Jake Long will return for senior year

Michigan offensive tackle Jake Long announced Thursday that he will return to school for his senior season.

“It’s best for me and for the team,” Long said. “I looked into it a little bit, but I never was close to leaving. I really want my degree, and we have unfinished business as a team.”

The first-team All-American was projected to be a top ten pick had he entered the 2007 NFL draft.

Michigan underclassmen decisions

Michigan juniors Alan Branch, Mike Hart, Chad Henne, Shawn Crable and Jake Long have drawn interest from NFL scouts and face the difficult decision on whether to go pro or return to Michigan. Both Henne and Hart told Michigan coach Lloyd Carr they will return for their senior season. However, Branch and Long have yet to announce their plans. Rumors say Branch will go pro and Long is still undecided. Most experts list both players in the their top 10 prospects for the 2007 NFL draft.