Jim Harbaugh made a preseason prediction that his Michigan football team would beat Georgia’s single-year NFL draft record of 15.
And if the invite list for this year’s NFL Scouting Combine is any indication, it just might come true.
A combine-record 18 Wolverines received invites to this year’s event in Indianapolis, the NFL announced Tuesday, a list that included some of the biggest names from college football’s national championship team.
Quarterback J.J. McCarthy, running back Blake Corum and All-American offensive lineman Zak Zinter lead the group, while Senior Bowl standout Roman Wilson, linebacker Junior Colson and defensive back Mike Sainristil also garnered invites.
The week-long event is set for Feb. 25 to March 4 in downtown Indy, where players will meet and interview with NFL teams, undergo physical exams, have themselves measured and take part in on-field workouts. For early-round prospects, it’s an opportunity to solidify their standing in the minds of NFL decision makers.
But for others, it’s a chance to prove themselves and improve their stock. Last year, Michigan cornerback DJ Turner turned in the fastest 40-yard dash time of the event, running it in 4.26 seconds to earn a spot in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft.
Six offensive linemen earned invites — a group that includes tackles LaDarius Henderson, Karsen Barnhart and Trente Jones, guard Trevor Keegan and center Drake Nugent. Shrine Bowl participants Cornelius Johnson and Josh Wallace, too.
MLive will have full coverage of the 2024 NFL combine later this month.
