Michigan’s Former Top Wide Receiver Under Jim Harbaugh Impresses at the Senior Bowl

With Jim Harbaugh transitioning from the college game to the NFL, there’s considerable speculation about potential targets among his former Michigan players for the Chargers in this year’s draft. The Chargers, facing several needs to address, may see a significant reshaping of the roster under Harbaugh’s influence.

Looking ahead to the next five months, the Chargers must bolster their wide receiver corps, especially considering the makeshift lineup towards the end of the 2023 season. During this period, backup quarterback Easton Stick targeted players like Alex Erickson (who showcased promise in those plays), rookie Derius Davis, and Keelan Doss. Considering Mike Williams’ return from a torn ACL and his substantial cap hit in 2024, there’s a possibility he might not be retained.

As the Chargers contemplate their options this offseason, one intriguing possibility is Harbaugh’s standout receiver from his national title-winning season, who notably impressed on the first day of this year’s Senior Bowl.

During the all-star showcase’s opening practice, both NFL.com draft analysts Lance Zierlein and Eric Edholm identified Wilson as one of the top two receivers, alongside Georgia’s Ladd McConkey, marking them as the standout performers in their position group. They went on to commend Wilson, suggesting he could be this year’s version of Tank Dell—a mid-round wide receiver who quickly becomes a quarterback’s reliable target, similar to Dell’s connection with Texans rookie passer C.J. Stroud. Specifically, they praised Wilson for his skill in creating throwing lanes and mismatches, as well as his strong hands when making catches.

Adding to the positive reception, NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah reported receiving multiple text messages from contacts in the NFL on Tuesday, highlighting Wilson’s performance and reinforcing their initial positive assessments of the former Wolverine.

It’s noteworthy that Wilson never surpassed the 800-yard mark during his college career. Spending four years in a run-first offensive system, he only surpassed 500 yards in the 2023 season, concluding with 789 yards and leading the team’s pass-catchers with 12 touchdowns. His overall college career comprised 107 receptions for 1,707 yards and 22 total touchdowns, including two rushing scores as a junior in 2022.

Looking ahead to the next level, whether with the Chargers or another team, it’s anticipated that Wilson’s production will align closely with his collegiate stats. While not likely to be a team’s primary WR1, he has the potential to contribute effectively and complement a team’s wide receiver group. If he joins the Chargers, he could offer short-area explosiveness and adept route-running, particularly effective in various field areas and play-action situations.