at Michigan, and he earned a total of nine varsity letters.

Seeing as how freshmen weren't allowed to play during his time, nine was the highest number achievable.

He was also a three time All-American, two of which (1955 and 1956) were consensus.

His jersey number (No. 87) was retired once he graduated—something that has only happened to four other players in Michigan history.

His NFL career began when the Packers drafted him fourth overall in the 1957 draft. In 1978, Kramer was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.

Ron Kramer died on September 11, 2010 at age 75.

2. Mark Messner (DL)

Mark Messner played on the 1985 defense, considered by many to be the best defense in Michigan history.

Messner redshirted in 1984, but then went on to play in every game the rest of his career, earning All-American honors twice.

He is Michigan's all-time leader in tackles for loss with 70 and in sacks with 36.

Messner currently resides in Brighton, Michigan.

1. Brandon Graham (DE)

What Brandon Graham did in his career at Michigan is nothing short of amazing.

He played on some of the worst defenses in Michigan history, where he was basically the only good player and opponents could zero in on him. Yet, he still was able to put up some of the best numbers in school history.

He finished his career with 29.5 career sacks and 56 tackles for loss.

Graham went on to be drafted 13th overall by the Eagles in the 2010 draft.