Former Michigan players Long, Woodley on All-Fundamentals team

Published 2:35 pm Sunday, December 26, 2010

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — Former University of Michigan football All-Americans Jake Long (2004-07) and LaMarr Woodley (2003-06) were named to the USA Football/NFLPA All-Fundamentals Team recently.

Long, the starting left tackle for the Miami Dolphins, was given the honor for the usage of his hands in pass protection. As a Wolverine, Long was a two-time All-American and was named Big Ten Conference Offensive Lineman of the Year twice. He was the No. 1 overall draft choice in the 2008 NFL Draft by the Dolphins and has been named to two NFL Pro Bowls in his first three years in the league.

Woodley, a starting linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers, received the honor for his ability to shed opposing blockers. In 2006, while playing for Michigan, Woodley won the Hendricks Award, given to the nation’s top defensive end, and the Lombardi Award, given to the nation’s top lineman. He was also the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and a first team All-American that season. Woodley was drafted in the second round by the Steelers in the 2007 NFL Draft and helped them win Super Bowl XLIII.

Twenty-six players (11 offense, 11 defense, 4 special teams) are chosen for the annual distinction based on an ability to consistently execute the fundamentals of their positions and for making a positive impact in their communities. The USA Football/NFLPA All-Fundamentals Team gives youth football players examples of how to properly play the sport and show concern for others off the field.

As part of the honor, All-Fundamentals Team players will designate a youth or high school football program that will receive a $1,500 equipment grant from USA Football.