As a potential first-round draft pick, Mayfield certainly belongs in Michigan’s MVP conversation, even though he won’t stuff any stat sheets as an O-lineman. Even if he doesn’t ultimately win team MVP, Mayfield could end up being the most important player. LB Cam McGroneCameron McGrone #44 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates a fourth quarter sack against the Iowa Hawkeyes at Michigan Stadium on October 05, 2019 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. DE Kwity PayeKwity Paye #19 of the Michigan Wolverines tries to sack Peyton Ramsey #12 of the Indiana Hoosiers at Michigan Stadium on November 17, 2018 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Then they would both be candidates for team MVP.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. - Jim Harbaugh answered questions Monday as Michigan football prepares for this weekend's season opener against Middle Tennessee State. Competition continues at field goal kickerAs of five days before the season opener, Michigan still doesn't have a starting place kicker. An injury at fall camp delayed the start of his 2018 season, and he never got back in the flow of the offense. Ronnie Bell is most improved offensive contributorOf all the players who contributed on offense last season, Harbaugh believes Ronnie Bell has improved the most heading into 2019. He's going to play and work into that safety position, but he's really done extremely well."

That means Michigan's best player could come from just about anywhere. Last season, Devin Bush, Chase Winovich and David Long were clearly among the team's best players. There's no guarantee Runyan will even be the best player on Michigan's veteran offensive line, but whoever is will be in consideration for the team's best player. By the end of the year, it wouldn't be a surprise if he's one of the team's best defenders. DE Aidan HutchinsonLast season: 15 tackles, 1.5 tackles for lossIf Paye doesn't end up as Michigan's best edge rusher, it might be Aidan Hutchinson.