Michigan running back turning heads and breaking ankles at Senior Bowl

Jerred Johnson | Jan 30, 2025

Dec 31, 2024; Tampa, FL, USA; Michigan Wolverines helmets sit on the field before a game against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images / Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images

Donovan Edwards arrived at Michigan as a highly touted 5-star running back, carrying with him immense expectations not only to dominate on the field but to rewrite the school’s record books, win games, compete for Heisman Trophies, and ultimately leave Ann Arbor as a first-round NFL Draft pick. The spotlight was bright, and the weight of those expectations was heavy, but Edwards embraced it all. While his individual accolades may not have always aligned with those lofty predictions, his impact on the Michigan football program was undeniable. Edwards leaves behind a legacy of three Big Ten titles, a perfect 4-0 record against archrival Ohio State, and, perhaps most importantly, a National Championship—an accomplishment that solidified his place in Michigan football history.

Despite not collecting all of the individual honors many had projected for him, Donovan Edwards proved time and again that his talent was special. He became known for his ability to break free on big runs in clutch moments, providing electrifying plays that captured the hearts of Michigan fans and made him a household name across college football. In essence, his performances in crucial situations cemented him as one of the most memorable and legendary figures in the program’s storied history.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Dorm Debate Podcast (@dormdebatepodcast)

Now, as Edwards prepares for the next phase of his career, he’s continued to showcase the immense potential that made him such a highly sought-after recruit. At the Senior Bowl practices and during the 1-on-1 drills, Edwards has demonstrated flashes of the brilliance that made him a star in college. By all accounts, he’s been turning heads, breaking ankles, and leaving defenders in the dust, all while showing that his skill set has only evolved since his days at Michigan. His ability to run precise, elite routes and make difficult, contested catches has become a significant talking point among scouts.

Jan 29, 2025; Mobile, AL, USA; National team running back Donovan Edwards of Michigan (7) runs the ball during Senior Bowl practice for the National team at Hancock Whitney Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-Imagn Images / Vasha Hunt-Imagn Images

But it's not just his receiving skills that have impressed. Edwards' natural running ability, his vision, his breakaway speed, and his knack for shifting gears seamlessly at full speed have been on full display. These traits, combined with his refined receiving skills, make him a dual-threat weapon that NFL scouts simply can't ignore. As he continues to impress at the Senior Bowl, it’s clear that his stock is on the rise. For scouts looking for a versatile playmaker who can impact the game in multiple ways, Edwards is an enticing prospect with the tools to make an impact at the next level.

Jan 30, 2025; Mobile, AL, USA; National team running back Donovan Edwards of Michigan (7) runs in drills during Senior Bowl practice for the National team at Hancock Whitney Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-Imagn Images / Vasha Hunt-Imagn Images

Enjoy more Michigan Wolverines coverage on Michigan Wolverines On SI -

More Michigan News:

Michigan football 2025 signees shine in 247Sports' final '25 player rankings

Michigan football trending away from top transfer offensive line target

ESPN predicts a major season from Michigan football in 2025

For additional coverage of University of Michigan athletics:

• Subscribe to our YouTube channel: @WingedHelmetMedia
• Follow us on Facebook: @TheWingedHelmet
• Follow us on Twitter: @TWH_chris | @TrentKnoop  | @mlounsberry_SI | @JerredJohnson7