Jim Harbaugh knows he has a very special player in Luke Schoonmaker. On Tuesday, Harbaugh went as far as to say that Schoonmaker, a 5th-year senior, could be one of the best tight ends to ever play at Michigan.

Harbaugh gushed that his tight end excels at every aspect of the position.

“Luke, I think, is one of the best tight ends in the country. Main competition would be Erick All,” Harbaugh said during his Tuesday media opportunity. “But he’s even better than I thought. He’s fast, he’s physical, dedicated blocker and also really good hands and ability to get separation, get open, increase separation, make tough catches. And team player all the way.

“He’s an outstanding player. He’ll be playing on Sundays. When it’s all said and done, one of the best tight ends to ever play here.”

The end of the quote may be the highest praise Harbaugh can offer considering the many great tight ends who have worn maize and blue. This season, Schoonmaker has 14 catches for 162 yards and a touchdown.

U-M fans hope Schoonmaker continues to produce in Erick All’s absence.