Michigan Signing Day 2014: Chase Winovich Inked & Faxed

Recruitment In Summary

Winovich's recruitment was fairly interesting and somewhat surprising. Arkansas, Oregon, Pittsburgh, Ohio State, Michigan State, Florida State, Miami and many others all extended offers, which meant Michigan's staff would have to fight hard to win this battle.

Fight hard they did. Three schools emerged after Chase took a few visits and thinking things over, those being Michigan, Pittsburgh and Ohio State. The in-state Panthers looked to be neck-and-neck with Ohio State for a short stretch in his recruitment, but multiple unofficial visits to Michigan had them climbing on his list. After mulling it over, Winovich decided to become a Wolverine and never wavered.

Ratings and Attributes

Star Rating: Winovich is a low four-star recruit. His offer sheet puts to rest any ideas that he's a three-star recruit.

Strengths: Unlike many 'tweeners Michigan has landed in recent years, Winovich is a holy lock to end up at the SAM linebacker position. He's tall, coming in at 6'4", and has great arm length because of it. He has great straight-line burst and blitzing ability, giving him the potential to become an elite edge-rushing linebacker at the next level. He also shows good on-field awareness and hitting ability.

Weaknesses: Chase has plenty of work to do in the weight room; it wouldn't be unfair for the coaching staff to demand that he adds fifteen or more pounds of solid muscle. He doesn't have the strength to deal with BCS offensive lineman and will struggle to shed blocks until he obtains it. Technique can also be an issue, often approaching the line of scrimmage standing tall and not using his hands properly.

Future Impact

Years Until He Sees the Field: 1-2

Winovich has a very high ceiling to go with a very obvious temporary flaw. But look out once he's of the size and strength of a college outside linebacker. He has all of the tools to become a Jake Ryan type of SAM, terrorizing quarterbacks on long downs and throwing receivers down on reverses and bubble screens, and the position could be all his once Ryan is chasing down the Tom Bradys of the world at the next level.