One Michigan Football Player Tabbed As A First-Round 2024 NFL Draft Pick By ESPN

He came back for his senior season for a reason, and the hype surrounding him is going to continue to grow.

Kris Jenkins had an opportunity to enter the 2023 NFL draft last spring, but he opted to return to Ann Arbor for his senior season and for a chance at a national championship.

Depending on which NFL draft expert you listened to a year ago, Jenkins had the making of being a mid-round selection with a higher ceiling as the draft process went on, but Jenkins wanted one last ride with his teammates. 

Now that he is back for his senior year and back to lead the defensive line room, draft experts are starting to predict where the 300-pound defensive tackle may go next April. 

Jordan Reid with ESPN came out with his latest 2024 NFL mock draft. Reid had one Michigan player in his first round and that was none other than Jenkins. In the ESPN mock draft, Jenkins went to the Los Angeles Chargers with the 22nd pick.

Michigan DT Kris Jenkins Jr. (6-3, 300 -- as of spring). Covers a lot of ground inside and has been very quick, and a problem, off the ball for a bit.

Son of former All-Pro DT Kris Jenkins Sr. Nephew of Cullen Jenkins.@DPBrugler's got Jr. on the rise. https://t.co/vJWDW1qJ8G pic.twitter.com/THro3NScrf

— Nick Baumgardner (@nickbaumgardner) May 2, 2023

Jenkins started all 14 games at Michigan a season ago and led the defensive line with 54 tackles. He added 3.5 tackles for loss and two sacks in 2022. His performance led to an All-Big Ten honorable mention selection. 

Now that Mazi Smith is gone, Jenkins will more than likely see more double teams but should be dominant against the run. Players like Mason Graham, Rayshaun Benny, and Kenneth Grant will be freed up thanks to Jenkins. 

It's still way too early, but Jenkins has the potential to soar up draft boards as the season moves on.