The biggest news to hit Michigan football in several years happened earlier this offseason when Jim Harbaugh came to Ann Arbor. Expectations for the program are high. Anticipation for Harbaugh's first recruiting class is a different story.
Given just over a month to piece together a class and keep previously committed recruits, Harbaugh had a tough task.
While the class might not rank near the top, Michigan jumped into the top 50 in 247Sports' team rankings. Bringing in players such as Brian Cole and Zach Gentry instantly improves the future for the Wolverines.
Following national signing day, here's a look at the best recruits who committed to Michigan.
Brian Cole, Cornerback/Athlete
At 6'2" and 190 pounds, Cole has a projectable frame at multiple positions. With his speed and range on the field, this athlete can be an immediate difference-maker for the Wolverines.
Despite being courted by several other schools throughout the process, including Nebraska, Purdue and Ohio State, Cole stuck to his guns. The No. 5 athlete in the country spoke about his decision, via ESPN College Football:
For a team that needs to improve in several categories, Cole is a versatile player for Harbaugh's first class. As the crops slowly improve under Harbaugh, Cole has a chance to emerge as one of the best young players for the program.
Zach Gentry, Pro-Style Quarterback
Even in a typically talent-barren state such as New Mexico, Gentry is a special recruit. The 6'7", 230-pound quarterback offers another project for Harbaugh to develop in Ann Arbor.
The 4-star prospect committed to Texas last May, but Michigan flipped him just ahead of national signing day. Gentry made his commitment official Wednesday and will be wearing maize and blue throughout his college tenure.
Bruce Feldman of Fox Sports provides his analysis on Gentry:
A huge prospect with a cannon for an arm, Gentry might be the signal-caller of the future. But at this stage, it's impossible to project how much success he'll have in a tough Big Ten Conference.
Tyree Kinnel, Safety
Like Cole, Tyree Kinnel stuck with his commitment even through the coaching change. The Dayton, Ohio, native wasn't fazed by the switch and will headline Harbaugh's class defensively.
By the way he ended his announcement, it appears Kinnel always wanted to be a Wolverine. Dave Berk of Scout.com passed along a note from the end of his address:
As the only member of the secondary in the class, Kinnel has a unique opportunity to stand out in the years to come. Possessing great closing speed and ball skills, Kinnel should be another quality defensive player for a coaching staff that knows how to coach them.
All recruiting rankings and information courtesy of 247Sports.
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