Michigan Football: 5 Incoming Freshmen Who Might Make an Impact

Michigan is bringing in a great group of freshmen, but how many of them can we really expect to have an impact?

Some of them are just too good to keep off the field, and even though they may not start, there are a few guys who will definitely play a role.

Here's a look at the five true freshmen most likely to have an impact this fall.

5. Kyle Kalis

Some may think it is odd to have Kyle Kalis this low. However, barring injury, Kalis should be a backup the entire year. I just don't understand why the "analysts" out there act like Michigan's offensive line will be a huge problem.

Yes, depth is a concern, but the starters are just fine. I feel great about four of the five starters, and it's not like whoever starts at left guard will be a huge liability.

Kalis will definitely see time, but again, as long as no starters get hurt, the coaches should be able to ease him into action instead of throwing him in right away.

4. Amara Darboh

It is hard to judge how much of an impact Michigan's freshmen receivers will have. They certainly need help at the position, but it's not like Amara Darboh or Jehu Chesson will necessarily just step in and have an immediate impact.

Will they have some impact? Yes, I think so, but I definitely don't think either will start, or even come close.

I just hope that a guy like Darboh can provide some production and hopefully show glimpses of being a future playmaking threat.

3. A.J. Williams

Tight end is probably where a Michigan freshman will have the best chance of playing time. Like receiver, there are two freshmen who could see time at tight end—Williams and Funchess—but I went with Williams on this one.

Is there a chance that he could start from Day 1? Absolutely. I don't think that he will, but I wouldn't be shocked if it happened.

Either way, I think he will see plenty of playing time this fall. Heck, I wouldn't be surprised if his fellow freshman at the position, Funchess, saw time as well.

Those two should bring depth to the position and provide stiff competition for the future.

2. Ondre Pipkins

A lot of people would have Pipkins No. 1, especially considering the lack of depth at defensive tackle. I do think Pipkins will play a role this fall, but I definitely don't think he'll start.

How much of an impact can a lineman like Pipkins really make as a true freshman?

He is an elite talent, but I think it also depends on how the guys in front of him play. Who knows what the team will get out of Will Campbell, and even Jibreel Black for that matter? If either of those two struggle, we may see Pipkins much more than expected.

If those two excel, then Pipkins can hopefully be eased into action.

1. Joe Bolden

The more I hear about this kid, the more I think he will have a pretty big impact this fall. Honestly, I wouldn't be shocked if he starts.

With that being said, I don't think he will to start the year, but again, it wouldn't shock me if he is in by midseason.

Bolden just seems way too talented to keep off the field. If he isn't starting by year's end, he certainly will be soon after. I think he will go on to become the school's next great linebacker—resembling the great Michigan linebackers of old.