Michigan Football Players Named to The Athletic’s “Freaks” List
Four standout Michigan football players have been recognized on The Athletic’s prestigious annual “Freaks” list, which highlights the most exceptional athletes in college football. This year, defensive tackle Kenneth Grant, quarterback Alex Orji, cornerback Will Johnson, and tight end Marlin Klein made the cut, showcasing Michigan’s continued dominance in athletic prowess.
| Player | Position | Rank | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kenneth Grant | Defensive Tackle | 3rd | 18.75 mph top speed, 29-inch vertical jump, 115-pound dumbbell press (34 reps) |
| Alex Orji | Quarterback | 13th | 2.46-second reactive plyo stairs test, 41-inch vertical jump, 4.06-second pro agility shuttle time |
| Will Johnson | Cornerback | 28th | 2.27-second reactive plyo stairs test, 6.57-second 3-cone drill, 4.05-second 20-yard shuttle time |
| Marlin Klein | Tight End | 90th | 21.75 mph top speed, 9-7 broad jump, known for exceptional physical attributes |
Kenneth Grant: A Dominant Force
Kenneth Grant, ranked 3rd on the list, continues Michigan’s impressive streak of top-10 “freaks,” following previous standout players like Kwity Paye, Aidan Hutchinson, Mazi Smith, and Kris Jenkins. Grant, praised by head coach Jim Harbaugh as an “absolute gift from the football gods,” made headlines with a standout 2023 season. His top speed of 18.75 mph and explosive strength were showcased through a 29-inch vertical jump and impressive dumbbell press stats.
Feldman highlights Grant’s exceptional performance in the reactive plyo stairs test and his rigorous offseason training, including a Turkish get-up with a 150-pound dumbbell. Justin Tress, Michigan’s director of strength and conditioning, describes Grant’s movements as “a work of art,” emphasizing his explosive training style.
Alex Orji: A Quarterback with Elite Athleticism
Quarterback Alex Orji, ranked 13th, is noted for his remarkable athleticism, which surpasses key performance indicators for Michigan’s Big Skill group. Orji’s standout numbers include a 2.46-second time in the reactive plyo stairs test, a 41-inch vertical jump, and a 4.06-second pro agility shuttle time. These metrics not only highlight his physical capabilities but also his potential as a leading candidate for Michigan’s starting quarterback position in 2024.
Feldman’s analysis is supported by a video showcasing Orji’s balance and agility, reinforcing his status as one of the most athletic quarterbacks in college football.
Will Johnson: A Top Cornerback Prospect
Will Johnson, ranked 28th, is a former five-star recruit and a returning All-American. His performance in various drills, including a 2.27-second time in the reactive plyo stairs test and a 6.57-second 3-cone drill, positions him as a top prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft. Feldman notes Johnson’s agility and speed, underscoring his potential to excel at the next level.
Marlin Klein: A Rising Tight End Star
Tight end Marlin Klein, ranked 90th, is gaining attention as one of Michigan’s most athletic tight ends. Despite having only one career catch, Klein’s impressive physical attributes, such as a top speed of 21.75 mph and a 9-7 broad jump, make him a player to watch. Colston Loveland, a well-known name in the tight end position, has praised Klein’s physical prowess, suggesting that Klein’s performance this season could be significant.
Conclusion
The inclusion of Kenneth Grant, Alex Orji, Will Johnson, and Marlin Klein on The Athletic’s “Freaks” list highlights Michigan football’s ongoing commitment to recruiting and developing exceptional athletic talent. Each player’s unique attributes and recent performances underscore their potential impact on the 2024 season. As the Wolverines prepare for their opener against Fresno State on August 31, these “freaks” are set to play a crucial role in Michigan’s football success.
