National Signing Day: Edge/DL McHale Blade signs with Michigan Football

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National Signing Day: Edge/DL McHale Blade signs with Michigan Football

The Wolverines have nabbed one of the top players in Illinois, as four-star edge rusher/defensive lineman McHale Blade has signed with Michigan Football.

The basics

  • Height: 6-foot-5
  • Weight: 245
  • Hometown: Chicago, Illinois
  • Ranking (247 composite): No. 384 overall, No. 42 DL, No. 10 Illinois

Recruiting journey

With an offer sheet from a lot of top programs, the Chicago native’s process came down to Michigan, USC and Notre Dame. Here is what he said about the program, via Allen Trieu of 247Sports: “They’ve got the best of both worlds from a great education to football where they’re known for developing defensive linemen. They’re D-Line U. They have a ton of guys in the NFL. I also know they have a big alumni base and are an extremely good school academically.” Those other contenders offer much of the same holistic experience as the Wolverines, but the recent success of the defensive line (Mason Graham, Kenneth Grant, Aidan Hutchinson, we could be here a while…) weighed heavily on his decision.

Scouting report

Based on Blade’s senior film (see below), there is a lot to like about him as a prospect. He mostly thrives as a five-technique, where he can use his explosive first step and combative arms to beat tackles with speed rushes. When tasked with going inside, he is athletic enough to slip through the offensive line and make plays in the backfield. His anticipation and ability to snuff out the run and pass are impressive and should combine nicely with all his raw talent.

Blade is also violent when engaged, whether it be against the run, pressuring quarterbacks or attacking ball-carriers. He has the power to play more of a three-technique role, though his burst is maximized on the edge. Blade will need more refined moves to dominate at the next level, but there is plenty of juice to his game. He should make for a fun player to develop for Esposito and crew.

Expectations

Michigan had a veteran-heavy defensive line this season, with guys like Derrick Moore, Jaishawn Barham, Rayshaun Benny, Damon Payne, Tré Williams and Ike Iwuannah all leaving. Trey Pierce, Dominic Nichols, Cam Brandt and Enow Etta will carry the load next season, so it feels like there will be opportunities for younger guys to shine, and Blade could quickly climb the depth chart if he stands out as an early enrollee this winter.

The film

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