It was a short stay in Ann Arbor for left guard Josh Priebe, who came to the Michigan Wolverines in the transfer portal following a four-year career at Northwestern. He was given a tough job, blocking on an entirely new offensive line under first-year head coach Sherrone Moore, with an offense that was inept at passing the ball.
But, Priebe left no doubt that it was worth Michigan’s time to bring him in for just one season. He played next to two different centers in what was a surprising season-long battle for the starting role and helped lead a unit that needed a veteran presence. Now, Priebe is primed for a spot in the NFL following a long college career that had him seeing plenty of action.
Combine Results: Not invited
Metrics per Michigan Roster
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 306 pounds
Age: 23
Pros
29 starts across college career
Captain at Northwestern and a leader on the Michigan offensive line
Gritty and relentless run-blocker
Really smart player, understanding blitz pickups at a high level
He’s a tough SOB, extremely competitive and constantly playing until the whistle
Cons
Will enter his rookie season at 24 years old
Not enough burst when pulling to the edge or getting to a linebacker
Needs improvement on his first step and footwork
Do Your Homework
Priebe sneaks through to the next level to secure a touchdown run:
Touchdown Michigan.
ArkSt runs a run blitz, which helps displace the LBs.
Good work by the line, especially LG Josh Priebe finding work down field.
14-3 Michigan pic.twitter.com/uP8z6gZGv7
— Due# (@JDue51) September 15, 2024
A key block and seal for Kalel Mullings on a touchdown run:
LG - Northwestern No. 68: Picks up a blitz and blocks two on one play
Conclusion
Priebe has a strong chance at being drafted, but it certainly won’t be until Day 3. Coming to Michigan is exactly what he needed to get that brand recognition and be more of a household name. Although he played on a Wolverines’ line that underperformed, Priebe was maybe Michigan’s best offensive lineman and significantly impacted the success in the run game.
However, entering his age-24 season as a rookie will be looked down on by some, and he’ll have to fight for a roster or practice squad spot to earn the chance at a backup role down the line. With his tenacity and toughness, I wouldn’t count against him.