Mel Kiper Jr. assesses Michigan's 2021 NFL Draft prospects

This is the time of year when NFL Draft analysts work extremely hard. In less than two months, the premier event of the offseason will be underway.

On Monday, ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. talked about projections for the upcoming 2021 NFL Draft. He provided some assessment on the status of Michigan’s prospects for this year’s event, and it sounds like the Wolverines could have a few former stars have their names called at some point during the draft.

Per Angelique Chengelis of The Detroit News, Kiper is a fan of defensive lineman Kwity Paye and the versatility he brings to the field. Paye has the potential to be the first Wolverine off the board in this year’s draft.

Kiper also believes offensive lineman Jalen Mayfield is a potential first-round selection, but currently has him in the second round.

Mel Kiper on ESPN call now: Kwity Paye late first. “He should test tremendously well” and likes his versatility. Said he almost projected Jalen Mayfield late first but has him second. Nico Collins second-third round projection and Ambry Thomas 4th

— angelique (@chengelis) March 1, 2021

“Ben Mason is the best pure fullback” in the Draft — Mel Kiper from ESPN call

— angelique (@chengelis) March 1, 2021

Wide receiver Nico Collins and defensive back Ambry Thomas also received some good reviews from the ESPN analyst. Kiper believes Collins has jumped into second- to third-round territory, while Thomas is listed as a likely fourth-rounder.

When asked about Ben Mason, Kiper called him “the best pure fullback” in the 2021 NFL Draft.

This year, there will be no official NFL Scouting Combine, which means players won’t have as many chances to improve their stock. However, Michigan is hosting its pro day on March 26, and could prove to be beneficial for some of the prospects mentioned.

It’ll be something to keep an eye on later this month.