It’s time for a big reunion. Now that the Los Angeles Chargers are done with their Draft Day duties, it’s time to soak in some meet-and-greet sessions. And what is better than landing someone familiar? The first day of the Chargers’ mini camp witnessed the assembly of three men, all with links to the Michigan Wolverines. 

They include head coach Jim Harbaugh, Chargers DC Jesse Minter, and their latest recruit and young prodigy, Junior Colson. Even though Colson did not get enough attention in the City of Angeles initially, we must not forget his journey from Haiti orphanage to becoming a 2024 NFL Draft prospect.  

Colson fever back in Michigan 

The anticipation for Colson’s arrival at the Chargers was palpable, especially after the team had focused their attention on another promising player, Jordan Domineck. Finally, the moment arrived when Junior was warmly welcomed by the Chargers’ coaches. This was a significant moment for the player who had been a pillar of strength for Michigan’s linebacker position and the signal-caller for their top-ranked defense from the middle linebacker position.

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Colson was the fourth Wolverine who got a ticket to Los Angeles. He left a strong presence in Michigan since he played through two broken hands to finish 2023. His efforts were not wasted as he racked up enough tackles to help the Wolverines to the national title. His mangled hands did not hinder the All-Big Ten linebacker from finishing his season with 11 tackles against OSU, 10 takedowns against Alabama, and so on. However, his entry into Harbaugh’s Chargers was initially not so welcoming.      

Colson’s journey to glory

Even though they had already drafted Colson, Harbaugh and Co. extended an invite to Colorado prodigy Domineck for the rookie mini camp. Not just this, to make their invitation appear a grand gesture, the Chargers posted the poster showing the former Buffs prodigy at the front with the word “INVITED” written in bold white letters along with the signature “HOLLYWOOD” in the background. 

Colson’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. Adopted by his parents, Steve and Melanie Colson, from an orphanage in Haiti at the age of 9, he was brought to Tennessee. It was during this time that his dreams of professional football began to take shape. As Colson himself reflects, “What helped me get here is grit and the will of God. I think He has blessed me with so much potential and talent, and to be here, why waste it? I survived an earthquake, I survived both my parents passing away.”  

After his successful stint with the Michigan Wolverines, Colson has now made a significant transition to professional football, joining the Los Angeles Chargers. This move is not just a change of team but a stepping stone in his career. It’s intriguing to see how his past success, including the national championship, will influence his performance and give him an edge over his new teammate, Domineck.