Wolverine Wide Receivers to go Pro

University of Michigan Junior Wide Receivers Mario Manningham and Adrian Arrington both intend to declare for the 2008 NFL Draft. These two decisions have been in the works for a few weeks now, ever since new head coach Rich Rodriguez was hired in mid-December. To be sure, these declarations are sound ones, as Manningham and Arrington have accomplished all that they can in Ann Arbor, and a return to school by either of the two for their Senior year would likely be a frustrating experience, given the immediate installation of Rodriguez’s spread-option offense, as well as a new QB commanding the huddle.

The 6’0,” 180 lb. Manningham is the more naturally talented of the two receivers, possessing very, very good deep speed and efficient route-running ability. What impresses me most about Manningham is the competitive manner in which he goes after the football when close to making a catch. Manningham recorded numerous multi-TD games for the Wolverines, and finishes his career with 27 total TD catches. Manningham will likely time the 40-yard dash in the 4.37-4.45 range, setting himself up to be chosen anywhere from the latter part of Round 1 through the middle of Round 2.

The 6’3,” 195 lb. Arrington is the more physically-gifted of the two wideouts, though the former Iowa prep track star also showcases good speed and soft, reliable hands. After an injury-plagued 2005 season, Arrington burst onto the scene in 2006 opposite Manningham, giving QB Chad Henne an effective possession receiver and red-zone threat to throw to. Never lacking for confidence on the field, Arrington’s performance improved even more in 2007, as he virtually cut out dropped passes from his repertoire while becoming a very good (and unheralded) down-field blocker in the process. Arrington caught 8 TD’s this past season, including 2 in a 9 reception, 153 yard performance against Florida in the Capital One Bowl. The pool of WR’s in the 2008 Draft is yet to be determined given some prominent Juniors who will likely declare, but Arrington is one prospect to keep an eye on during the pre-Draft process. Good workouts and interviews could land Arrington as high as a late Round 2 Draft grade.

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