Michigan Football: What You Need to Know About Wolverines' TE Depth

Tight end is, without a doubt, one of the biggest concerns for this Michigan team in 2012. Kevin Koger, who manned the position for so long, won't be there for the first time since 2007. So who will take his place?

There are a number of candidates, but none have really ever separated themselves. Here's a look at five important facts surrounding the tight end group this fall.

Brandon Moore Is Definitely the Favorite to Win the Job

This is the most important fact, so I figured I'd mention it first. Moore is the favorite by default, having done nothing to earn the position throughout his career. Playing behind Kevin Koger his entire career has had a lot to do with it, but regardless, it's now or never for Moore.

Now a senior, it would really help this unit if he could step up and, at least, have a decent year. Fans aren't expecting a whole lot out of him, but fortunately, he doesn't need to be great. He just needs to be good enough to occupy the starting job until one of the young tight ends likely claims it next year.

Both Freshmen Will Likely See the Field

Michigan is bringing in two solid freshman tight ends, and we'll probably see both of them. Heck, I wouldn't be shocked if one of them ends up starting. Opinions seem to be split on who is better, Funchess or Williams. But regardless, we'll likely see both.

That just might be a good thing, though, if they are truly that even. It will provide stiff competition not only this year, but throughout the rest of their careers.

Many Position Changes Have Occurred to Accomodate the Tight Ends

There have been a number of players that have switched from their original positions to play tight end. Whether it was to get more help at the position or just because tight end was more of a natural fit for these guys, we'll still see a few new faces.

Chris Eddins had been a defensive end, but switched to the offensive side of the ball to play tight end. I doubt he'll see the field, but I wouldn't be shocked if he does.

The exact same can be said for Jordan Paskorz; he had been a defensive end, but is now a tight end. Again, I don't think he'll see much time, but wouldn't be completely shocked if he does.

There is also a player who might make the transition from tight end to receiver: Ricardo Miller. However, nothing has been confirmed, so the speculation will probably continue up until fall practice.

Watch out for a Darkhorse Candidate to Potentially Win the Job

I'm not saying this will happen, but watch out for Mike Kwiatkowski this fall. I honestly wouldn't be shocked if he won the job. Again, I'm not predicting it, but he is a guy to watch out for.

Kwiatkowski is a redshirt senior, and seemed to have a lot of hype surrounding him in the spring. Whether it can translate to the field or not remains to be seen.

Help Is on the Way

We've already mentioned that Devin Funchess and A.J. Williams will be arriving this fall, but the future is brighter even further down the road.

The 2013 class has two tight ends committed already, with one of them being Jake Butt. Rivals.com has Butt listed as the fifth-best tight end in the country, and one of the 120 best players in the country.

Khalid Hill isn't as highly rated, but seems like a kid that is very versatile and could be moved around some.

Even though the unit looks like a mess here in 2012 (because it is), it definitely won't stay that way for long.