Breaking: Michigan TE2 for the 2024 season is confirmed

Colston Loveland is not only Michigan’s number one tight end, but also one of the finest in the nation.

However, with AJ Barner heading to the NFL, the Wolverines’ TE2 spot is up for grabs. Marlin Klein is one of the players that will compete for that slot and greater playing time.

Klein’s third season in a Michigan uniform will begin in 2024; he has only one career catch to yet, but he is expected to make many more this autumn. Teammates and coaches are gushing about his skill set.

On Monday afternoon, fellow Michigan tight end Max Bredeson stated that Klein has been “great” this spring.

“With AJ gone, there is a space to fill. “Me and Cole (Loveland) have been doing everything we can with him, and he’s been growing like crazy,” Bredeson added. “He’s a monster athlete, as you’ve heard, and he’s just filling those shoes on a daily basis.

Klein possesses the physical attributes to be a standout tight end. The Cologne, Germany product measures 6-foot-6, weighs 250 pounds, and plays with speed and brawn.

“Marlin is the fastest tight end, probably the strongest tight end, biggest tight end, so he’s got it all there,” Loveland said in January. “He’s done a great job this spring of taking that next step — actually starting, real playing time, and he’s just embraced it and done a damn good job in practice.”

This spring, Klein has a new tight ends coach, Steve Casula. Casula, like Bredeson and Loveland, holds a high opinion of Klein.

“Marlin is extremely talented and good. If you’ve spent any time with him, you’ll know he’s a terrific guy who enjoys football and possesses a variety of skills,” Casula stated in February. “I couldn’t be more excited to teach him, and I’m extremely excited about the development he’s made since coming here, and will continue to make. I think he’s going to have a great spring, man.”

With Michigan losing a tight end in Barner and receiving possibilities in Roman Wilson and Cornelius Johnson to the NFL Draft, the offense will seek for new playmakers to step up in the passing game this fall. If Klein develops into a dangerous receiving option as a TE2, Michigan could do a lot of damage in two tight end settings with him and Loveland flying across the field.

Klein will be a player to keep an eye on at Michigan’s Spring Game on April 20.