Four Wolverine legends inducted into Michigan Sports Hall of Fame

The Michigan Sports Hall of Fame recently honored four outstanding former Michigan Wolverines, including former quarterback and head coach Jim Harbaugh.

Harbaugh will be honored on October 17 at the Sound Board Theater in Detroit along with Braylon Edwards, Jake Long and Larry Foote.

Other new additions include Tony Esposito, Cecil Fielder, Ivan “Pudge” Rodriguez, Deanna Nolan, Shawn Respert, Don Shane and Ken Holland.

The Michigan Sports Hall of Fame inductees are comprised of notable individuals from a variety of sports who have achieved fame and honor representing their teams, schools and the state of Michigan.

Let’s dive deeper into the remarkable journeys of the four Michigan football award winners and their legacies in the world of sports.

Braylon Edwards

Edwards is one of the most electrifying wide receivers in Michigan football history. During his time with the Wolverines from 2001-2004, Edwards displayed exceptional talent and became an indispensable part of the team. His senior year was particularly notable, when he set Michigan single-season records with 97 receptions, 1,330 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns. These accomplishments earned him the 2004 Biletnikoff Award, recognizing him as the nation’s best receiver.

Edwards’ college successes translated seamlessly to the NFL when he was drafted third overall by the Cleveland Browns in 2005. He continued to showcase his playmaking skills throughout his professional career and was named to the Pro Bowl in 2007. In addition to his success on the field, Edwards continued to be involved in philanthropy, supporting numerous charitable causes and making a positive impact on the community.

Larry Foote

Foote’s tenure at Michigan from 1998 to 2001 was marked by his tireless defense and leadership. As a linebacker, Foote was instrumental in bolstering Michigan’s defense, culminating in him being named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in 2001.

Foote’s prowess on the field caught the attention of the NFL and led to him being selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fourth round of the 2002 NFL Draft. His professional career was equally successful, capped by two Super Bowl victories with the Steelers in 2006 and 2009. After his playing career, Foote transitioned into coaching, where he continues to pass on his knowledge and passion for the game to younger athletes.

Jim Harbaugh

Harbaugh’s legacy at Michigan is multifaceted and includes his accomplishments as a player and coach. As quarterback of the Wolverines from 1983-86, Harbaugh led the team with skill and determination. His final season was particularly notable, when he led Michigan to the Rose Bowl and earned All-American honors.

After a successful college career, Harbaugh was selected in the first round of the 1987 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears. His NFL career spanned 14 seasons, after which he moved into coaching. He returned to Michigan in 2015, where he played a key role in revitalizing the program and leading the team to the national championship last season.

His dual role as a celebrated player and influential coach underscores his deep connection to Michigan football and his rightful place in the Hall of Fame.

Jake Long

Jake Long’s tenure at Michigan from 2004-2007 was marked by pure dominance on the offensive line. A two-time All-American and two-time Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year, Long was a cornerstone of Michigan’s offensive line. His exceptional blocking and leadership skills paved the way for numerous offensive successes during his time with the Wolverines.

Long’s outstanding college career led to him being selected first overall in the 2008 NFL Draft by the Miami Dolphins, a testament to his talent and potential. Over the course of his professional career, Long was named to the Pro Bowl multiple times and established himself as one of the best offensive linemen in the league.

The induction of Edwards, Foote, Harbaugh and Long into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame is a tribute to their remarkable contributions to Michigan football. As they join the ranks of Michigan’s greatest sports personalities, their legacies will continue to influence the future of Wolverine football.