Michigan football received one boost when Blake Corum opted to return to Ann Arbor in 2023, but lost two players to the NFL draft, tight end Luke Schoonmaker and edge rusher Mike Morris. Another is apparently NFL-bound, as well, which was to be expected.

According to ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter, the tip of the spear is on his way out of Ann Arbor. Senior defensive tackle Mazi Smith is apparently heading to the NFL draft. With Smith’s departure, the Wolverines get a bit thinner in the defensive interior, but they have several up-and-coming players, such as Mason Graham, Rayshaun Benny and Kenneth Grant ready to step in.

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A member of the 2019 recruiting class, Smith came into prominence in 2021 when he became a starter. He was honored as a team captain this past year, but faced scrutiny when he was charged with a felony for carrying a firearm on his person without a permit while driving.

In 2022, Smith had 48 tackles, 2.5 for loss and 0.5 sacks to go along with one QB hurry and a forced fumble.

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Story originally appeared on Wolverines Wire