Sep 14, 2024; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Arkansas State Red Wolves running back Zak Wallace (21) is tackled by Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jaishawn Barham (1) during the first half at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Michigan football moving Jaishawn Barham to EDGE could earn him a windfall in the millions

Originally posted on Michigan Wolverines on SI
By Jerred Johnson | Last updated Jan 25, 2025 1:23 PM ET

Michigan's Jaishawn Barham is a physically imposing young football player. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing in at 248-pounds with speed and athleticism of a player much smaller, he can take over a game from his linebacker spot almost at will. But heading into the 2025 season, Barham could be slated to take that size, speed, and athleticism to the EDGE rusher position.

A guy with his gifts going up against much bigger but slower tackles could create serious mismatch issues that opposing offensive coordinators will need to account for. When that happens, an entire playbook and scheme can be affected. Aside from helping Wink Martindale and the defense in Ann Arbor next year, the switch could benefit Barham to the tune of millions of dollars.

Spoke with Michigan DL coach Lou Esposito, who says DT Rayshaun Benny will be back next year. Also loves Jaishawn Barham’s versatility — could play linebacker and edge in 2025.
— Ryan Zuke (@ryanzuke) January 17, 2025

NFL teams place a higher premium on EDGE rush talent in relation to linebacker talent, and that premium comes with a higher value in the draft. Being selected higher would guarantee Barham money, the type of money that is life changing. Millions of dollars and guarantees are what separates a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd round pick.

With Barham showing that he has the game knowledge to run a defense at the linebacker position and then switching to EDGE, his draft stock will surely rise. In fact, Penn State did this with their top defensive player, Abdul Carter. The switch improved his draft stock over 22 points, and he is now firmly projected as a top ten pick in most NFL Draft mocks.

In many ways, Barham looks like a bigger version of what we saw from former Michigan EDGE Josaiah Stewart. The veteran edge rusher used his speed and leverage to cause nightmares for opposing offenses all year. If Michigan does complete this switch with Barham, look for him to cause complete chaos in the opposing teams backfield.

This article first appeared on Michigan Wolverines on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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