Jim Harbaugh teed off on an ESPN commentator earlier this week based on televised speculation that Michigan All-American cornerback Jourdan Lewis could have been suspended for the team's opener against Hawaii. While Harbaugh brushed this off later in the week while acknowledging that Lewis was banged up, one of the nation's best defensive players will also be absent for Michigan's second contest against Central Florida.
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but looks cool pic.twitter.com/Ldg8jYVc3F
— Brandon Justice (@BrandonJustice_) September 10, 2016
Harbaugh indicated this week that Lewis was "close to playing", but since he declined to release any specific information about his injury, we are left to speculate as to the severity of the ailment. Against the likes of Hawaii and Central Florida, Michigan can afford to be extremely careful with a premium player like Lewis, but after a week in which he was dressed, seeing him out of uniform is not the most encouraging sign.
It is entirely possible that Harbaugh will open up about Lewis and the injury following the game, but considering his track record with the media and releasing information, it seems highly unlikely. Now, Michigan fans are left to wonder when Jourdan Lewis will make his 2016 season debut, and even when he does, there will be at least some doubt about his overall health and readiness.