Michigan football LB Josh Ross declares for 2022 NFL Draft

Michigan Wolverines football linebacker Josh Ross has declared for the 2022 NFL Draft, he announced in an Instagram post Thursday evening. Ross had one year of eligibility remaining due to the NCAA deeming 2020 a ‘free year.’

“So many memories that I will never forget,” Ross began. “We reached heights that nobody but the TEAM believed, but it’s only the beginning. It’s been a five-year ride with ups and downs, grit and hard work. One thing I know is we set goals and a mission to how we as a TEAM wanted to be, put our head down and got the train rolling. What makes it so special is that every minute of it was worth it.

“Now it’s time for the next chapter! Thank you to my coaches, teammates and staff at The University of Michigan. I will cherish every moment I was able to wear the winged helmet and be apart of this special TEAM, our special TEAM. I Love You Michigan Family. Go Blue Forever.”

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In 2021, his fifth-year senior year, Ross led Michigan with 106 tackles, and added nine stops for loss, a half-sack, eight quarterback hurries and two pass breakups. He also added 14 pressures and laid seven hits on the quarterback, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF). The team captain was named third-team All-Big Ten.

He led the Wolverines in tackles each of the last season. Ross totaled 242 tackles, 15.5 stops for loss, 2.5 sacks, one interception and five pass breakups during his career.

Ross went out on top, helping lead Michigan to its first Big Ten title since 2004 and first-ever College Football Playoff appearance. He considered returning for a sixth year, but ultimately feels he’s leaving the program in more than capable hands.

“We did accomplish great things this year, and although it is a disappointing way to end it, we did do great things this year, and we can’t forget about that,” Ross said after Michigan’s loss to Georgia in the Orange Bowl.

“As far as the season, we had so many great moments with our group. Such a great culture that we’ve built here, and like [head] Coach [Jim] Harbaugh says, it’s just the beginning of what we are building and moving on to next year.”

Ross joins defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, outside linebacker David Ojabo, wide receiver Daylen Baldwin, defensive tackle Christopher Hinton, running back Hassan Haskins and defensive back Daxton Hill as Michigan players to leave eligibility on the table and opt for the NFL.

Watch for more Michigan roster movement at TheWolverine.com.