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ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. breaks down the quality at the top of the draft.
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Wednesday, April 18

Book on OG Steve Hutchinson

Here's a rundown of what I've had to say about Michigan OG STEVE HUTCHINSON since the beginning of the college-football season.

March 21
With his versatility and dedicated approach, Hutchinson qualifies as one of the safest choices in the early portion of round one.

Feb. 28
With the talent level he displays, both in workouts and on game day, the possibility is opening up that Hutchinson could become a factor at right tackle in the NFL. I've been saying all year that Hutchinson isn't a pure guard only but brings with him the versatility and talent to move outside if that's where he's needed the most.

Feb. 7
Outstanding football player who has carried a high grade on my senior Top 25 board since early in the campaign. Even now with the underclassmen, Hutchinson still figures in the early-to-mid first round area. While an experienced LG, the former defensive lineman also has the skill level to move to RT.

Jan. 12
Former defensive lineman brought a tenacious attitude to his play on offense. Could be a right tackle in the NFL. Opened holes all year on the left side for Anthony Thomas to set the Michigan record for TDs.

Jan. 4
Hard-nosed, consistent warrior, capable of earning high honors in the NFL as either a pure guard or possibly even at a right tackle spot.

Dec. 31
The more you study Hutchinson on film, the higher you move him on the draft board. He's a fiery, hard-working, consistent performer who shows the ability to shift to a RT spot in the NFL if that is where he's needed the most. However, if he's viewed as more of a pure guard, you could see Hutchinson drop down a little further on round one than my rating indicates.

Dec. 7
Super blue-chipper at LG for the Wolverines, but in order to secure an early first-round grade, Hutchinson will likely have to prove during workouts that he has the necessary skill level to operate effectively at RT in the NFL.

Nov. 22
Has been a model of consistency throughout the campaign, receiving high grades for his exceptional play week after week. Against Ohio State, he threw the key block down the field on a screen pass that Anthony Thomas took 70 yards for a TD. Hutchinson's quickness and all-out hustle were definitely showcased on that play.

Nov. 15
In his final game at The Big House, Hutchinson again keyed a veteran Wolverine offensive line that made it possible for RBs Anthony Thomas and Chris Perry to combine for 232 yards on the ground.

Nov. 8
With the offensive explosion the Wolverines have enjoyed this season, it's impossible to overlook the quality performance Hutchinson turns in week after week. Keep in mind that he could also prove to be a factor at RT in the NFL.

Nov. 1
Key performer up front for a Wolverine offensive line that in my opinion is the best in the country.

Sept. 12
OG Steve Hutchinson ranks as the top player at his position in the country.

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