Illinois's Profile for Michael Hoomanawanui

Pronounced with seven syllables: "uh-oh-man-OW-uh-NEW-ee," Michael is a 2006 graduate of Central Catholic H.S. in Bloomington, IN where he sneaked away from the Hooisers and before that was named a Chicago Tribune first-team All-State performer, a Chicago Sun-Times first-team All-Stater, a PrepStar All-Midwest Region pick, and a Champaign News-Gazette All-State slection. Michael was 3-star recruit coming out and was ranked as the No. 40 tight end in the country by Rivals.com. He made 50 receptions for 843 yards and 12 touchdowns as a senior and also led team with 139 tackles and eight sacks on defense. Michale lettered in basketball during freshman, sophomore and junior years.

At Illinois, Michael reshirted as a true freshman, then collected 5 balls for 64 yards and two TDs as a sophomore in 2007. In 2008, he earned honorable mention All-Big Ten honors by both the media and coaches while playing in all 12 games and starting eight at tight end. He gathered in 25 balls for 312 yards and 2 TDs. In 2009 he caught 10 balls for 114 yards with no TDs.

Big target. Solid in-line blocker who excels in this area. Can slip off the line and down the seam quickly. Strong hands and can rip the ball away from defenders. Massive for a TE, and sub-4.80 at his size is a very unusual thing. Has been fairly productive in a option-oriented offense.

Average ups. Not a real fluid guy out in the openfield. Overshadowed by Graham and and Moeaki in the Big Ten. Production as a pass-catcher has not improved year to year.

Solid in all phases,so middle of the draft seems appropriate for a strong-blocking TE without eye-popping speed or production numbers as a receiver.

Your Projected NFL Draft Round: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Undrafted

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