Why Jabrill Peppers should return to Michigan in 2017

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Dec 10, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Heisman finalists Oklahoma wide receiver Dede Westbrook (left to right) and Clemson quarterback Deshaun Watson and Michigan linebacker Jabrill Peppers and Oklahoma quarterback Baker Mayfield and Louisville quarterback Lamar Jackson pose with the Heisman trophy during a press conference at the New York Marriott Marquis before the 2016 Heisman Trophy awards ceremony. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

Another Chance at a Heisman Trophy

The fact that Peppers was even named a Heisman Trophy finalist this season is a rare accomplishment. Few defensive players their named called to go to New York, but his four offensive touchdowns, defensive contributions and plenty of big plays on special teams helped him build a strong case.

Louisville Cardinals quarterback Lamar Jackson wound up winning the Heisman Trophy. Although he’ll be back next year for Louisville, I’m not so sure he’ll be able to put up the numbers that he did this year. Teams started to contain Jackson by the end of the year, with the Cardinals QB scoring just six total TDs in his last four games.

There are plenty of talented players in college football, but Peppers would be a legitimate front-runner if he returned to Michigan. He took snaps on offense as a running back and wide receiver while returning kicks and punts. Maybe he could convince Harbaugh to let him take even more offensive snaps next season.

Any time the ball is in Peppers’ hands, he’s a threat to take it to the house. Even if he doesn’t get more offensive snaps, a handful of return or defensive touchdowns could be enough for him to make a Woodson-esque case for the Heisman.

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