The Unlikely Star: Why Michigan’s ‘Freak’ Long Snapper Matters More Than You Think
When you think of college football’s most athletic players, a long snapper probably isn’t the first position that comes to mind. Yet, here we are, talking about Gavin Magorien, a sophomore long snapper for the Michigan Wolverines, who’s made The Athletic’s prestigious ‘Freaks List.’ Personally, I think this is one of those stories that forces us to rethink how we define athleticism in football. What makes this particularly fascinating is that Magorien isn’t just a specialist—he’s a bona fide athlete with a background in wide receiver and defensive back, and his numbers are jaw-dropping: a 10-foot, 10-inch broad jump, 26 bench press reps of 225 pounds, and a 550-pound squat. If you take a step back and think about it, this isn’t just impressive—it’s revolutionary for a position often relegated to the shadows.
The Hidden Value of a ‘Freak’ Long Snapper
What many people don’t realize is that long snappers are the unsung heroes of special teams. They’re the linchpins of field goals and punts, and a mistake in their role can cost a game. Magorien’s inclusion on the ‘Freaks List’ isn’t just a novelty; it’s a testament to the evolving expectations of specialists in college football. From my perspective, this highlights a broader trend: as the game becomes faster and more physical, every position—even the ones we overlook—is being pushed to new athletic heights. Magorien’s strength and agility aren’t just personal achievements; they’re a sign of where the sport is headed.
The Michigan Context: A Program in Transition
Michigan’s football program has been under scrutiny since Kyle Whittingham took over, with strength and conditioning becoming a focal point. The fact that Magorien is the only Wolverine on the ‘Freaks List’ this year is both a point of pride and a reminder of the work still to be done. One thing that immediately stands out is the contrast between Magorien’s athleticism and the team’s overall representation on the list. In 2024, Michigan had four players on the list; now, they have one. This raises a deeper question: Is this a sign of regression, or is it simply a reflection of the program’s rebuilding phase? Personally, I think it’s the latter, but it’s a narrative that will follow the Wolverines into the season.
The Competition: Magorien vs. Crawford
A detail that I find especially interesting is the competition brewing between Magorien and Nico Crawford, the graduate transfer long snapper. Crawford is described as a ‘pro-type snapper’ with years of experience, while Magorien is the young, dynamic athlete. This isn’t just a battle for playing time—it’s a clash of styles and philosophies. What this really suggests is that Michigan’s special teams unit is in good hands, regardless of who starts. But it also underscores the pressure on Magorien to prove himself in a crowded field.
The Broader Implications: Redefining Athleticism
If there’s one takeaway from Magorien’s story, it’s that athleticism isn’t confined to the positions we traditionally celebrate. Long snappers, kickers, and punters are often afterthoughts, but they’re just as critical to a team’s success. What this really suggests is that the future of football might lie in the specialization and elevation of every role. In my opinion, Magorien’s inclusion on the ‘Freaks List’ isn’t just a win for him—it’s a win for every player who’s ever been told their position doesn’t require ‘real’ athleticism.
Final Thoughts: The Freak Factor
As we head into the 2026 season, Gavin Magorien’s story will be one to watch. Will he solidify his role as Michigan’s starting long snapper? Will his athleticism translate into game-changing moments? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: Magorien has already challenged our assumptions about what it means to be a ‘freak’ athlete. From my perspective, that’s the real victory here. It’s not just about the numbers or the rankings—it’s about redefining what we value in the game we love.
