The Michigan Wolverines capped off a remarkable season with a perfect 15-0 record, securing the National Championship. In the aftermath of this incredible feat, a notable exodus of talent is underway, as several key players have already declared for the upcoming NFL draft. The decision to enter the professional football world was rooted in the Wolverines’ exceptional performance and the heightened draft stock of these athletes.
Coach Jim Harbaugh will now face the challenge of rebuilding his roster as his crucial players have made up their minds to transition to the NFL. Their defensive lineman, Kris Jenkins, is a recent addition to this list.
Kris Jenkins declares for NFL Draft 2024
Kris Jenkins has officially declared for the NFL Draft 2024, marking the next chapter in his promising football career. The big announcement came in an exclusive interview with ESPN, where he expressed gratitude for being part of an exceptional team and season at Michigan.
“After everything this season being blessed to be part of such an amazing team and season and being able to accomplish everything we wanted from Michigan,. For me, it’s the perfect time to move onto the next level to see what it has in store for me”, he said via Bleacher Report.
Michigan star defensive lineman Kris Jenkins tells ESPN that he’s declaring for the NFL draft. Jenkins is Mel Kiper Jr.’s No. 5 defensive tackle in this draft and projects as a Top 50 pick. pic.twitter.com/SCvzTBstnn
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) January 13, 2024
Jenkins is currently ranked as the No. 5 defensive tackle in Mel Kiper Jr.’s draft projections, positioning him as a potential Top 50 pick. Bleacher Report’s latest big board has placed him as the No. 9 defensive lineman prospect in the 2024 class.
The defensive star had contemplated entering the draft after the 2022 season but chose to return to Michigan for another season. Now, with one year of eligibility remaining, he plans to finish his degree this spring.
The young star joins a notable list of players from the Michigan championship squad who have declared for the draft. This includes linebacker Junior Colson, lineman Zak Zinter, lineman LaDarius Henderson and edge rusher Jaylen Harrell.
Kris Jenkins won CFP National Championship at Michigan
Kris Jenkins emerged as a defensive powerhouse by propelling the Wolverines to secure the CFP National Championship.Michigan finished the season with a resounding No. 5 ranking in rush defense and an impressive No. 1 standing in total defense. His contributions were significant in these achievements.
The young star’s impact was especially evident in the CFP National Championship game against the Washington Huskies. He recorded two crucial tackles, helping secure the championship title for the Wolverines.
17-3 〽️
— Due# (@JDue51) January 9, 2024
Washington goes for it on 4th down because they’re at risk of away from them
(Little did they know 17 points was enough lol)
Kris Jenkins gets enough pressure that Penix hurries a throw and misses a wide open receiver.
Blown coverage but no blood. pic.twitter.com/1rGTOlNle0
Kris Jenkins’ individual stats throughout the season speak volumes about his contribution to the Michigan squad. In 15 games, he constantly disrupted opponents’ offensive strategies by recording 37 tackles along with 2.5 sacks and 4.5 tackles for loss. A standout moment of his season came during the Week 3 clash against Bowling Green when he secured the first interception of his college career.
