TJ Wheatley Dishes on Tight End Group, His Thoughts on the QB Battle

One of Michigan football’s best players, tight end Jake Butt, is considered one of the team’s stars, but the depth behind him is a positive for the Wolverines heading into the 2016 football season.

Ian Bunting is receiving a lot of praise as the team’s number-two tight end, but redshirt freshman TJ Wheatley could be a sleeper on an offense that likes to spread the ball around and get multiple options involved.

Maize n Brew caught up with Wheatley at Michigan football’s media day on Sunday afternoon.

“I love our room,” Wheatley said. “We’re all close. Jake Butt helps us out every day, who’s probably the number-one tight end to go in the draft this year. You can’t get that everywhere, but everyone’s talented.

“Put me, Gentry, Sean (McKeon), even the new guys. It’s pretty cool. It’s a unique group that can contribute and do a lot this year.”

The Wolverines feature quite a bit of star power on both sides of the ball, but to win big like many are expecting this season, contributions from everyone will be needed. Wheatley is ready to do whatever he is called upon for.

“Honestly, I’m just trying to get on the stage this year and do my part and contribute to the team. Whatever they need me to do I’ll do it,” he said.

“We’re excited. We’ve been waiting for this season for awhile now. I’m happy to be back this year and I’m looking forward to it.”

Like many, he has the quarterback battle between John O’Korn and Wilton Speight circled as the list of things he is ready to watch during camp.

“They’re both great,” he said. “This battle…I’m excited to see this battle in camp. Both of those dudes have been grinding all summer from 7-on-7’s to doing one-on-one passing with them.

“It’s going to be exciting. It’s going to be interesting. I don’t know how coach is going to pick which one starts this year.”

Michigan’s fall camp begins on Monday.