Penn State wide receiver Chris Godwin, Northwestern running back Justin Jackson and Ohio State quarterback J.T. Barrett will lead a loaded group of Big Ten playmakers in 2016. The conference lost a lot of superstars to the NFL draft with the departure of leading receiver Aaron Burbridge, leading rusher Ezekiel Elliott and top-producing quarterbacks Nate Sudfeld and Connor Cook. But these 10 players are set to lead the way for the league’s most explosive offenses this fall. This list kicks off with the Big Ten’s best tight end. Jake Butt was phenomenal for Michigan as a junior last season, hauling in 51 receptions for 654 yards (ranking first among Big Ten tight ends) to complement three touchdowns. He was at his best against Rutgers, when he caught four passes for 102 yards, highlighted by a career-best 56-yard reception. His play was so good, in fact, that he had a decision to make regarding an early departure for the NFL draft. It didn’t take him that long to decide, however, as he announced his return to the Wolverines in December. “My heart and soul is with Michigan, and I’m excited to return for my senior year and play for the most historic university and the greatest coaches in college football,” Butt posted on Twitter. “And to go into battle another year with my friend and teammates.” His return will be a huge boost to a passing attack that also returns top wide receivers Jehu Chesson and Amara Darboh…
Continue Reading: Big Ten Football: Ranking 10 Best Playmakers for 2016
