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David LongCredit: 247Sports

Michigan Football: 2016 Summer Enrollees to Watch for

David KenyonJun 15, 2016

The summer has arrived, and soon, class of 2016 recruits will funnel onto campus to begin their journey with the Michigan football program.

While a couple of freshmen are certain to contribute, a few others are worth monitoring throughout the upcoming campaign.

Jim Harbaugh and the coaching staff won't burn a redshirt for no reason. However, the Wolverines showed last year they're not afraid to insert freshmen talent.

The following six players could provide the largest impact—but only if they earn the playing time first.

Chris Evans, All-Purpose Back

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During spring practice, Mark Snyder of the Detroit Free Press noted Harbaugh called De'Veon Smith the "clear-cut starting tailback." Drake Johnson, Ty Isaac and early enrollee Kareem Walker are battling to earn the backup role that brings regular carries.

So, where does Chris Evans fit?

After amassing 2,894 rushing yards and 40 touchdowns as well as 128 receptions for 1,627 yards and 19 scores during high school, well, he'll fit wherever Michigan needs the 4-star.

Plus, there's no guarantee Smith, Johnson or Isaac is the featured player needed. They weren't last season. Evans will probably have a few opportunities to contribute, and if he capitalizes on the chances, the Wolverines might find a spot for the versatile back.

Elysee Mbem-Bosse, Linebacker

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Ben Gedeon is the undisputed starter at middle linebacker. Behind him, though, depth is practically nonexistent. Elysee Mbem-Bosse might have no choice but to be the backup.

Defensive coordinator Don Brown seems content with that.

"He plays downhill and can explode on contact and has really good coverage skills for a middle linebacker," Brown said, according to the school. "He's a no-brainer for us and fits exactly what we are trying to do within our system."

Barring injury, Mbem-Bosse won't be a featured player. But he's absolutely going to enter the game—and likely will every week.

David Long and Lavert Hill, Cornerbacks

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All-American cornerback Jourdan Lewis won't leave the field for many snaps. Channing Stribling and Jeremy Clark will be fixtures on the field.

But Michigan has a pair of 4-starsDavid Long and Lavert Hillprepared to join the lineup immediately.

"We know that the opportunity is there for us to possibly see the field quickly," Long said, per Steve Lorenz of 247Sports. "We've talked about shutting down both sides of the field together. There's a lot of potential for us to do some big things for sure."

Since each of Lewis, Stribling and Clark are seniors, it's unlikely Long or Hill redshirt. They could be starters in 2017, so any early experience will be valuable for their future.

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Ron Johnson, Defensive End

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Rashan Gary gets all the attention on the defensive line—and for good reason. But Ron Johnson is a potential nightmare, too.

"I think he can come in and have a very quick impact along that defensive front, said Bleacher Report's Michael Felder, who added Johnson is reminiscent of Dante Fowler Jr. because of his violence and aggressiveness of the edge.

Despite the depth and talent of Michigan's D-line, Johnson won't need long before factoring in as a pass-rush specialist.

Rashan Gary, Defensive End

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Although expectations are steadily rising for the No. 1 prospect in the nation, Gary won't enter a high-pressure situation.

"We've got a strong unit," Gary said, per Nick Baumgardner of MLive. "I'm happy with that. We've got a strong unit with a lot of seniors and I know when I get in there they'll teach me how to play the game, they'll be able to show me little tricks that they've learned.

Gary will play behind Chris Wormley and Taco Charlton. Last year, the duo recorded 23 combined tackles for loss and 12 sacks.

Whenever they need a break, Gary is one of the best options to replace them. And with those new tricks in store, he's certain to make a noticeable impact.


All recruiting information via 247Sports. Stats from cfbstats.com or B/R research. Quotes obtained firsthand unless otherwise noted. Follow Bleacher Report CFB Writer David Kenyon on Twitter @Kenyon19_BR.

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