Michigan's Lewan returning for senior year

Jan 10, 2013 - 12:17 AM Ann Arbor, MI (Sports Network) - Michigan All-America offensive tackle Taylor Lewan announced Wednesday that he will remain with the Wolverines for his final season of eligibility in 2013.

Lewan, a redshirt junior, had been considered one of the top available prospects at his position for the upcoming draft. The 6-foot-8, 309-pound lineman earned Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year and first team All- America honors this past season.

"I came here four years ago as a kid from Arizona and had goals, but mostly individual goals," said Lewan. "I wanted to play my freshman year. I wanted to be an All-American left tackle. I wanted the opportunity to get to the NFL. I've done those things.

"But in these four years, I have realized it's so much more. There aren't words to describe what this great university, the program and its people mean to me. This is a special place, the legacies, the expectations, the responsibility of wearing the No. 77 jersey, the fans, the great coaches and teammates. It's an honor to be a part of this tradition and family, to wear that winged helmet and to play in the greatest stadium in the world, and I'm not ready for that to end."

Lewan has started 35 consecutive games at left tackle for the Wolverines, including the team's last 28 contests.

"To come back, to want to be a leader of this team, to improve, I think that tells you a lot about Taylor," said Michigan head coach Brady Hoke. "He's done a lot for this program, and I'm glad he feels there is unfinished business."