Reactions, update from David Ojabo's pro day injury
Michigan football’s pro day was marred by a leg injury to pass rusher David Ojabo, who was going through positional drills in front of representatives for all 32 NFL teams. The injury was first reported by NFL Network’s Jeffri Chadiha.
A scary sight at [Michigan Football’s] pro day,” Chadiha tweeted. “Edge rusher David Ojabo sustained [an] injury in a pass rush drill. Went down clutching [his] left leg. Not sure if ankle or leg but he had to be helped off the field.”
TheWolverine.com spotted Ojabo departing Schembechler Hall on Friday afternoon. He was on crutches with a walking boot on his left leg and a wrap that stopped shortly before his knee. The injury severity and prognosis are still to be determined.
Ojabo is a first-round prospect on most prospect boards heading into the 2022 NFL Draft. His 11 sacks this season helped him earn first-team All-Big Ten honors. He was also an AP second-team All-American for his play last season.
Teammates react to Ojabo’s injury
Members of the local media were unable to step inside Al Glick Fieldhouse for workouts. However, Michigan players met with the press at the conclusion of their on-field work and meetings. Their days were the biggest topic of conversation, but Ojabo’s situation hung over like a dark cloud.
“It was tough,” safety Daxton Hill said. “I mean, I couldn’t believe it. Just how hard he’s worked, the injury he had — he was just coming off a great season.
“That freak injury kind of wasn’t expected at all.”
Michigan linebacker Josh Ross was one of the leaders of the defense in 2021 and lamented that Ojabo suffered the pro day injury.
“It was kind of tough to see what happened, just the angle I was at,” Ross said. “I was getting ready and warmed up to go. It was tough to see.”
Offensive lineman Andrew Stueber did not see Ojabo’s injury but said the vibe in the building was eerie until more information is known.
“[It was] a moment of silence,” Stueber said. “Everyone’s kind of waiting to hear what it is. I mean, it’s always tough. I think that’s one of my least favorite things about football, the injuries. Injuries and losing — both of those things kind of go hand-in-hand.”
Potential No. 1 overall pick and pass rush partner Aidan Hutchinson did not see what happened, either. He is confident Ojabo will bounce back and is hoping for the best.
“He was wincing in pain and stuff,” Hutchinson said. “I’m just hoping he’s all right.”
When is the 2022 NFL Draft
The 2022 NFL Draft is set for April 28-30 from Las Vegas, Nevada. The first round is set for April 28 with the second and third rounds scheduled for April 29. The draft concludes with the fourth through seventh rounds on April 30.
