Michigan signs three more, bringing the total to 7, 5 of which are ESPN 150

Derrick Burgess - DE #19
Channelview, TX
6'4'' 279 LBS
4-Star

Speed B-, Acceleration B, Strength C+, Power Moves C+, Finesse Moves B-, Block Shedding C+

Evaluation:

Burgess is a kid who coaches will love to get their hands on and mold as he displays nice upside. Even on film the kid passes the eye test with great size. He is a big kid who has good bulk and carries it very well. At worst he looks like a kid you want getting off the bus first. Will most likely fit best as a 3-4 end, but displays some athleticism and size to play end or tackle in a 4-3. He has a solid get-off, but you would like to see him get-off the ball quicker and with consistency. He is a bit raw at this point and seems to rely on his size and raw strength. He can come out of his stance and generate power and likes to throw his forearm and when he does he can knock blockers back. Will flash the ability to shoot his hands and can push linemen aside when he does, but he needs to be more active with his hands and use his reach. He can get some initial surge, but will allow himself to get chest-to-chest with the blocker and almost at times block himself. You can see him trying to do the right thing at times as he will come across the ball and try and squeeze, but displays adequate reactive athleticism. He can move well for a big guy when he locates the ball and goes. As a pass rusher he can certainly bull his way back when he keeps his pads down and brings his hands. Flashes the quickness to throw a quick move and get penetration, but needs to keep developing his pass rush arsenal and have a plan. Burgess on raw tools can cause some problems and make some plays, but he is not as dominant as he should be. He needs to keep developing his game to squeeze the most out of his ability and be the player he is capable of. Prospect with exciting upside though.

Greg Buchanan - OG #6
Columbia, SC
6'4'' 286 LBS
4-Star

Speed C, Acceleration A, Agility B-, Impact Blocking B-, Strength B+, Run Block Footwork B, Run Block Strength B, Pass Block Footwork C, Pass Block Strength C

Buchanan plays with the athleticism and playing strength necessary to dominate defenders. Has the size for the offensive guard position at the major level of competition. Is flexible in a three point stance; comes off the ball with very good explosion, initial fit and pad level; rolls his hips with good base and leg drive. This player gets excellent movement off the line of scrimmage whether he is single or double team blocking. Shows the initial quickness to gain leverage vs. shaded defenders; can chip off the double team and get a hat on linebackers; is quick to the second level demonstrating the ability to play on his feet in space; does a nice recognizing and picking up late run blitzes. This guy is a powerful run blocker capable of knocking defenders off the ball while finishing with pancake blocks. We see the agility and balance to become a very good trap blocker; his ability to pull and get outside on screen and swing routes is a very good indication of his skill in the open field. Because his offense appears to be more run oriented his pass protection skills will need attention. However his athleticism, nimble feet and arm length will serve him well at the next level of play. His foot quickness and explosive playing strength should be assets vs. quick inside power rushers. We like the way this prospect plays the game; his tough aggressive finishing attitude allows him to dominate opponents both on and off the line of scrimmage. Because pass protection techniques will need refinement it may take a little time before Buchanan steps into a starting position however once this occurs he should have a long and productive career at the major level of competition.

James Ferguson - WR #3
Saline, MI
6'0'' 160 LBS
4-Star

Speed B-, Acceleration B-, Agility B-, Catching B-, Coute Running C, Catch In Traffic C+, Spectacular Catch C+, Jumping C+, Release B, Carrying B-, Break Tackle C+

Ferguson may be the biggest playmaker this class has to offer as an offensive skill player in the passing game. He is versatile, explosive and fast and can do it all including being a difference-maker in the return game. He has adequate size and is a sleek athlete that can run like the wind. Possesses all of the physical tools you look for in a guy that can create serious mismatches. Is an Andre DeBose/Percy Harvin type in that he can line up anywhere and you better be aware of where he is at all times. Is a fluid athlete with very good initial quickness and change-of-direction skills. He does a good job of driving defenders off and then breaking off his route. He shows good burst when the ball is in the air and does a good job of tracking down the deep ball. He is an explosive underneath route runner. He stops and starts quickly. Is able to get in and out of his breaks without gearing down much at all. He has very good, strong hands. He can pluck on the run and will adjust to the poorly thrown ball. He does a good job of extending over his head and focusing over his shoulder vertically. He has good body control and sideline awareness. He plays with excellent awareness and confidence. Is a go-to player that wants the ball and isn't afraid to work the middle of the field either. He is a homerun threat each time he handles the ball and has very good open field run instincts after the catch. The game comes pretty effortless for him and at this level his physical tools are a cut above. He is a field-position changer in the kicking game and is a tough football player which is something we really like about him. He'll take a lick, lower his shoulder as a runner and can be an intimidating player. Overall, Ferguson is a potential difference-maker as an all-around player and his versatility and instincts for the game will allow for him to be a guy that is capable of making the jump to the next level with very little learning curve.