Will These 4 Michigan Wolverines Shock Everyone as Top Picks in 2027 NFL Draft?

The 2026 NFL Draft has wrapped up, marking a notable moment for the Michigan Wolverines. For the first time since 2018, Michigan did not have any players selected in the first round. Instead, the Wolverines saw six players drafted, with Derrick Moore heading to the Detroit Lions and Marlin Klein joining the Houston Texans, both in the second round. As the Wolverines look towards the next draft, several players could potentially break this one-year drought of first-round picks in the 2027 NFL Draft.

Potential First-Round Picks for 2027

Four standout Wolverines have emerged as strong candidates to be selected in the first round next year. Let's take a closer look at each of them and what makes them appealing to NFL scouts.

Senior CB Jyaire Hill

Jyaire Hill, a 6'2" cornerback, was recognized as a Big Ten Honorable Mention after his third season at Michigan. Following the 2025 NFL Draft, he was already considered a potential first-round pick, but he opted to return for his senior year. With the Wolverines' defense set to improve under new coordinator Jay Hill, Hill's draft stock has significant upside. Alongside teammates Zeke Berry and Smith Snowden, he forms part of what could be one of the nation's top cornerback units. A key factor in his potential ascent up the draft boards will be his ability to increase his interception count from one in 2025.

Senior Edge John Henry Daley

John Henry Daley, a transfer from Utah, is another player viewed as a strong candidate for a first-round selection. However, his recovery from a late-season Achilles injury will be critical. Expected to be fully cleared by June 1, Daley had a remarkable All-American season at Utah, registering 11.5 sacks and 17.5 tackles for loss. If he returns to form, his strength and agility, combined with Jay Hill's defensive schemes, could make him one of the most formidable edge rushers in college football.

Junior OT Andrew Sprague

Standing at an impressive 6'8" and weighing 315 pounds, Andrew Sprague has a strong chance of being one of the top offensive tackles in the upcoming draft. After being named All-Big Ten Honorable Mention last season, he solidified himself as a key player on the Wolverines' offensive line. With Jim Harding joining as the new offensive line coach, Michigan's line is expected to undergo significant improvements, and Sprague will be pivotal in that transformation.

Junior RB Jordan Marshall

In today’s increasingly pass-oriented league, teams often overlook running backs in the early rounds, yet elite talent can still earn a first-round selection. Jordan Marshall, despite facing challenges last season including a late injury and competition from teammate Justice Haynes, nearly rushed for 1,000 yards, finishing with 932 yards and ten touchdowns. If Marshall can maintain good health, he is poised for a breakout year. His performance will be crucial, particularly since Michigan is expected to increase its passing game, potentially impacting his touches.

As the Wolverines continue to develop their talent pool, the anticipation surrounding the 2027 NFL Draft grows. With strong performances in the upcoming season, players like Jyaire Hill, John Henry Daley, Andrew Sprague, and Jordan Marshall could very well change the narrative for Michigan’s draft prospects, aiming to restore its tradition of sending players to the NFL in the first round.