Desmond Howard: The Michigan Wolverines’ #21 Youth College Career Desmond Howard, who wore the #21 jersey for the Michigan Wolverines, had a remarkable youth college career that showcased his talent and versatility as a wide receiver and return specialist. Born on May 15, 1970, in Southfield, Michigan, Howard was a standout athlete in high school and earned a scholarship to the University of Michigan. High School Career Howard played high school football at Southfield High School, where he excelled in various sports. His performance earned him a scholarship to the University of Michigan, where he became a star player. College Career at the University of Michigan Howard played for the Michigan Wolverines from 1989 to 1991, making significant contributions to the team’s success on the field. 1989 Season As a freshman in 1989, Howard played in 11 games, catching nine passes for 136 yards and two touchdowns. He also returned 13 kicks for 295 yards. 1990 Season In his sophomore year, Howard played in 11 games, catching 57 passes for 858 yards and nine touchdowns. He also returned 16 kicks for 472 yards and a score, along with four punts for 47 yards. His performance earned him second-team All-Big Ten and third-team All-American honors. 1991 Season During his junior year, Howard had a breakout season, playing in 11 games and recording 61 receptions for 950 yards and 19 receiving touchdowns. He also had one punt and one kick return for scores. His 23 total touchdowns (138 points) in 1991 made him the first pass-catcher in Big Ten history to lead the conference in scoring. Howard tied or set a dozen Michigan single-season records and five NCAA records. His performance earned him the Heisman Trophy, Unanimous All-American, first-team All-Big Ten, and conference MVP honors. Career Highlights • 1989: Freshman year, 9 receptions for 136 yards and 2 touchdowns, 13 kick returns for 295 yards. • 1990: Sophomore year, 57 receptions for 858 yards and 9 touchdowns, 16 kick returns for 472 yards and 1 score, 4 punt returns for 47 yards. • 1991: Junior year, 61 receptions for 950 yards and 19 touchdowns, 1 punt return and 1 kick return for scores, Heisman Trophy, Unanimous All-American, first-team All-Big Ten, conference MVP. Legacy and Impact Desmond Howard’s #21 jersey for the Michigan Wolverines is a symbol of his dedication and the impact he made during his youth college career. His time at Michigan was marked by significant contributions to the team’s offensive and special teams success. His Heisman Trophy win in 1991 solidified his status as one of the greatest college football players of all time. In 2010, Howard’s number 21 was retired by Michigan, and he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. Post-College Career After his successful college career, Howard was selected fourth overall in the 1992 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins. He played for several teams, including the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Oakland Raiders, but his most notable accomplishments came during his time with the Green Bay Packers. In Super Bowl XXXI, Howard made history by being named the game’s Most Valuable Player (MVP), primarily for his exceptional performance as a kick returner, which included a pivotal 99-yard kickoff return. In summary, Desmond Howard’s youth college career at the University of Michigan was marked by early success and the potential for even greater achievements. His #21 jersey is a testament to his hard work and the bright future ahead for both him and the Michigan Wolverines.