Michigan football has produced at least one first-round pick each year since 2019.
But that streak is expected to end Thursday night, when the 2026 NFL Draft begins. None of the Wolverines’ top prospects are projected to come off the board Day 1.
No player from any of the other college programs in the state of Michigan is expected to be one of the top 32 choices, either. But eventually, a Wolverine will be selected. A couple of Spartans, a Bronco and a Chippewa may also be among the 257 draft hopefuls taken before the weekend ends.
Here’s a list of players from Michigan colleges and universities who could hear their names called over the next three days in the NFL draft:
[ NFL mock draft predictions 4.0: Every pick in Round 1 ]
Buzz: A talented pass rusher and team captain, Moore was one of the leaders of the Wolverines’ defense last season. He collected a team-high 10 sacks and forced two fumbles in 2025.
Buzz: Barham earned a reputation as a hard hitter who routinely made bone-rattling tackles as he floated between an off-ball linebacker position and the edge of the defensive line. Flashing speed, power and explosiveness, he produced 10 tackles for loss and four sacks in 2025.
Buzz: Klein had big shoes to fill after Mackey Award finalist Colston Loveland moved on to the NFL last April. But he didn't measure up to his esteemed predecessor. Last season, the German-born player contributed only 24 catches, 248 receiving yards and one touchdown. Still, Klein is an intriguing prospect because of his tantalizing physical traits and perceived untapped potential.
Buzz: The Oak Park alum helped anchor Michigan’s defensive line last season, logging 458 snaps – more than any other player in his position group. Although he was not seen as a disruptive force, Benny was productive. In 2025, he amassed 35 tackles and 1½ sacks.
Buzz: Rolder didn’t become a full-time starter until last season, his fourth with the Wolverines. As soon as he became a fixture in the middle, he distinguished himself as a strong run defender and sure tackler, producing a team-high 73 stops. Considered an average athlete, Rolder makes up for his physical limitations with excellent technique.
Buzz: Gulbin was in East Lansing for one season after transferring from Wake Forest. In his short time at MSU, he distinguished himself as the best performer on a deficient offensive line. In 2025, he thrived as a run blocker and was also solid in pass protection, allowing just five pressures in 11 starts.
Buzz: Tucker played at two junior colleges and one Power Four school – Houston – before coming to Western Michigan for his final college season. In Kalamazoo, Tucker raised his profile, topping the Football Bowl Subdivision in sacks (14½) and tackles for loss (21). Tucker eventually earned recognition as the MAC Defensive Player of the Year.
Buzz: Eckley was a special teams ace throughout his college career at MSU. Last season, the three-time All-Big Ten selection led the FBS with an average of 48.5 yards per punt. If there is one knock on Eckley, it's that his right leg is so strong he sometimes outkicks his coverage.
Buzz: In 2024, Zvada was one of the top kickers in the FBS. But his performance dipped last season as he missed eight of 25 field goal attempts. Zvada has historically been accurate from long distances, but has an inconsistent track record converting kicks inside 40 yards.
Buzz: After failing to deliver much impact during his first four years at CMU, Heldman made his presence felt throughout the 2025 season. He led the Chippewas with 16½ tackles for loss and 10½ sacks, demonstrating he could be a disruptive pass rusher on a consistent basis.
Buzz: Bredeson, a prototypical H-Back, is happy to play the role of lead blocker. Although he doesn’t have outstanding physical traits, he is tough and dedicated to his craft. At the next level, he could be an asset on special teams.
Contact Rainer Sabin at rsabin@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: 11 players from Michigan's college programs who could be drafted