With the NFL Draft just days away, the spotlight is on the Michigan Wolverines' talented class. While edge rusher Derrick Moore is the consensus first Wolverine off the board, the race to be the second name called is wide open and features some intriguing prospects.

Here are our three leading candidates to follow Moore into the professional ranks, each bringing a unique skill set to the table.

First up is linebacker/edge Jaishawn Barham, a player who has generated significant buzz since the NFL Combine. His transition from middle linebacker to edge rusher in 2025 showcased elite athletic traits that have scouts excited. At 6-foot-3 and 243 pounds, his size, speed, and positional versatility make him a fascinating Day 2 prospect. The main question is whether he's a jack-of-all-trades or can master a specific role, but his high upside could see him land anywhere from the late second to the mid-fourth round.

Next, we have defensive tackle Kenneth Grant, often evaluated just outside the top 10 at his position. Grant is praised for his reliability against the run, using impressive movement skills to shut down gaps. However, critiques about his pass-rush production and perceived limited upside have him projected as a Day 3 selection. His best-case scenario is a late Day 2 pick, which would likely require a run on defensive linemen in a deep class at the position.

The dark horse in this conversation is linebacker Hayden Rolder. Two months ago, his name wasn't in the draft conversation, but a stellar NFL Combine performance has completely changed his trajectory. Showcasing elite speed and explosiveness, Rolder has rocketed up draft boards as a classic "height-weight-speed" prospect. While his on-field production at Michigan was limited, his athletic testing was so exceptional that he's now a legitimate candidate to be the second Wolverine selected, likely in the mid-to-late rounds as a high-upside developmental player.

This trio represents the next wave of Michigan talent ready to make the leap, proving that the Wolverines' pipeline to the NFL remains as strong as ever.