Michigan running back Donovan Edwards is starting to pick up big expectations ahead of his freshman season.

Edwards is ranked No. 41 on ESPN’s list of the best newcomers in all of college football this season.

Here’s analysis on Edwards from ESPN’s Tom VanHaaren:

“The Wolverines need stability at running back and need a feature back to take over. Edwards was the No. 68 recruit overall and Michigan’s second-highest-ranked signee in the 2021 class. There is competition at running back with Hassan Haskins and Blake Corum, but everyone is starting from scratch with new running backs coach Mike Hart.”

Edwards is the No. 42 overall player and the No. 4 running back in the class of 2021, according to 247Sports Composite rankings.

Hassan Haskins was the only Michigan running back to clear 125 rushing yards last season. Haskins rushed for 375 yards and 6 touchdowns on 61 carries.

He’s one of 10 Big Ten players to be featured on the list, which includes six Ohio State players. Maryland, Wisconsin and Penn State also have a representative.

Michigan’s 2021 season opens with Western Michigan on Sept. 4.