Steve Clinkscale will be glad to have Ja’Den McBurrows back at some point this fall.

McBurrows played in 4 games last season, which allows him to take a redshirt. The defensive back sustained a knee injury in December which has sidelined him. McBurrows isn’t full-go, but he’s part of Clinkscale’s DB unit.
“Not 100 percent yet, but he’s back with us,” Clinkscale told reporters Thursday, per Zach Shaw of The Michigan Insider.

Clinkscale, the defensive backs coach and co-defensive coordinator, detailed how McBurrows gets involved as another coach.

“Ja’Den is like Junior Clink coaching out there. I love Ja’Den. He’s really growing up a lot for us. He’ll stand on one sideline while I stand on the other sideline, he’ll help the young guys, make sure they’re lined up correctly and know their assignment and communicate.

As far as returning from injury, McBurrows seems to be making good progress, per Clinkscale.

“He has worked out a little bit with the training staff, not with us, and I think he’s right where he needs to be. I look forward to getting him back when he’s able to practice.”

Clinkscale liked what he’s seen from McBurrows in limited game action.

“He showed me he’s physical, he’s super quick and fast,” Clinkscale said of McBurrows’ freshman season, per TMI. “Now he’s showing me that he understands the game more and the defense, and that’s going to help him gain more trust. … I know that he knows what he’s doing. I felt that way a little bit last year, I’m very reassured now that he does. So when he’s 100 percent I think he’ll definitely contribute and be a big asset for us.”